Landscaping

Basic Steps to Achieve Water Efficiency

Planning & Design

Landscape planning and design is a critical step in water-wise landscaping Zone your garden into areas of high moisture use, moderate use and drought-tolerant use. TIP: Plants native to our area have lower water requirements, fewer pest problems and need less fertilizer than many imported plants.

Soil Improvement

Soil preparation is one key to success. Evaluate planting soil to determine soil additives and improve water-holding capacity. Add organic matter to soils to boost nutrient content. TIP: To increase plant health and conserve water, till in four inches of organic materials around flowers and shrubs, but not around trees and turn areas.

Practical Turf Areas

Turf is beautiful but it also requires more water and maintenance than any other part of the landscape. Use only where necessary. Consider replacing some turf with patios, mulched areas, ground covers or other low-water users. Select a turf grass that is adapted to the site and is drought-resistant. TIP: Grass that grows tall will grow slower and need less water.

Appropriate Plant Selection

Select plants that fit the site and the environmental stresses. Zone according to water needs. Also consider growth rates, maturation size, and temperature tolerances when selecting and locating plants. TIP: Keep your planted areas clear of weeds, which soak up water.

Efficient Irrigation

Make every drop count by watering efficiently to prevent runoff or evaporative loss. Let plants tell you when they need water.

If mandatory restrictions are in effect, or whenever possible, use groundwater wells for irrigation. Sprinkler or drip-irrigation systems can save water and promote healthy turf, trees, shrubs and flowers. TIP: New trees should have a shallow ditch around them to hold water.

Use of Mulches

Mulches hold in moisture while reducing weed growth, cooling the soil, slowing erosion and providing landscape interest. Replace turf with mulched planting beds to lower your water use. Use organic, non-matting mulches such as pine straw, pine bark mulch, shredded hardwood bark or cypress mulch. TIP: Drip irrigation is more efficient than overhead sprinklers.

Appropriate Maintenance

Keep your plants healthy. Once they are established, apply less nitrogen. To avoid plant stress, mow properly, thin shrubs, and control weeds and pests. Learn how and when to water, efficient ways to water, and the water needs of Virginia's ornamental plants. TIP: For the best water for plants, capture rain with a barrel at your down spout. Remember to cover the barrel to avoid mosquitoes.

Additional Information