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Water conservation is a responsibility for all of us, especially here in northern Nevada. Fortunately, smart water usage really isn’t that difficult. A little planning goes a long way, and the landscaping pros at Harris Landscape Construction are here to help. Here are four tips for smart (and easy!) water usage in your northern Nevada landscaping.

Choose And Plant Wisely

When you’re adding plants to your landscape, opt for native and drought-hardy species. While local nurseries do a good job of offering these plants, if you’re shopping at big box stores, make sure you’re checking the labels so you aren’t buying something that just won’t do well in our climate. Native and drought-hardy plants are already acclimated to local water conditions, which means they’ll fare much better than non-native choices. Interesting in something a little more exotic? Look for drought-hardy varieties.

When it’s time to plant, do so in groupings. It’s not just about aesthetics. Grouping plants that have comparable sunlight and water needs means more efficiency in your watering zones.

Water on a Smart Schedule

When, where and how you water is key.  Plants with shallow root systems are more likely to be stressed from the hot summer sun or dry conditions, so it’s important to water deeply and long enough to reach the roots and encourage deep growth. Make sure that your irrigation system is properly installed to minimize water waste, and use features like drip lines and soaker hoses as appropriate. Avoid watering during the midday heat, when much of it will be lost to evaporation. Schedule your system to come on early in the day and in the evenings on your assigned days.

Incorporate Hardscapes

Hardscape elements, like patios, walkways, walls, etc., aren’t just functional and pleasing to the eye. They help break up the space, minimizing irrigation needs and creating areas for plant groupings.

Scale Down Lawn Sizing

The lawn is without question the thirstiest part of your landscaping. Scaling down on this green space reduces your water footprint. But if a green lawn is something you simply need to have, do your best to keep it healthy with regular mowing to keep it at an appropriate length. Avoid trimming it too short, which can stress sod and require more water in order to recover.

If you’re considering upgrading your landscaping to better conserve water, we’d love to discuss your needs. Contact Harris Landscape Construction in Reno today to get started.