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Residents throughout the country are currently facing restrictions or bans on outdoor water use. When watering restrictions are imposed, here are a number of things homeowners can do to help their existing plants make the best use of water in the landscape.
Make certain plants have a generous supply of mulch over their roots. Three to five inches of mulch will help hold moisture in the soil and will prevent evaporation from the soil surface. Fine-textured mulches, such as pine straw, mini-nuggets and shredded hardwood mulch do a better job of conserving moisture than coarse-textured mulch. Apply mulch to as large an area as possible under the plant, remembering that the roots of established woody ornamentals extend two to three times the canopy spread.
Avoid practices that encourage new water-demanding growth. Fertilization is not wise during extended dry periods because fertilizers are chemically salts and can actually dehydrate the roots of plants. Routine pruning also stimulates new growth and should be avoided during dry periods.
When you water, use directional watering with the hand-held hose to apply water only to those plants that show signs of wilt will help conserve water. Priority should be given to newly planted trees and shrubs (those installed within the past four months). The water restrictions do not apply to new installations, and you may water more frequently but check with Sydney Water.
Plant drought tolerant plants – one of our highly skilled Horticulturists at Green Options would be happy to give you advice in your garden as to what plants to use. We would like to make clear that though some plants are drought resistant in the long run, during their first month or two they will still need constant watering until their roots become established. But after that time, they will be more drought-tolerant than other plants. |
