Enjoy Your Garden

It is estimated that 25 per cent of household water is used in the garden, which makes the garden a great place to start gradually introducing more water conservation practices.

Step 3 - Water Wisely

There are many myths about watering, most of which are just that – myths. Once established, plants in good soils become drought tolerant even in dry weather conditions and don’t need additional water. By deep watering less frequently, you’ll encourage deep rooted plants which will be much more equipped to withstand hot dry days. Remember to always water within the current water restrictions.

Brendan’s Tips For Wise Watering

• To see if your plants need water, test the soil with your finger. It should be moist but not soggy. Always test your plants and see if they need water before turning on the tap
• By grouping plants that require more watering and ones that require less, you’ll become more efficient in your water use
• Consider an irrigation system which will water plants more efficiently at the roots and reduce weeds and fungal disease.

 

Alternative Water Supplies

Many City West Water customers have embraced ingenious methods of keeping their gardens healthy, without turning on the tap.

For more information on using alternative water in your garden see our Alternative Water section.

It’s time to enjoy your garden in Step 4.

• How do you make compost?

  1. Place your compost bin or heap on soil, not concrete, so it drains well and the worms and bacteria can enter the bin to decompose the waste.

  2. All compost bins or heaps need a balance of materials that:

  • are high in nitrogen, such as blood and bone or chicken manure
  • contain carbon, such as dried leaves or shredded newspapers
  • contain both carbon and nitrogen, such as kitchen scraps, pea straw and green garden prunings.

  3. To maintain your compost:

  • add water, but only enough so that the contents are moist but not wet
  • regularly turn the compost to add oxygen
  • put it in a sunny place to keep it warm.