Watering your garden the right amount
In Katherine, it is important we all work together to ensure our water sources remain safe and reliable. We need to reduce water use to keep reliance on the use of bore water to 10%, the maximum amount that can be treated each day to remove PFAS. The community has done a great job so far but over irrigating is a big contributor to water wastage, and it doesn't do your garden any favours.
When watering the garden, less really is more. But if you’re unsure (as most of us are) and are over watering just to be on the safe side, then why not get a free Garden Tune Up by one of our registered irrigators. They will schedule your irrigation system to reduce the likelihood of over watering. Here are some other tips on how to plan your watering schedule according to the time of year. Your garden and your water bill will thank you for it.
Seasonal advice
Wet season - December to March
There is really only one irrigation rule of thumb. Turn it off when it rains - but make sure you keep an eye on your garden and water it if it looks really thirsty.
Here are some other ways your garden can get the most out of the wet season:
- Keep an eye on your irrigation system after a storm. Lightning strikes can burn out underground wiring.
- Mulch, mulch, mulch! In the wet season mulch is essential to keep plant roots cool, water in the soil and weeds down - whilst preventing water logging (just remember, mulch pushed against tree trunks can encourage rotting during the wet, so make sure there is space around the trunk to allow for airflow).
- In the wet, everything thrives - including pests! Keep a close eye on your garden and chat to your local garden supply store if you notice anything unusual!
- For those that love 'growing your own' - don't forget that the end of the wet season is a good time to get veggies beds ready for planting.
Dry season - April to November
Use the 3, 2, 1 rule for irrigation:
- 3: Water your lawn three times a week
- 2: Water your garden twice a week
- 1: Water natives just once a week
Don't forget to follow the Compulsory Water Conservation Measures.
Dry season is the perfect time to check your system for leaks and inspect your dripper system for blocked or blown drippers. It’s also a good time to do your garden maintenance - so mulch garden beds, prune plants that need it, re-pot plants and fertilise.
