Drought Without Doubt

Many cities in north Texas have increased their water restrictions for this winter.  While the temperatures have cooled, it was a long hot brutal summer.  Our plant materials did not get the moisture they needed, even with proper irrigation.  Recent rains have helped plants recover, however a dry winter is forecast for the north Texas area.  While you may or may not live in an area with major water restrictions, we feel it is still wise to help conserve as much water as possible at all times.

It's important that you manage your landscape as this drought continues.  Water is a resource we can't replace!  Conserving water can save water and save you money in the future.  Outlined below are three actions steps to take NOW and three additional steps for future conservation, while keeping your landscape healthy.

NOW

1.     Change your irrigation controller to run no more than two days each week.  Most controllers have an interval program allowing you to do this.  Have your entire irrigation system inspected to make sure there are no leaks and it is working efficiently.

2.     Add soaker hoses around your foundation to ensure the moisture content stays consistent if you do not have an irrigation system.  Soaker hoses can be installed with timers so you don't have to remember to turn them off and on.

3.     Install or topdress mulch in your landscape beds.  Mulching helps hold moisture in the soil and reduces the amount you need to water.  Two inches of mulch provides great protection.  Be careful not to pile the mulch up on the crown or trunks of plants.

ADDITIONAL WATER SAVING STEPS

1.     Meet with a professional landscape designer to look at making changes in your landscape which will use less water.   Changing to native and adaptive plants, installing less seasonal color, adding perennial color will all help conserve water. 

2.     Renovate your irrigation system to use less water and run more efficiently.  Certain zones can be changed to drip irrigation, water conserving nozzles can be added, and separating zones based on water usage are all ways to improve your system's efficiency.  Only licensed irrigation professionals can review your system and let you know what changes you can make to save water and money.

3.     Install rain barrels and water catchment systems to capture rainwater now for hand watering later.  These are great for watering pots, seasonal color and other higher water use plants in your landscape. 

At Roundtree Landscaping, Inc. we are committed to conserving this important natural resource and look forward to working with you to save water, time, and money while keeping your landscape beautiful.