In June, several Valley cities issued water alerts, calling residents and customers to reduce their water use amid droughts throughout Arizona. The alerts are the first steps in city’s drought management plans.
Phoenix, Peoria, Tempe, Mesa and Scottsdale were among the group of cities that issued water alerts. None of them have required water cuts or restrictions, but most cities point that residents can conserve water starting with their home gardens and landscapes. Water is a limited resource in the desert, and it should be limited in a sustainable garden.
The Garden’s horticulture department compiled a few tips to help you conserve water in your landscape.
- Install a smart irrigation controller.
- Install a drip irrigation system when applicable.
- Use native and desert-adapted plants in your landscape palette.
- Harvest rain water for landscape use.
- Change the watering schedule on your controller by season.
- Fix and maintain your irrigation system on a regular schedule.
Applying the correct amount of water to your desert plants is key to having a sustainable landscape. Overwatering is a common mistake and can lead to other problems for your plants. Using the correct irrigation method will help you deliver the appropriate amount of water while minimizing waste and allowing your plants to flourish.
How and when should i water my desert plants?
Visit desertlandscapeschool.org/ to access complimentary watering videos from Desert Landscape School. Full and introductory courses are also available online or onsite.
