OUTDOOR WATER CONSERVATION
By implementing a few new gardening practices, you can improve the health and appearance of your yard, saving time and money while doing something good for the environment. Conserve both water and money by giving your lawn and garden only what it needs. Consider these tips to make use of every drop of water:
Reduce Water Consumption
- Compost improves soil quality and helps it hold water.
- A thick layer of mulch around plants and shrubs helps retain soil moisture.
- Native plants have adapted to our soil and climate conditions; once established, they can thrive on rainfall alone.
- Choose the right plant for the site - consider the amount of sunlight, soil type, and pH your plants require.
- Use a soaker hose in the garden for deep, infrequent watering.
- Easy does it - 1" per week is enough to keep lawns healthy.
- Water in the early morning to reduce evaporation.
Reuse Rain Water
- Place a rain barrel under a downspout to collect rain water for future use.
- Plant a rain garden to help eliminate areas in your yard that collect rain.
Recycle Yard Waste
Use compost from yard waste and kitchen scraps to feed your lawn and garden. It's easy; use these ideas to get started:
- Select a location. While many gardeners choose to buy or make a compost bin, a hidden three-foot by three-foot area will do.
- Collect yard waste and kitchen scraps. Layer kitchen scraps between several thick layers of yard waste.
- Good yard waste material includes leaves, twigs, grass, and other plant clippings.
- Use kitchen scraps such as coffee grinds, egg shells, and vegetable peelings. Do not use meat or fatty foods.
- Keep the pile aerated and moist. If it dries out, add just enough water to moisten.
- Turn the pile with a large gardening fork to ensure an even decomposition and minimize odor.
- It will ready to use in four to six months. The finished product will be dark, moist, and finely textured.
- Use a light layer of compost in place of chemical fertilizer on your lawn. Work it into the soil around existing plants or use it to prepare your garden for new plantings.
- For more information see The Ohio State University Extension Services fact sheet on composting at
http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/1189.html