Conserving water in the garden

THE City of Casey has reinforced the water conservation message as the warmer months continue and many gardens deteriorate.
Suggestions have been made by mayor Lorrain Wreford to ensure the best outcome for gardens which includes slow watering for best absorption, adding manure, compost or worm castings for improved soil and to conserve water in other areas of the household where possible for use on gardens.
“A simple thing we can all do at home to help our gardens and the environment is to keep a bowl in the kitchen sink to catch any excess run-off and rinse water when washing vegetables – you will be amazed by how much you can collect that can then be used in the garden,” said Cr Wreford.
Parks and reserves manager, Trevor Griffin said that people could determine a plant’s need for water by looking at the colour and shape of the leaf.
“Often silver or grey/green foliage is an indicator that the plant is able to cope with full sun and tolerate dry conditions.
“Examples of such plants include olive trees, French and English Lavender, the native cushion bush, the native emu bush and Kalbarri Carpet,” said Mr Griffin.
Mr Griffin has also listed edible plant varieties such as flat leaf parsley, sage, thyme, Rosemary, oregano, catmint, chives, garlic chives, rosemary, curry plant, lemon verbena and Warrigal greens as requiring less water.