8 tips for saving water in the garden
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The drought and water restrictions we are facing more and more regularly have major consequences for the maintenance of green spaces.
As these problems are set to persist and worsen, gardeners and enthusiasts will have to adapt. Reducing your water consumption will become a must, and we're here to help you anticipate this!
Here are eight ways to use water more efficiently in your garden:
1) Rainwater harvesting
In addition to being a natural way to water your garden, rain can be collected for delayed watering .
During periods of intense heat, water becomes scarce in nature. However, these periods are often accompanied by strong thunderstorms . It is therefore interesting to take advantage of these rare moments of rain to collect and store water .
The simplest method is to collect the water captured by your gutter system . In fact, all the water that falls on your roof is evacuated by a gutter network connected to the sewers and the gutter. This represents an aberration insofar as this water is healthy and clean .
To collect this water, simply place a bucket at the bottom of your gutter .
In order not to compromise the quality of the collected water, it is important to ensure the maintenance of your gutters by removing dead leaves , for example.
2) Recycling wastewater for irrigation
This method saves water and money, as some wastewater can be recycled to water your plants .
This is relatively simple to do. For example, you can use boiled water from cooking vegetables as a natural fertilizer . Once cooled, it contains vitamins and minerals essential for plant growth.
Instead of letting the water run while it heats up in the shower, you can fill buckets to use for watering!
Wastewater users should turn to natural, biodegradable products to protect soil integrity. Conventional household products are harmful to your plants and the environment.
This method is attractive because your water bill is based on your incoming water consumption. This means you use twice the water you paid for before it is finally returned to the treatment network.
3) Drip irrigation
Traditional irrigation systems are sometimes inefficient and waste a lot of water due to runoff or evaporation . Drip irrigation optimizes watering by continuously providing small amounts of water to your plants . Its root system will then be maintained at the perfect humidity level !
In addition to being environmentally friendly, this method is very practical for everyday use. In fact, drip irrigation systems require little maintenance on your part. You can go on vacation without fear of finding your plant dried out upon your return!
4) Creation of a protective mulch
Up to 70% of water can evaporate from your soil during hot weather! Mulch is one of the best ways to prevent this problem.
Mulch is a thin layer of organic matter placed on the surface around your plants. It provides natural protection for the soil by retaining soil moisture and preventing weed growth. Mulch can be made from straw , leaves , wood chips or ash, for example.
In addition to protecting it from drought, mulch Protects your soil from heavy rains that leach and erode the soil . The decomposition of the plants in your mulch will fertilize your soil. Many beneficial insects and microbes that are necessary for your plant will feed on it.
5) Water early in the morning
The best time to water your garden plants is early in the morning . During the day, temperatures rise and evaporation increases. Watering in the morning gives plants a good reserve of water to cope with the heat of the day .
Avoid watering in the evening, especially on foliage, as nighttime temperatures are often insufficient to dry moisture on the leaves.
On the other hand, if your plant is suffering from excessive heat, do not hesitate to cool its roots , even in the middle of the afternoon.
6) Avoid simple terracotta pots
Terracotta pots have a certain charm, but offer very little watertightness . Indeed, their porosity causes water to gradually drain away from your plant. We recommend metal pots or pottery covered with a waterproof enamel . If you still want a terracotta pot, use it as a planter by placing a waterproof pot inside!
7) Check the soil moisture before watering
To avoid drowning your plant, it is advisable to regularly check its humidity level before watering it.
Hydrometers are therefore very useful garden tools to avoid water waste. This inexpensive tool allows you to determine the amount of water your plants need . It is easy to use and provides you with an accurate reading of your soil's moisture content in just a few seconds.
- A moisture level of 10-30% indicates that the soil is too dry and needs watering .
- 40-70% moisture means the soil is moist and no action is required .
- 80-100% humidity means your soil is too wet and you should avoid watering .
8) Water your plant sparingly
Overwatering is one of the cardinal sins of gardening! Not only does it waste water , but it can kill your plants or make them sluggish . Uncontrolled watering will cause your plants to only develop surface roots . This also makes them more vulnerable to drought stress.
Conclusion (+Bonus)
By implementing these 8 simple tips, you should significantly reduce your water consumption. Eco-friendly gardening is a fun way to get involved in sustainable development.
To help you go further in your daily life, we have a site to present to you! We particularly appreciated their range of eco-responsible hygiene items !
