The average American uses 100 gallons of water every day. Drought conditions in many regions create watering restrictions and bans during spring and summer. Landscapes are often unfairly targeted. In many cases, plants require much less water than assumed. In one example, the California State Water Resources Department found that lawn and plant irrigation accounted for less than four percent of the state's total water consumption. In fact, garden centers suggest watering a new plant with only two-to-three gallons of water each week. After a month, a deep watering every other week is often adequate. And in a year or so, plants generally thrive with minimal watering.

Using water-efficient landscaping techniques and drought-tolerant plants can save up to 60 percent of water used in traditional landscapes. Follow these suggestions from the American Nursery and Landscape Association (ANLA), to become a more water-wise gardener.

Preparation

• Amend soil if necessary. Water doesn't easily penetrate clay soil and passes through sandy soil too quickly.

• Choose drought-tolerant or low-water demand plants.

• Group plants according to watering requirements.

• Aerate lawns for best water penetration.

• Exercise weed control. Weeds compete for water.

• Mulch plants to reduce water loss from evaporation.

• Shelter container plants. When possible, move pots to shady areas.

Water Use

• Drip water conservation systems save up to 60 percent more water than sprinkler irrigation methods.

• Water early in the day and on less windy days to reduce evaporation loss. Best watering window: dawn to 9 a.m.

• Less frequent, but thorough watering, develops strong root systems and provides greater tolerance to dry periods.

• To avoid wasting water, turn off sprinklers and hoses as soon as watering is completed.

Your local garden center or landscape firm are great resources for additional water-wise gardening techniques.

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