Doing our part

Between a nearly non-existent snowfall last winter and scorching temperatures in May, many of us around Utah are facing some of the toughest irrigation conditions we’ve seen in recent years. And as you might expect, our water districts are stressing the need for water conservation as we squeeze the most out of what’s available.

Maybe it’s time to rethink your landscaping. Adding tiled sitting areas and beds of native flowers and tall grasses require half as much water as grass. While there’s probably not much use in rolling out the rain barrel, anything’s possible!

Here are a few more ways to make use of our limited resources:

• When planting flowers, vegetables, and trees, first shake the dirt from the root ball and then carefully separate the tendrils before placing it in the ground. This encourages the roots to spread out, creating a wider net for the water that comes its way. When you do water them (preferably early in the morning) use short, repeated intervals. If you send too much water at a time over a sunbaked ground, whatever isn’t immediately absorbed runs off and away from the plants you meant to nourish. This applies to your sprinkler system, too. Adjust it to turn on for short, repeated intervals.

• Create a basin around your plantings, mounding the outer edge to capture and direct the water to its roots. It’s also a great way to use the water collected from your air-conditioning dispensers. Pour the gathered condensation directly into the earthen bowls. And don’t forget to mulch! A two-inch layer around your beds will keep water from evaporating and prevent the weeds that rob moisture from your plants.

• Finally, do an equipment check to make sure you’re not losing water. Double-check your hose connections for leaks and use a nozzle with a shut-off valve, again preventing drips. Set your lawn mower to a higher cut, which helps prevent evaporation.

In addition to conserving water, these simple steps can lower your water bills as well. Don’t forget to contact your local water conservancy and improvement districts for even more ways to slow the flow this summer!