Water-Wise Tips for the Summer Season

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Water use, on average, doubles during the summer months. Much of this increase is caused by needless water waste – costing each of us more money. By using water wisely, you will waste less water, cause less stress on the treatment and distribution system, and save money.

Quench your lawn's thirst

Water your lawn once a week, but give it a thorough soaking. This will produce a deep root system and stronger grass. Daily watering results in shallow roots and weaker grass.

To quench your lawn's thirst, choose a sprinkler that delivers large flat droplets, and that best suits the size and shape of your lawn. A rotary type that spins in a circle is best.

Less is better

Your lawn doesn't need much water to thrive – two to three centimetres of rain or water once a week is plenty. Place containers in various locations on your lawn while using the sprinkler to judge the amount of water being used.

Timing is everything

Water your lawn in the early morning for best results. Don't water it in the evening when prolonged dampness can cause disease and fungus. Avoid watering on windy days.

Trim your grass, don't shave it

When you cut your lawn, leave it at least six centimetres long to provide shade for the roots. This will allow the soil to remain moist and require less watering.

Trade in your grass

Consider replacing your grass with drought-resistant plants and ground cover. You'll save water and time spent on upkeep. Ask your local gardener about drought-resistant plants that thrive in your area.

Rain barrels are back!

Collect rain water in an old barrel or other large container, and use the water on your garden. Use this water as an alternative to turning on the hose for newly transplanted material, window boxes, flower pots and container gardens. Rain water is actually better for your plants as it does not contain any chlorine and is at ambient temperature. Keep your rain barrel covered to prevent mosquitos breeding and for safety reasons.

Drip, drip, drip

To remain healthy, trees and bushes need water to reach deep down to their roots. The best way to give them the deep watering they need is to put your garden hose at the base of the tree and turn on the tap to get three drips per second. The time required will vary with the size of the tree or bush – one hour for a rose bush and up to four hours for a mature tree. Move the hose around to cover the whole area under the tree.

Helping your trees grow

Newly planted trees need two to three centimetres of water per week for the first two seasons. During the first five years, trees only need to be watered every two to three weeks during a dry period, or once a month for older trees.

Keep the water in the pool

To cut down on water loss from splashing, don't overfill your pool. Fill it to 15-20 centimetres from the top. A swimming pool cover will prevent evaporation, keep debris out and keep heat in.

A bucket and sponge work best

Instead of washing your car with a running hose, use a bucket and sponge for washing, then rinse it quickly using a trigger nozzle on your hose.

A broom works well – and it's cheap

Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway or sidewalk.

REMEMBER, the WISE USE OF WATER will save you money and help improve the environment.

An environmental citizen uses water wisely
For more information, contact:
Enquiry Centre, Environment Canada, Ottawa, Ontario  K1A 0H3
Toll free: 1-800-668-6767