Use Water Wisely In the Lawn and Garden

Watch the clock:  Water lawns and landscaping before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m. to reduce evaporation.

Go native:  Select Maine native and drought-tolerant ground covers, shrubs, and trees for landscaping.  They will survive better during dry spells and require less fertilizer and pest control.

Design deliberately:  Layer plants to create shade for other plants that need it.  Group plants that need water while placing drought-tolerant species elsewhere.

Mulch it:  Mulch retains moisture, controls weeds, and improves the garden’s appearance.

Water wisely:  Water your garden less often but deeply, focusing on the root zones.  Use a drip-irrigation system or soaker hose to water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Mow wisely:  Set the mower blade to at least three inches.  Cutting the grass to a lower height leads to shallow roots and greater moisture loss.  Fertilizers and herbicides may increase the need for water on the grass.

Pass on grass:  A one-third acre lawn uses up to 170,000 gallons water each summer, according to the National Audubon Society.  Consider planting a groundcover instead, or replacing unused lawn with bricks or stones.  This keeps water in the garden and out of the roadway.

 Mix it up:  Composting organic matter into the soil helps it retain moisture.

Clean up:  Use a broom, not a hose, to clean decks, driveway, and walkways.