#OCisWaterSmart

Are you looking to spruce up your landscape but don’t have a lot of space to do it? Check out these ten tips for creating a beautiful garden no matter the size of your space.

  1. WHEN YOU CAN’T GROW OUT — GROW UP!

    Growing plants vertically helps circulate air through the plant, reducing moisture buildup that causes leaf fungus and fruit rot.

  2. ADD MULCH

    Mulching can retain up to 80% of the water applied to your soil, and reduces water loss through evaporation.

  3. PAVE DIAGONALLY

    Lay stepping stones in a diagonal pattern. This gives the illusion of a bigger garden, eliminating the need to add more plants.

  4. USE COMPANION PLANTING

    Group plants together with similar water needs and avoid over or under watering.

  5. INSTALL DRIP IRRIGATION

    Water plants efficiently with drip irrigation. Rebates are available! www.mwdoc.com/drip

  6. USE EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

    Remove a patch of thirsty turf and replace a 5’ x 5’ space of grass with an edible plant or vegetable bed.

  7. USE FREE WATER

    Use rain barrels or a cistern to collect water from your downspouts in the rainy season.

  8. ADD COMPOST

    Prepare your soil by adding rich, organic compost that will help trap moisture and encourage deep roots.

  9. PLANT VEGGIES EARLY

    Establish plants before the hot and dry days of summer. They’ll have time to establish a root system that will allow them to survive the heat with less water.

  10. GROW FOOD IN POTS AND PLANTERS

    Save space, water, and money by using pots and planters. Most herbs and vegetables only need the top 8-12 inches of soil to grow!