June 10, 2008
Be Water Wise
Less than 20 percent of Alabama is drought free. The remaining 80 percent is experiencing some type of drought ranging from abnormally dry to severe drought.
Many water systems in the state have voluntary water restrictions in place — encouraging users to conserve water.
Ellen Huckabay, the outreach coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Home Grounds team, was on Backyard Wisdom this past Saturday, and she had a number of excellent tips on being water wise when watering turf. Many of her tips also apply to watering flower and shrub beds and container plants.
• Only water plants, not driveways or sidewalks. Turn irrigation off if water begins to run off.
• Water between 4 and 10 a.m. to reduce evaporation and disease problems.
• Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation to maximize efficiency.
• Maintain irrigation systems properly.
• Don’t overwater!
• Water based on the weather, not on the clock.
• Mulch to help hold moisture in the soil.
• Choose plants adapted to your area.
• Minimize gardening activities during times of drought.
For more ideas on dealing with dry weather in an environmentally friendly way, visit
“Gardeners Dealing with Drought” by Kerry Smith, the Alabama Master Gardener Program state coordinator.