Save on Water This Summer!

Sure, there are loads of ways to save water in the home, but did you know there are also a bunch of ways you can save water in your garden?

Try these helpful tips to keep your water bill down during these hot, hot months:

• Use a lot of native shrubs in your landscaping. Native plants generally require less watering than non-native plant species. (As a bonus, you're helping to preserve the historic landscape of your community.)
• Use mulch around trees and plants to reduce evaporation and help control those pesky water-stealing weeds. You can also use pine straw, straw, or dead leaves. Many people like to use rocks in their gardens, but you have to be careful. Many plants are sensitive to how hot rocks will get in the summer and you could end up burning your plants.
• Water your garden or lawn ONLY in the evening or the early morning hours. this will let the plants absorb all the water they need, without losing much to evaporation.
• Get a drip irrigation system, so that you're only watering where you need water. Sprinklers tend to water everything, including sidewalks, steps, and sides of houses. A drip irrigation system is better for your plants and for your pocketbook.
• And, of course, make sure you don't have any leaks in your outdoor faucet, garden hose, or irrigation/sprinkler system!

from shutterstock.com