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Water conservation is not just for the heat of the summer. In Texas, our communities can benefit from conservation of water resources year-round. This article talks about the top ten ways to conserve water in your home and garden.
In the Shower
Consider taking short showers in less than 10 minutes. Get in as soon as the water is warm and don’t leave the shower running for long periods of time while “getting ready” to get it. Keep in mind that a 10-minute shower uses approximately 25 gallons of water. Replacing shower heads with a water efficient model can lessen the usage of water and make it even more efficient.
Using the Sink
When hand washing and dishwashing, always use soap and water, then turn off the water during the washing process. Consider handwashing dishes and only using the dishwasher when you have enough dishes to fill the dishwasher entirely. While brushing teeth, turn off the water while brushing. This can conserve water over time when this becomes a default habit.
Laundry
Ensure that when doing laundry, it’s a full load and not just a few items in the wash. Nowadays washers have settings to set the cycle on “small, medium, or large.” Make sure the washer is on the proper setting before doing laundry to save water.
Fixing Leaks
If there is a leak found in the home, do not wait to repair it. Leaks are very costly and can get worse over time. Check toilets, sinks, appliances, and irrigation systems checked regularly for leaks and have them maintained by a professional.
Irrigation
Opt for drip irrigation systems for flower beds, ground cover, gardens, and container plants. These types of systems water slowly over time and conserve water by allowing soil to absorb water slowly much like when it rains. Spray irrigation systems cover a larger surface area, however, they also promote more water usage and run off which leads to plants losing soil. Soil loss can be detrimental to plants because it helps them maintain moisture.
Consider Watering Times
Try not to water between the times of 10am-6pm. Watering early in the morning or later in the evening allows the water to soak into the soil before evaporation can take place. During drought times, this rule is often followed by local municipalities to promote conservation of water. Following this rule can benefit the community year round.
Catching Rainwater
Harvesting rainwater is a fantastic way to conserve water usage. Large box stores offer rain barrels of many shapes and sizes to fit individual home needs. Rain barrels are relatively simple to install outdoors around the home and can be used in place of a garden hose to water plants.
Consider Drought Tolerant Plants
One of the most beneficial things to do is find plants that tolerate our climate here in Texas. Consider looking at Texas native plants that are already hardy and resistant to our climate. The Houston area is in the USDA Hardiness “Zone 9”. You can often find information online or on packaging of plants what zone the plant is recommended for.
Watering Less
Watering the lawn less can often have a profound effect on what it needs in the long run. It can often “train” the lawn to need less. By training the lawn to need less, it creates deeper roots and thus promotes a healthier, more resilient lawn.
Add mulch around the garden
Adding mulch around the garden can limit the amount of evaporation that occurs from the sun on hot days. Not only can applying mulch conserve soil moisture, but it also reduces weed growth and improves the fertility and health of the soil. By retaining water, you not only have to water less but also lower your water bill in the process.
There are many ways to conserve water around the home, and in Texas water conservation is not just for the heat of the summer. Many areas of the state can benefit from smart water usage throughout the year, especially during rainy season when residents need to use less water overall and let mother nature aid in taking care of our beautiful landscapes.