Whether establishing a new landscape or enjoying mature trees and shrubs from years
ago, water is a concern for gardens of all stages.
Considerations for the New Landscape
• Steep slopes encourage water runoff and erosion. Choose drought tolerant
groundcovers, trees and shrubs for these locations. Consider terracing to further
prevent erosion and water loss.
• Wind increases the amount of water loss through transpiration. Creating a screen
with a fence or low water use trees and shrubs can protect more sensitive plants.
• Trees can shade the landscape and reduce the
soil and air temperature thus reducing amount
of water lost. Choose low water use trees.
Research turfgrass species prior to planting to
understand their water requirements. Avoid
species that are high water users and design
turf areas with efficient irrigation.
• Design the landscape so plants with similar
water requirements are together. A low water
use plant situated in a high-water area will
result in the plant receiving too much water which can cause damage and waste.
• Choose drought tolerant plants for south or west-facing areas of the landscape
where there is maximum sun exposure.
Considerations for the Established Landscape
• Water deeply, but no deeper than the root zone, and slowly to avoid runoff.
Water infrequently to promote deeper root growth
• Loosen the soil and add mulch. Soil compaction decreases water absorption.
Mulch can help prevent compaction. Mulch can also be used to create a basin
around trees to help contain water near the root zone.
• Monitor irrigation system for leaks and malfunctions. If you don’t have a smart
irrigation system, be sure to turn the irrigation off when we have rain.
• Maintain weeds so there isn’t competition for the water applied.
Find out more in our KSRE Publication Water and Conservation in the Home
Landscap
