Great Garden Water Saving Tips

It is estimated that 6.5 percent of the energy used in the state of California goes toward pumping and treating water, and approximately half of a typical home’s water consumption is from outdoor uses. Water conservation is such a large concern in California that in 2008, then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger called for a 20 percent reduction in per-person water use in urban areas by 2020. You may be wondering how you can meet that goal without sacrificing your landscaping. Luckily, as certified California green plumbers, we have some great garden water saving tips for you.

Garden Water Saving Tip #1

One recommendation is to carefully consider the plants you are placing in your yard. You can decrease your need for watering by selecting drought-resistant, low-water plants. You can find perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses, trees, vines, turf and even ground covers that meet those criteria. Your local nursery should be able to tell you more about what is best suited for your area.

Garden Water Saving Tip #2

Placement of greenery in your yard is also important. First, consider limiting the amount of yard space dedicated to grass, as lawns require large quantities of water. Next, separate your low-water plants from your water-loving plants so you can concentrate water use where it is most needed. You can also place thirstier plants at the bottom of a slope so they are better positioned to absorb water run-off. If you are going to install new plants, do so in the fall or winter months, when less water will be required to help them grow.

Garden Water Saving Tip #3

Finally, water wisely. Water your plants at dawn or dusk, times when evaporation will be at a minimum. Since garden hoses can use up to 10 gallons of water per minute, use them with a nozzle that will let you direct the spray only exactly where needed. If you use a sprinkler system, check it regularly for hidden leaks.

Barker & Sons plumbing is proud to be Orange County’s certified green plumbing company. We are committed to doing our part for the environment and educating our customers on what they can do to save water and energy.

Call us at (714) 630-8766 or contact us online to find out how we can help you uncover even more garden water saving tips. One of our green plumbers can even install an energy-efficient tankless water heater or solar water heating system for you!