Four Tips to Watering Effectively

Approximately 58 percent of residential water is used in landscaping in Las Vegas. While the city typically gets about 4.17 inches of rain annually, there are times that you will need to water desert landscaping in Las Vegas. When you do, then keep these tips in mind to prevent wasting water.

Choose Xeriscape Plants

One of the keys to preventing water loss is to those plants requiring the least amount of water for your landscaping. Before deciding to add new plants to your landscaping make sure that you know their water needs. Depending on where you live in the Las Vegas region will make a difference on what grows best in your area, but you may want to consider snapdragons, ice plants, hyssop, and sandy cherries.

Water the Amount Needed

The amount of water that a plant needs depends on many different factors. Generally, small plants need water down to one foot while medium-sized plants and shrubs need water down to two feet. Most trees need water down to three feet. The simplest way to know if you are watering deep enough is to use a long water meter or screwdriver. If it goes to the desired length easily, then your plant is getting enough water.

Water in the Right Places

Sending water soaring high into the air when watering a yard is not the most efficient method as too much of it evaporates. Therefore, you should concentrate on keeping the water close to the ground. When watering trees, be sure to pay attention to the outside edge of the canopy of the tree, called the drip line, as this is where the tree’s roots that take in water are located. Watering close to the trunk is highly ineffective.

Water at the Right Time

When water becomes a commodity in the Las Vegas area, then the cities will tell you when you can water based on your address. When possible, try to water from 3 a.m. to 8 a.m. during the summer months as less of the water will evaporate.

If you follow these simple tips, then you will have a beautiful desert landscape. The great news is that you will be protecting precious water from being wasted. The last bit of great news is that you will be saving money because your water bill will be lower.