How to Setup a Eco-friendly Watering System for Your Garden
Living in rural Australia has taught me some lessons about saving the planet. It is strange that we find those in rural areas actually doing more for the planet than those in the cities. When you don’t have access to utilities to use abuse, you soon learn to conserve water, and learn the ways that you can be losing it. For example, a leak-proof ball valve connection on a hose can save thousands of litres of water each year. A few small drops might not look like much, but it adds up to a lot, even over a small amount of time. Setting up an extremely eco-friendly water system for your garden does not take much work. Here is how you go about doing it.
- Installing a water tank. Water tanks in Australia are extremely popular. Water from the sky is free, and with rising utilities costs, it just makes sense. Tanks are inexpensive and there are a number of options to choose from depending on your available space. We don’t always need to look good, especially when we know we are doing something right for the environment. The key to taking full advantage of a rainwater tank is to make sure the ground is stable, and no water will build up underneath, and you direct ever ounce of water from all available roof surfaces into your rainwater tank.
- Shifting your water. To get water out of your tank, you are going to need a pump or several pumps, if you have a large area to cover. Low-power pumps only use a very small amount of electricity and hold the water at pressure. The pump does not run continuously. The pressure is built up and the device will only restart when needed.
- Low flow. The last thing any of your plants or any part of your garden needs is fast flowing water. Reducing the flow with low-flow spray guns and low-flow nozzles will reduce the pressure on your pump, reduce water usage, and give your garden more chance to absorb that water.
- Natural flow. While not a part of your watering system in technical terms, we must not forget about the shape and direction of our land. Using water fully is our goal. You should sculpt, shape and create system of catchments to make the most out of any water on your property. Water that leaves your property is lost. Aim to retain it with your garden design.
- Evenings are best. It might be enjoyable to water your plants in the morning, but the best time is actually in the evening. The water will evaporate less, especially when you are using a spray gun. Plants and the soil will best absorb water during the night time – make the most of your water and avoid the morning soak and waste.
A watering system for your garden is more than just equipment. It includes your plant and garden landscaping choices, and the times you choose to distribute this precious resource.