The Third Principle of Xeriscaping

Irritation Irrigation

So how can watering your garden, reduce water use in your garden?  Well boys and girls, it is time to learn what the third principle of Xeriscaping is all about!

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The answer is that it is how you water your garden that can reduce the amount that you use.  Overwatering, using water inefficiently and indescriminately are the main problems that can be solved by irrigating wisely.  The goal is to give the plants what they need without wasting water.

The Rain in Spain Falls Mainly on the Plains

Quite Literally

As discussed, the type of soil present greatly affects how quickly the water will be absorbed, and how quickly it will drain away.  Clay soils, where the pores are small, will hold the water longer; however, it takes longer for the water to be absorbed, and if there is a slope present, the water will simply run off.  Sandy soils have a better chance of absorbing the water, but aren't able to hold it for long.  The amount of water that soil will absorb depends on how long the water falls.  A hard and fast summer storm will do little to quench the thirst of your vegetation.  Long and light is the ideal weather.

Be aware of factors such as slope, and local conditions to determine how fast the ground is drying out.  Sun, wind, temperature and local humidity all play a role in how often you need to water.  If you are constructing a garden, use these natural zones to help establish your hydrozoning.  Use or modify the slopes to direct the flow of water into areas that need it, or create terraces to eliminate runoff. 

These practices will maximize the value of every rainfall, reducing the need for additional irrigation.  Catching rain in barrels or containers is also a good practice; this water would likely be lost to the storm sewage system, and eventually the nearest river.  Keeping standing water is a mosquito hazard, unfortunately, so this may not be feasible.

Artificial Water

The best time to water your garden is during the early morning.  This will reduce the volume of water lost to evaporation, as temperature, sun, and air movement are minimal, and humidity is high.  Morning can be a high use time, especially for city neighbourhoods, as the population are getting up for work, and showering.  It is a good idea to know the peak usage times in your area, as well as the capacity of your water supply.  It is possible that the supply is insufficient for both internal and external application, and needs to be staggered.  Using a timer can prevent the need to rise before the sun.

It's hard to see the lake for the trees.

Try to apply water to the soil and not the foliage, as the roots have a better chance of absorbing it there.  Certain plants of the garden can require more water than others, especially when they are young and in the process of establishing themselves.  Trees in the middle of lawns, for example, can experience drought while the grass thrives. 

Irrigation System vs. Hose and Sprinkler

So, is it worth it to install an irrigation system?  These systems are designed to apply optimum amounts of water to specific zones; no more, no less.  They can easily be installed to separate turf and landscape, which have different requirements.  They can even be run on timer programs that can be changed as the season progresses, and the water needs of the plants change.  They take alot of the guesswork away from watering your garden.  Rain gauges exist, that will override the program if there is precipitation.  If it is possible, installing a system is a good idea.  If not, be aware of the different water requirements and zones of your garden, and aim for early morning.