Drought training

HILLS gardeners are being urged to get their plants used to needing less water.
Yarra Valley Water managing director Tony Kelly said people can train their plants to become more drought tolerant by watering less often to encourage deep root growth.
Mr Kelly said although people can water twice a week under the new Stage Three restrictions, many plants don’t always require watering that often.
“While we understand that many homeowners get great enjoyment from their gardens, we need to be sensible about watering during these warmer months,” he said.
Mr Kelly said as well as training plants to need less water, gardeners can use mulch and wetting agents in their garden to reduce evaporation after watering to help maintain moisture levels in the soil.
“Another simple tip is to place buckets in the shower to capture water when waiting for it to heat up or using bath water to water plants or lawns that aren’t coping too well with the dry conditions,” he said.
Mr Kelly said people need to become accustomed to the dry climate and change their behaviour in the garden to save water.
“We are in a drought and have been for quite some time.
“We need to be realistic about whether it’s worth saving plants that really aren’t suited to our climate,” he said.
“I would suggest gardeners wait until the cooler months and invest in drought tolerant plants when creating new gardens, or revamping existing ones.”
People interested in finding more tips on how to save water should call Yarra Valley Water on 131 721.