Water Conservation with a Side of Humor
For some readers the topic of water conservation may be intriguing due to environmental beliefs, efforts to save the rainforest, or simply to keep their foliage looking its best in the most frugal ways possible. While one of our main interests at iCloseHomes, Inc. is that we buy houses San Antonio TX, we also have interest in conservation. We’ve got tips for you, starting with the basics:
Choose the right tools & the right time
As simple as this sounds, you would be surprised (perhaps even guilty of…) how many homeowners posses and use a basic sprinkler! Such a caveman tool is not going to provide the most cost efficient water delivery due to much of the water being lost in the form of evaporation, runoff, and mist. Instead, opt for a “soaker hose” or a “sprinkler wand”, since both of these options evenly disperse the water throughout the desired area of lawn. Don’t be a caveman, be a smart homeowner and make this small investment to keep your lawn properly hydrated and growing throughout the year (while your water bill shrinks)! Water early, before the heat of the day which also conserves or in the evening. But be aware that evening watering can, at certain times of the year dispose your lawn to fungal problems.
Do not use too much water
Simple as it sounds. Your lawn is estimated to need only about an inch of water per week to stay in top condition (this can vary by lawn type and regional conditions and your specifics such as, sun or partial shade, depth of root zone, etc.), and shrubs require about 1 to 2 inches. If you think you need more water, you may very well not. Mulch and compost regularly. The only time plants truly need some extra TLC in the form of H2O is when the leaves are wilting. Instead of assuming that because the daily temperature average went up 5 degrees your beloved plants are shriveling up, inspect them regularly.
Start with the foundation…
Of your plants that is. How often have you been driving down the peaceful neighborhood road, envying your neighbor who has the day off and is exploiting this by lazily holding out their (probably basic) sprinkler or hose over their glorious field of lawn and greenery? Well you need not be envious and instead can make your plants green versus your disposition, by deep root watering. Less frequent, deeper watering is actually more effective than light frequent application. Think about it, grass and perennials have to have a strong root base, and that is where all the nutrients and water need be applied. So now as you drive by, laugh to yourself at your neighbor’s all too common mistake and stay cool knowing that you put your water to more productive use.
Go local
We know, those tropical plants that move and are possibly carnivorous you saw during last year’s vacation are bright and would attract awe from the many people viewing your home. Their eyes will dilate from such beauty, and yours will too from the price tag attached to them. Instead of splashing out for garden additions that are initially costly and will take even more money to maintain, try out xeriscaping. Using local plants that thrive within your climate is generally more cost efficient because these plants require less water, have natural reisitances to local pests and are abundant in your community already (no need to import = more money for other areas of home improvement). When done properly, xeriscaping reduces water runoff, evaporation, and maintenance time, while enhancing beauty, increasing water distribution and absorption.
Regardless, whether it be saving the chimpanzees or just an unquenchable desire to pinch your pennies in time for the holiday season, the aforementioned tips are helpful and necessary in order to reduce the amount and maximize your water distribution.
And……if you’re tired of gardening and want sell your house fast in San Antonio or anywhere in the surrounding region area, call us at iClose Homes, Inc. (210) 588-9999, because we buy houses San Antonio TX; with or without water! If you are interested in selling your house fast San Antonio, click here.
photo; google
