Preparing Your Garden for Spring

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Water is one of our most vital natural resources, essential for meeting our basic needs. Water conservation should be a top priority for everyone around the world, it powers our communities and nourishes our loved ones. This spring, as we prepare our gardens for the warm Texas sun, let’s make water conservation a part of our efforts. Here are some helpful tips to guide us in doing our part.

Native Plants

Looking for plants that can thrive during a drought? Consider planting native species. Native plants have deep root systems that extend further into the soil, making them drought resistant and better equipped for accessing groundwater. These intricate root systems break up compacted clay, allowing water to penetrate deeper into the soil. Additionally, they attract local pollinators, enrich the soil, and reduce runoff, helping to conserve water in the process!

Mulch

Mulch is an excellent way to reduce water usage in your garden this spring. It helps conserve soil moisture, meaning you’ll need to water your garden less often. Additionally, mulch protects your garden by preventing soil erosion, keeping your plants healthier and your soil intact.

Irrigation Tips

The most effective way to water your yard is by watering deeply and infrequently. This approach encourages a well-rooted lawn that relies on the water stored in the soil. Aim to provide your lawn with up to 1 inch of water as quickly as possible. 

If you use an irrigation system, split your watering time in half and schedule the second cycle an hour later to allow for maximum absorption. For best results, water between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. to ensure the water soaks into the ground and to minimize evaporation. Watering your lawn this way is especially important because of our dense clay soil, which absorbs water slowly and can lead to runoff into the streets. Overwatering or watering too frequently can oversaturate the soil, reducing its oxygen levels. This results in plants developing shallow root systems that are less drought-resistant.

By saving water, you’re conserving one of our most precious resources while preparing your garden for the hot Texas summer ahead. 


For more tips on lawn irrigation and water conservation, scan the QR code or click here(link is external).