Resources
See our Facebook feed below for relevant conservation tips, information, and opportunities to save water, so that we can all do our part to conserve this precious resource.
Arizona’s water situation is very different than in other states. The Groundwater Management Act was passed in 1980 to help the state responsibly manage its water resources: Read about this important piece of legislation here: bit.ly/49UUK86
General tip: Although a lot of great tips and best practices have been shared this month, ultimately every gardener does things a little differently depending on what works for them. We encourage all gardeners to continue trying new methods and styles to figure out what works for them.
The best way to irrigate a garden is with an in-line drip system, that is, irrigation tubing with holes every 6 inches or so. It is also important that the pressure is regulated in the irrigation system. Too much pressure on the irrigation hardware will cause blow-outs and leaks which is wasted water.
Before adding any seeds to a garden bed, run the irrigation system and make sure it is functioning properly. Look for leaks regularly and make sure the irrigation timer is working properly. For general information on how to set up a drip irrigation system, review step 5 of the Xeriscape: Landscaping with Style in the Arizona Desert guide: www.amwua.org/landscaping-with-style/install/install-irrigation-materials
A reliable source of water is important to keep a garden thriving. Whether you’re able to have a drip irrigation system set up for your garden or you're watering by hand, it’s best to adjust your watering practices as your vegetables grow. When your veggies are young, you want to water frequently but not very deeply because the roots are young and small.
Shallow, frequent watering will be needed at the beginning to keep the soil and seed moist, encourage germination, and prevent the soil from crusting. As plants start to take root, begin watering less frequently but for longer times to encourage strong, deep roots. The watering depth and time ultimately depend on the vegetables being grown and the soil type in the garden.
Remember, when it rains you can avoid watering for 5 or so days depending on how much native soil you are using. Use the Landscape Watering Guide to make a plan for your garden: bit.ly/3l93MX9
Soil is very important when planting a garden! We recommend amending with compost, which reintroduces valuable nutrients to the soil. About a week before you plant anything in the soil, mix in some compost and then let the soil sit.
Avoid planting invasive species in your landscape. Unsure what is considered invasive? Check out this list: bit.ly/3AQtXce
Questions about Drop by Drop?
Have questions about the Drop by Drop campaign that aren’t answered on this page? Head over to our Drop by Drop campaign FAQs page!
Need to contact us?
Phone: 602-240-6860
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.AZWATER.com
