If you adore spending time in the outdoors, a happy green garden is probably important to you. Getting and keeping it that way takes a lot of water, unfortunately. As a water-scarce country we all need to do our bit to conserve this natural resource. Read on as we share five tips to save water while still having a lush, green garden.

Tip 1: Use a rain metre

A rain metre might sound very old school. However, if managed properly this tool can help you monitor exactly how much natural rainfall your garden is receiving. Stop guessing. If your garden has received about 20mm in the past seven days, you don’t need to water at all.

Tip 2: Target specific plants with a watering can

It’s tempting to switch the sprinklers on for the more thirsty plants or pots in your garden but rather target them with a watering can. Walking around with a watering can in your garden can also be a more therapeutic experience and healthier for you. The best time of the day to water is early morning or in the evening when the earth is cool.

Tip 3: Plant water-wise and indigenous plants and trees

There is a trick to securing a thriving garden all year round. Do you want to know what it is? Simply select plants that naturally thrive in your climate. Native South African plants, such as succulents, agapanthus, and certain species of aloes, are adapted to dry conditions and need far less water. Indigenous trees like the wild olive or karee are excellent for providing shade and are highly drought-tolerant.

Tip 4: Mulch

In addition to choosing the right plants, mulching your garden can drastically reduce water evaporation. Organic mulches like bark chips, straw, or compost help keep moisture in the soil, protecting it from the harsh summer sun. Mulching also improves soil health, allowing it to retain more water over time.

Tip 5: Harvest rainwater

It could be a great idea to invest in a tank to harvest rainwater from your roof. This way you can water your most essential plants during dry spells guilt-free.

Hack: These tanks can be quite expensive, so if you can’t afford it, try to place a large bucket beneath each gutter and harvest water this way.

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