Did you know that each Sydney household uses between 175,000 and 300,00 litres of water per year, with a significant chunk going towards maintaining their gardens? With the Northern Beaches experiencing hotter summers, lower rainfall, and potential water restrictions, creating a beautiful garden that thrives without wasting water is more important than ever.
HortCulture promotes sustainable gardening practices in the Northern Beaches and below we share our top tips for water-wise garden care.
Garden Challenges In The Northern Beaches
We are so lucky to live in this beautiful coastal location, but it does come with some challenges when trying to maintain a beautiful, lush garden. The soil is sandy, and water drains away quickly. Then, our boiling hot summer days ensure rapid evaporation of whatever moisture is left.
Add to that water restrictions and the rising cost of water. All these factors make it essential to consider making your garden more water-wise for the sake of the environment and your wallet!
Water Saving Tips
Mulching
Adding compost and other organic materials to your sandy soil makes it healthier and better able to retain water. Applying a layer of mulch on top reduces the need for watering.
Mulching materials include bark, wood chips, leaves, straw, and grass clippings. These will reduce the growth of weeds and, over time, decompose, adding more nutrients to the soil.
Timing of Watering
Watering early in the morning or in the evening gives roots the best chance to absorb as much moisture as possible before it can be lost to evaporation in the hotter parts of the day. Watering longer and more deeply but less frequently, is most beneficial to your garden.
Plant Choices
The key to success is planting the most suitable plants for your garden. Go for indigenous plants with good drought resistance. They will be naturally more suited to the environment, requiring less maintenance. Some good choices include:
- Eucalyptus
- Acacia
- Banksia
- Succulents
- Kangaroo paw
- Indigenous grasses
Irrigation Systems
For the most efficient water delivery to the right areas of your garden, consider installing an irrigation system. This can be operated manually or fully automated, depending on your budget. Carefully placed sprayers and drip lines will deliver just the right amount of water, exactly where it is most needed.
Contact HortCulture to find out how to make your property in the Northern Beaches more water-friendly with the right garden care. Let us help your garden thrive.