It’s no secret that water is one of the main ingredients to a blooming great backyard, but there are many ways you can achieve a productive, water-efficient green space. The team at Urban Utilities have dug up their top four tips to help keep your garden hydrated and save on your water bill at the same time.

Plan your garden ‘zones’  

Take the time to observe the different areas of your garden throughout the year. Is it sunny, shady, windy? This will help when selecting plants that are suited to those conditions. 

 Group plants with similar watering needs together – this is called ‘hydrozoning’ and helps you water efficiently. For example, place shallow rooted plants together as they don’t need deep soaking.  

Consider the arrangement of your garden and choose hardy, deep-rooted plants for any sloping areas. 

Choose wisely  

Aussie natives are in their element here in south east Queensland. Pop into your local garden centre for some expert advice on these bright (and hardy) beauties.  

Ornamental grasses make a strong visual impact, are low maintenance and are available in a wide variety of sizes, leaf colours and textures. 

Small acts – big impact  

Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation.  

Waste not, want not! Healthy soil grows healthy plants, and compost is a game-changer when it comes to improving your soil. It’s nutrient-rich and can help with water retention.  

Mulch your garden to help retain moisture. It can also provide plants with important nutrients and control weed growth.  

Ready, set, mow

Aerating your lawn regularly promotes deeper root growth which results in a lawn that uses water more efficiently.  

Keep your grass at least 3cm high to minimise evaporation and check your mower blades for wear – your grass will lose less water if it’s cut neatly rather than torn with blunt blades. 

Fertilise sparingly! Lawns that are fertilised more than necessary actually require more water. Added bonus: you won’t have to mow as often! 

Get help

If your garden has been guzzling lots of H2O and you need extra time to pay, you can request a payment extension or arrangement at urbanutilities.com.au/help