The British climate is renowned for being unpredictable, but with the rising impact of climate change, it is now more important than ever to consider our use of water in landscaping. Droughts and high temperatures are becoming more common, and we need to collectively find ways to conserve the water and other natural resources.
For World Water Day, here are our suggestions for ways you can landscape your garden in a water-wise way.
Why is World Water Day important?
The theme for this year’s World Water Day, held on 22nd March, is Glacier Preservation. While we think of glaciers as just part of the world’s landscape, they are critical to life. We drink their meltwater, it is used for agriculture and healthy ecosystems, and even to produce cleaner energy.
Our glaciers are melting at an unprecedented rate, and the impact on our plant and its inhabitants is severe. Water conservation impacts all of us and it needs to be prioritised as much as possible. This precious resource is limited and the more we can do to minimise waste, the better.
Choose a natural pool
A swimming pool in the garden is the dream for many people, but it is not a sustainable addition if you are looking to reduce water waste. With a natural pool, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—a place where you can swim and enjoy gentle exercise surrounded by the biodiversity of your outdoor space, but that does not cause harm to the environment. They provide a natural habitat for wildlife, birds, and insects, as well as a place to swim and relax.
Natural pools rely on plants and microorganisms to filter and recirculate the water, eliminating the need for chemicals like chlorine to keep the water clean and hygienic. This also means there is no need to drain and refill the pool as you would with a traditional swimming pool, which conserves water.
Save rainwater and grey water
The first step to water-wise landscaping is to collect rainwater by fixing a water butt to every drainpipe or gutter around your property, including sheds, greenhouses, garages, or conservatories. Not only does this prevent unnecessary water waste but it is also better for your plants. Grey water is another option—this is any water from washing machines, baths, or washing up bowls that would otherwise go down the drain. Since grey water contains a small amount of soap or detergent, switch to an eco-friendly brand to reduce the harm to wildlife and insects.
Choose drought-resistant plants
A fantastic way to conserve water while still creating a beautiful garden is by selecting drought-resistant plants, which are adapted to survive with minimal watering. Even as summer approaches and temperatures begin to rise, these plants will adapt without the need for constant hydration, adding colour and interest to your space.
Succulents are perfect for this, since they store water in their leaves, which means they can go longer without watering, while native grasses add movement and texture to a garden and require less water than other flora. Forests and trees are another great choice; silver birch, Callery pear, and acacia trees are all drought-resistant and will tolerate hotter temperatures.
Group plants with similar needs together
Plants will need watering to survive, but by grouping plants with similar needs together you can optimise your watering schedule to ensure you are only using what is needed for the plant to thrive. This tip is completely free and requires no tools—simply, consider your landscape and the needs of the plant to reorganise where plants are placed for the right conditions.
It is a process known as hydrozoning, which prevents under- or over-watering and encourages healthier plants. Those that do not need much water can be placed together while those that are thirsty plants can be grouped in one area of the garden, so you can tailor your watering accordingly.
Integrate water irrigation measures
Irrigation is the key to successful water conservation, and it can be implemented in gardens, across the professional greenskeeping industry, and in landscapes of all types and sizes. Drip irrigation is a highly effective way to deliver water directly to the roots, which prevents the water from evaporating in the sunshine and ensures the plants stay hydrated.
Soaker hoses are another option that work in a similar way to drip irrigation systems by releasing water slowly and evenly for deeper watering. Smart irrigation controls adjust the water schedule to the weather conditions, so the soil stays moist without any water waste.
Reduce unnecessary lawned areas
Lush lawns are seen as the pinnacle of a beautiful garden, but they need a significant amount of water to remain green and healthy, particularly in dry summers where much of the water evaporates quickly. From a water-wise perspective, minimising the amount of lawn in your garden can really help to reduce how much water you are using to keep your garden healthy.
You might replace traditional grass with drought-resistant ground covers or choose hardscaping instead, like paving slabs or gravel. Aim for sustainable materials where possible, such as recycled pavers or natural stone. If you do not want to lose the lawn completely, try to mow at a higher height in the summer, which will encourage deeper roots and prevent water from evaporating so fast.
Adopting water-wise landscaping practices is not just beneficial for your garden but for the planet too. As we have seen, it does not take much to create a landscaped garden that minimises water waste. From choosing the right plants and grouping them together in the right way to reconsidering how you water your garden and switching from conventional additions to those that enhance the environment, hopefully you are inspired to rethink your garden and create a space that preserves water, for World Water Day and beyond.
Annie Button
Annie Button is a freelance writer who has written for a variety of prestigious online and print publications. She specialises in lifestyle, business, branding, digital marketing, and HR.
Website: www.anniebutton.co.uk
