Planning your garden with conservation in mind
Spring is approaching fast, and this is the time when many Moapa Valley residents start planning to put in a spring garden. Gardening is a great way to spend time outside, reduce stress levels and feel the accomplishment of producing something beneficial on your little patch of paradise.
But in our desert region, water conservation should be an essential part of planning a garden. Limiting water use doesn’t mean you have to give up growing your favorite vegetables or flowers. With planning and smart techniques, a water-wise garden can thrive, even in the toughest desert conditions.
Here are seven simple water conservation tips you can use in planning for your garden:
- Add organic material to the soil: This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to conserve water. Organic matter, like compost, improves the desert soil’s structure enabling it to hold more moisture. So start a compost pile or purchase bagged compost to mix into garden beds to make the soil more water-smart.
- Use mulch to reduce evaporation: Mulching is important for reducing water loss and keeping the soil cool in our hot temperatures. It can also help to suppress weeds which compete for water. Best mulching materials include straw, wood chips and even newspaper laid down around plants in layers.
- Use drip irrigation: Drip systems deliver water directly to the plant roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff. You can install drip lines under mulch to maximize efficiency. Choose emitters that match the water needs of your plants. And use a timer to automate watering during the cooler parts of the day.
- Change your planting style: Traditional rows can sometimes waste water. Planting in blocks can conserve moisture. Block planting can allow leaves to create shade that reduces evaporation. Also, the watered area is more concentrated, reducing waste.
- Group plants by similar watering needs: Planning your gardening space in advance with plants grouped by water needs ensures efficient irrigation and prevents overwatering. Use a root depth chart to determine how much water each section of plants will need. Deep-rooted plants like tomatoes need infrequent but deep watering. Shallow-rooted crops like lettuce benefit from more frequent, light watering.
- Keep your garden weed free: Weeds compete with your vegetables and flowers for water and other nutrients, making them an unnecessary drain on resources. Hand-pull weeds regularly or use a hoe to remove them before they establish roots. Mulch heavily to suppress weed growth.
- Water during cooler times of the day: Watering at the right time significantly reduces evaporation and makes sure that more water reaches the plants’ roots. The optimal time for watering is between 9 pm and 6 am to maximize absorption and minimize evaporation. Use a timer on your system for consistent watering during these hours.
With water being a precious resource in the desert, every drop counts. By adopting these practices, you can save money on water bills, create a resilient garden and contribute to conservation efforts.