Water Conservation
10 Tips for Water Conservation in Vegetable Gardens
Add Organic Matter to Soil
Adding compost to the soil will help reduce the plants' need for water. Increasing organic matter by only 5% will quadruple the water holding capacity of the soil.
Use Mulches
Mulching helps reduce evaporation and cool the soil. It can reduce plants' water needs by as much as 50%. Straw is a great mulch - use a thick layer of 1-3 inches.
Use Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation applies water directly to soil and roots, reducing evaporation. Put the drip irrigation under the mulch to further cut down on water loss.
Adjust Watering to Plant Needs
Water needs vary depending on the stage of plant development. Moisture levels are critical when plants are young, right after transplanting, and during flowering and fruiting.
Choose Appropriate Vegetables
If you live in a drought area, consider not planting heavy water users like corn or beans, or just plant less. Make sure to mulch heavily if you can't do without them.
Change Planting Style
Plant in blocks as opposed to rows. Leaves shade the soil and you get less evaporation from the garden beds.
Know Your Root Depths
Know the root depth of your plants and group plants with similar water requirements. This helps deliver just the right amount of water without waste.
Adjust for Soil Type
Clay soil holds water well but absorbs slowly - use low flow emitters and water less frequently. Sandy soil is the opposite. Loam is in the middle.
Keep Beds Weeded
Don't waste water on weeds. They compete for water with your vegetables. Regular weeding ensures water goes where it's needed most.
Water at Cooler Times
Use timers on your irrigation system to water between 9 PM and 6 AM. More water will soak in rather than evaporate during these cooler hours.
Tips adapted from Suzanne at GrowOrganic.com