Did you know that outdoor watering can make up nearly half of a household’s total water use, especially during hot months? Keeping your yard healthy and green doesn’t have to waste water or raise your water bill. With a few smart strategies such as collecting rainwater, using efficient irrigation, and choosing drought-tolerant plants, you can maintain a vibrant, low-maintenance landscape that conserves water and supports a healthier environment.
Collect Rainwater for Outdoor Use
Capturing rainwater is one of the easiest ways to conserve water outside the home. A single 55-gallon rain barrel can provide one inch of water to 88 square feet of planted area, enough to water a three-foot by four-foot raised bed about seven times!
Benefits of a Rain Barrel
- Reduces demand on your municipal or well water
- Lessens stormwater runoff and soil erosion
- Saves money on your water bill
Switch to Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation is 95-100% efficient in delivering water, versus the 75% or less efficiency of traditional sprinkler systems, saving considerable amounts of water. By watering directly and slowly at the root, there is less water lost to evaporation, wind, or runoff into the street.
Why Choose Drip Irrigation
- Great for flower beds, vegetable gardens, shrubs, and trees
- Uses 30 to 50 percent less water than sprinkler systems
- Easy to install and customize
- Stifles weed growth by limiting water to targeted areas
Water Wisely, Not More
Many homeowners make the common mistake of overwatering. In reality, most yards only need about one inch of water per week, including rainfall. That is usually enough to keep grass green and plants healthy, especially when applied through deep, infrequent watering.
To check how much water your sprinkler system delivers, place a shallow container such as a tuna can in your yard during watering. Time how long it takes for the water to reach one inch. Once you’ve determined the time this requires, divide it into two shorter watering sessions per week. Each session should apply about half an inch, allowing the soil to absorb the water more efficiently and reducing runoff.
Watering Tips to Save More
- Water early in the morning or after sunset to reduce evaporation.
- Use the “cycle and soak” method to prevent runoff.
- Skip watering on windy days or after rain. Sign up for weekly watering guidance from Woodlands Water.
- Install a rain sensor on your irrigation system.
- Follow The Woodlands’ Defined Irrigation Schedule:
- Addresses ending in an odd number (1,3,5,7,9) may water from 8 p.m. Tuesday through 6 a.m. Wednesday and from 8 p.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Saturday.
- Addresses ending in an even number (0,2,4,6,8), may water from 8 p.m. Wednesday through 6 a.m. Thursday and from 8 p.m. Saturday through 6 a.m. Sunday.
- Drip irrigation and hand watering are exempt from this schedule.
- For more details, visit the Woodlands Water Defined Irrigation Schedule.
Plant Texas Superstars
Conserve water by choosing native plants that thrive in our climate. Texas Superstar® plants are tested by Texas A&M AgriLife and selected for their beauty, toughness, and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates. Once established, they need little water and maintenance, making them ideal for The Woodlands.
Top Texas Superstar Plants for Water-Wise Landscaping:
- Plumbago – A sun-loving plant with clusters of soft blue flowers that bloom from spring to fall.
- Lantana – Available in a variety of colors, this pollinator-friendly plant is heat-tolerant and thrives in full sun.
- Turk’s Cap – Shade-friendly with bold red blooms that attract hummingbirds. Excellent for understory areas.
- Mexican Mint Marigold – A fragrant herb with bright yellow flowers and licorice-scented leaves, perfect for sunny spots and herbal gardens.
Add Mulch to Maximize Efficiency
A layer of two to three inches of mulch around your plants helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and prevent weeds that compete for water. Explore these easy tips to effectively mulch in your home landscape.
Maintain Your Irrigation System
Keeping your irrigation system in good working condition ensures water is used efficiently.
- Check for leaks and broken sprinkler heads.
- Adjust sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks or driveways.
- Clean clogged emitters.
- Aerate your lawn annually to improve water absorption.
By collecting rainwater, installing efficient irrigation, and watering thoughtfully, you can build a water-smart landscape that looks great year-round. These simple practices will reduce your water use, lower your utility bills, and protect our shared water resources. Start today, because every drop counts!
