5 Ways to Make Your Garden Water Wise

Native plants are the secret to a lush, low-fuss garden that saves water, feeds pollinators, and makes your neighborhood a little more magical.

Native plants are suited to our local climate, soils, and wild creatures that call our community home. That biological advantage makes them great gardening options for water conservation efforts.

1. Native Plants Use Less Water

Once established, native varieties need far less supplemental watering than other ornamentals. Regular waterings during the first three summers help plants develop strong, deep root systems. After that, most native plants thrive on spring rainfall and only need watering on the hottest summer days.

2. Plant Trees for Water Efficiency

For the biggest water efficiency wins, consider adding native trees to your planting plan. Their expansive root systems work like natural sponges, absorbing and slowing stormwater runoff, reducing soil erosion, and even cooling the surrounding air.

3. Rely on Rainfall

Early spring is a great time to get your plants in the ground. Natural rainfall does the watering for you, and it gives roots the consistent moisture they need without increasing your water usage.

You can also plant in late fall. This follows the natural grow cycle for seeds, and for cuttings, their roots can grow strong over the winter and be ready to flower in the spring.

4. Increase Biodiversity

When building out your native garden, variety is your friend. Increasing biodiversity through mixing native grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees creates layered root systems at different depths to better absorb water and keep pollinators happy.

5. Choose Seeds over Cuttings

When sourcing plants, choose seeds over cuttings if possible. Seeds preserve greater genetic diversity, which means plants are heartier and better able to adapt to location conditions.

Your garden, however big or small, has the power to conserve water and improve the habitat of our community. Happy planting!