With the recent near record-setting temperatures, gardeners fear a watering ban may become a reality.
Thankfully, last year's monsoonal summer ensured water tables are replenished. For now.
But don't think a watering ban, or watering limits at least, are not a possibility in the future.
Every eco-wise gardener knows well that water is one of nature's most precious resources. In fact, many gardeners wholeheartedly embrace xeriscaping, which simply means landscaping with plant material that uses little or no water. However, limiting the amount of water you pour into the ground doesn't have to mean abandoning thirsty plants.
A few common-sense steps taken now can help them survive the searing summer sun.
• Repair all leaks around faucets and hoses.
• Adopt nature's schedule along with your own. Interrupt your watering schedule for a couple of days if you received a measurable amount of rain overnight.
• Use a broom to sweep your sidewalk of grass clippings rather than a hose to wash them away.
• Group plants according to their needs. Some require water two or three times a week. Some daily.
• Take advantage of any shade, particularly with your potted plants. Many flowers and container-grown vegetables thrive in partial or dappled shade. Select your stocks accordingly and you'll save on overall water usage.
• Go native. Plants already habituated to your region, its climate and its average rainfall have a greater chance of survival.
• Improve your marksmanship. Lawn sprinklers can be wasteful things -- especially if aimed at sidewalks, driveways and less productive portions of your yard.
• Be willing to let the grass go dormant. That doesn't mean dead, although it may turn brown. Chances are, your lawn will green up again with the next soaking rain.
