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Use mulch in gardens and landscaping

The use of mulch materials, such as chipped wood, straw, and leaves, in gardens and landscaping helps to conserve water by absorbing and storing moisture for plants. It also insulates the ground from hot temperatures during summer months, decreasing the evaporation rate of water. In cool temperatures, the mulch can help keep plants warm; this can be especially useful for protecting seedlings in the spring.

You can purchase high quality mulch and compost produced through Frederick County’s yard waste recycling program by visiting the 9031 Reichs Ford Road facility. You can also get lower-quality single-ground mulch at no-charge.

Use "grey" water for watering plants

“Grey water” is a term for used water from your shower, bath, washing machine, sinks, cookware, and fish bowls that you can use to water your gardens and reduce your water bills. Grey water does not include water from toilets, which is considered black water. Be creative in the ways that you collect your grey water: save water used to boil vegetables, pasta, and eggs. Collect dripping water from your window air conditioning unit. Collect water used to rinse fruits and vegetables.

For more tips on using grey water, check out this guide on rainwater harvesting and grey water reuse.

Use slow-drip irrigation for watering plants

Slow-drip irrigation delivers water to plants at a slower rate that better matches their absorption rates, helping to minimize evaporation of water from plants and the soil surrounding them. Slow-drip irrigation can be facilitated through use of a soaker hose or watering bags.

Learn more about slow-drip irrigation or learn how to make your own slow-watering devices for free.

Plant drought-resistant plants

Planting drought-resistant plants in your lawn and landscaping reduces the amount of watering required to keep the plants healthy. According to the EPA, a household can save 20-50% of their outdoor watering needs by converting to a water-efficient landscape through the use of drought-resistant plants and careful design. To learn more:  Rooting for Native Plants

Refrain from watering your lawn

30% of the water consumed on the East Coast goes toward watering lawns. The easiest way to cut your household’s water use is to stop watering your lawn. Watering your lawn also makes your grass grow faster, and the higher your grass grows, the more often you need to mow your lawn. Learn more about the environmental impacts of traditional lawns.

Install a rain barrel or cistern

Rain barrels and cisterns trap water from your downspouts and store it for future uses like watering your garden. They can help to reduce the amount of stormwater entering storm drains headed for the Chesapeake Bay. Learn more from our Tips for Green Leaders Rain Barrel Fact Sheet. Check out this guide on rainwater harvesting or this video about rain barrels.