A big part of gardening is watering, of course.
Over a growing season,your water billcan come to hundreds, even thousands of dollars.
Here are a variety of simple ways to lower your garden water bill while keeping your garden thriving.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
Then, do the math.
you’re able to find the price your water company chargeson a previous bill.
A simple way to measure that inch is with a small watertight container set out on your lawn.
Credit: Brie Passano
Butmulch also provides a protective layerthat prevents soil from drying out too quickly.
“It reduces evaporation and protects the soil from drying out from heat and strong winds.”
“Compost reduces soil crusting, helping water absorption into the soil,” explains Randaci.
“The addition of compost also helps water to move more readily through the soil.”
You canadd compost regardless of the season, but it’s especially helpful in the warmer months.
“The high-water holding capacity helps during summer droughts and reduces plant stress,” he adds.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Water in the morning
On busy days, you might forget to water.
But thewhen you water your lawn and other plants make a difference.
“Watering the garden in the morning is best,” says Randaci.
Credit: Bill Stites
If your schedule makes it tricky to water in the morning, the evening is your second-best option.
Consider reducing the size of your lawn, replacing it with low-water plants or permeable gravel.
The benefits of micro-irrigation include reducing water consumption, soil erosion, and weed growth, he adds.
“It encourages root systems to grow deep,” where soil tends to dry out more slowly.
Watering your plants in this manner may take some time to figure out, because there are many variables.
Cap lines or repair sprinkler heads as needed.
Choose drought-tolerant plants
Of course, not all plants need the same amount of water.
Another option is to look for specific species that need little water.
The rainwater is then stored in abarrel or container to useduring times of little to no rainfall.
Irrigating with rainwater will offset watering costs and may even qualify you for additional tax incentives, says Randaci.
Just as importantlyrainwater is entirely free, going a long way toward reducing your water bill.
