Water-Wise Gardens

Introduction | Planning and Design | Planting a New Garden
Soil Conditioning | Watering Requirements
Limiting Grassy Areas | Fertilizers
Pesticides and Herbicides | Plant Selection
Gardening with Native Plants

Introduction

Every gardener should be aware of the need to use water more efficiently and to protect our water sources by limiting pollution. With increased demands on water supplies, there's a greater focus on conserving water. Water can no longer be considered a limitless resource.

The Water-Wise Garden

The information on these pages will help you make water-efficient and environmentally friendly gardening choices.

The water-wise garden can range from yards full of perennials and organic mulch to dry creek beds with only a few drought-tolerant plants. It can include meadows of wildflowers or terraced patios. Only the thoughts and imagination of the gardener limit the possibilities and the appeal of the water-wise garden.

Seven Key Elements of Water-Wise Gardening

A successful water-wise garden project begins with a carefully thought-out plan. Consider the following points:

1. Planning and Design
2. Planting a New Garden
3. Soil Conditioning
4. Watering Requirements
5. Limiting Grassy Areas
6. Fertilizers
7. Pesticides/Herbicides
8. Selecting Plants