How To Conserve Water in Your Lawn in Corpus Christi
Summertime watering restrictions may have you wondering how to save water at home, especially in the yard. Summers in Corpus Christi are typically highlighted by dry lawns and dying landscapes. This is all caused by the coupled effects of high temperatures and restrictions from the city on our water usage. Unless you recycle your grey water and use it for watering your lawn, or have an excess of capital to pay for higher water rations, it is likely that your yard will suffer as the summer sets in.
Here at CC Tree Service we can help by giving you a few tips on how to save water at home and keep your lawn and landscapes looking healthy. Planning for the seasons in advance and knowing your climate is the easiest way to save money on water and prevent your plants from dying as the temperatures rise. Because of our location and proximity to the equator, Corpus Christi experiences a wide spectrum of climate change.
Planting for your climate zone
How to save water in the garden starts with picking the right plants. To save money on maintaining your landscape we advise picking plants that would thrive in dryer climates such as yucca, sedums, sages, oleander, verbena, and cacti. To help conserve water in your lawn you may consider planting your larger plants within the shaded areas of tree canopies. In unshaded areas, we advise customers to plant smaller plants that require less water, and as they become more established maintaining a smaller footprint will reduce the amount of water they require to stay healthy.
How mulch saves you money
One of the most underrated ways to conserve water in garden beds and landscapes is to cover exposed areas with mulch. By covering the ground with a three to four-inch layer of mulch you can prevent evaporation, keep the ground cooler, and retain moisture.
Timing is key
Watering your lawn on a schedule will also save you money when done appropriately. Watering in the morning is the easiest way to save on your water costs whether it be in your lawn or garden. By watering your lawn in the early morning, you help prevent evaporation from the afternoon heat and give your lawn and garden more time to use the water provided. Watering in the evening can be tricky — molds and fungi grow well in moist, dark conditions, and sensitive plants may fall victim to diseases and pests when watered at night.
Alternative ways to save water at home
We recommend drip irrigation when trying to prevent water loss because it delivers a steady, slow-release stream directly to the base of the plant which prevents evaporation. Collecting rainwater for watering your lawn from gutters and roof runoff will also help. Collecting rainwater allows South Texas residents to harness a free alternative water supply. Your extra water reserve will save your lawn when the drought becomes more severe and the rations for water are reduced. Rainwater also provides micronutrients for your plants. These can increase their immune structure and further act to reduce their need for water.
The types of planters that you use to plant your patio and yard plants in will also determine their need for water. When picking pots and planters it is best to steer clear of heat-conductive materials such as metals and dark colors which will increase the rate of evaporation and water loss.
Effects of soil types
In Corpus Christi, it is also important to check your soil type and consistency due to the high variability based on location in the area. Typically, areas closer to the coast have higher concentrations of sand which creates a problem for water retention. The opposite problem with water retention can be seen the further you travel inland. As you move inland you find nearly all clay soils. Clay is detrimental to soil consistency because it prevents thorough saturation and water penetration.
Both problems with soil consistency and water control can be fixed. Firstly, by digging out flower beds and gardens to loosen and remove some of the clay, and secondly by mixing in wood chips and compost. By mixing substrates that retain water, you will be able to build the root systems for the plants of that area and create a stronger more resilient infrastructure and immune system.
CC Tree Service Is Here to Help You Conserve Water in Your Lawn
If you have any questions about how to save water at home, feel free to give us a call at (361) 443-4852, or get a free estimate for any of your lawn care needs!