Being Water-Wise This Summer
Contributed by Jolene Ottosen for the Chaparral Green Thumbs
As I write this, I am looking out at a yard covered with a thick layer of March snow. While dealing with icy and snowy roads in late March isn’t a treat, this snow brings welcome moisture. Last summer we saw water restrictions in place that asked homeowners to only water their lawns once a week, on specific days correlating to their house number, and banned activities such as washing cars, buildings, or sidewalks. Hand watering (not using a sprinkler system) of gardens and other plants was, however, still allowed. As many expect similar restrictions for the coming summer, this column will look at some general tips to make your yard water-wise, regardless of whether restrictions are in place.
One of the biggest water consumers in your yard is your lawn. The City of Calgary recommends our lawns get an inch of water per week. This can be measured by placing something like a frisbee on the lawn under the path of the sprinkler. Watering should be done during the cooler parts of the day, preferably in the morning, to avoid losing moisture to evaporation. Evening watering also works; however, frequent evening dampness can lead to root fungus for some plants. In Calgary’s dry climate, I don’t think that is a huge concern, but it is something to consider. Our lawns should also be watered for longer periods, less often, to help promote a deeper root system that will allow the plants to reach for water in dryer periods. Lawns should also be cut no shorter than three inches to help shade the roots from the sun. With other plants, watering by hand is the most economical way to water, either with a hose or a watering can, as you have more control over the water and can get it right where it is needed. Watering longer and less often applies here as well.
Rain barrels are a great investment to conserve water. The city sells basic models for about $80, and you can buy ones that allow a series of barrels to be connected. Fancier versions can also be purchased at garden supply centres. If you purchase a rain barrel with a faucet, make sure you get a stand as well for you will need the barrel to be elevated to access the spout easily. The higher you raise your barrels, the more pressure you will have. If you are planning to use a hose, you will need the barrels to be quite high to create enough pressure. As rainwater runs off the roof it is not recommended to use the water for edible plants, although first flush systems can be installed, making the water safer.
Mulch is another powerful tool to fight water evaporation, keeping the water in the ground instead of in the air. At our community garden, we rarely water the plants on the berm now that we have a thick layer of mulch. A two-to-four-inch layer of mulch is recommended, topping it up every few years to account for natural decomposition. As a bonus, mulch also helps prevent weeds and as it decomposes it provides fertilizer for your plants, leading to a stronger, more drought-tolerant root system.
Another way to be water-wise is to plant native species. The prairies are hot and dry so plants native to this area already know how to survive in this climate using only what nature provides. Several nurseries in Calgary and the surrounding area specialize in this type of plant and can give knowledgeable advice on what plants would best meet your needs.
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