CONSERVATION TIPS 

As people get ready to plant new landscaping, put in their gardens or ready their lawns for spring, there are a variety of things that can be done now to use less water later this spring and summer:

·         Plan first, plant second - Draw a scale picture of your home and yard. Consult a professional landscape architect, master gardener or local nursery for advice about putting water-efficient yard and gardening principles in place to save you time and money.

·         Smaller lawns - Lawns are the largest water user in most yards. Before planting, contact your local nursery to determine the proper variety of grass to use. Consider only planting lawns where they are truly needed, such as play areas.

·         Soil improvement - Determine your soil type and nutrient needs. Adding organic matter will improve overall soil quality and reduce water and fertilizer needs.

·         Water wisely - Use efficient watering systems such as sprinklers for grass and drip, spray or bubble delivery systems for shrubs and ground covers. Make sure your irrigation system is working properly and can be adjusted for weather changes.

·         Use mulch - Placing mulch over the soil will help cool the soil, reduce weed growth, slow erosion and minimize water evaporation.

·         Right plant, right place - Contact your local nursery, master gardener or home improvement center for information on low water-using and drought-resistant plants appropriate to our climate. Plants with similar water needs should be placed together to maximize water efficiency and minimize costs.

·         Maintenance - Regularly weed your yard and garden since weeds compete for the same water that your grass and plants use. This will save you time and keep your water bill low.

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