Sustainable Landscaping – Water Conservation

BCLS Landscape Services

Water conservation starts with a mindset of “Water and Irrigate Responsibly”

Of the tremendous amounts of water applied to lawns and gardens, much of it is never absorbed by the plants and put to use. Some water is lost to runoff by being applied too rapidly, and some water evaporates from exposed, un-mulched soil; but, the greatest waste of water is applying too much too often. In addition to over watering plants, excess irrigation can leach nutrients deep into the soil away from plant roots, increasing the chances of polluting groundwater. Similarly, runoff caused by excess irrigation can carry polluting fertilizers and pesticides to streams and lakes. The waste or pollution of high quality water through inefficient irrigation practices can be eliminated through proper watering techniques.

Most lawns receive twice as much water as they require for a healthy appearance. The key to watering lawns is to apply the water infrequently, yet thoroughly. This creates a deep, well-rooted lawn that efficiently uses water stored in the soil. To know when to water the lawn, simply observe the grass. Wilting and discoloration are signs of water stress. At the first sign of wilting, you have 24 to 48 hours to water before serious injury occurs. Apply one inch of water to the lawn as rapidly as possible without runoff. Watering only when needed and watering thoroughly produces a deep-rooted lawn that is more water efficient and drought enduring.

The goal of any irrigation system is to give plants a sufficient amount of water without waste. By zoning an irrigation system correctly, grass areas can be watered separately and more frequently than groundcovers, shrubs and trees. Both sprinkler and drip irrigation can be incorporated to achieve water conservation in a landscape.

Our goal is to work with clients to develop a water management program which adequality applies water to a client’s property with minimum waste and maximum effectiveness

BCLS Landscape Services of Central Virginia

12134 Washington Hwy, Ashland, VA 23005 – Phone (804) 752-0052