Here are five tips for saving water ........................................

FROM SECRETS OF TOOWOOMBA’S GARDENERS BOOK AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE CHRONICLE OFFICE

The cruel truth of the matter is that most of Toowoomba and Darling Downs region is in drought – and has been for years. So, rather than fight it, we have to work with it. For gardeners, this means creating a drought-resistant garden with fewer thirsty plants. It also means developing watering systems to minimise waste. Some people recycle their grey water, others just use tanks. Water is a huge issue for our awardwinning gardeners, and here they share some of their tips on how to save money on water.

JULIE ROGGEVEEN

Try not to overwater, this encourages surface roots and will in turn leave your garden exposed when rain has taken a holiday. Deep watering once a week promotes deep roots. Dripper hoses work well as little water is lost to evaporation. The top soil will feel dry but the moisture remains down at the roots where it is needed.

PETER & CHARMAINE WILIAMSON

We make extensive use of waterwise systems and principles. Grey water recycling, tank water, mulch, specially designed sprinkler system, misters etc. we use minimal town water and recycle 50 to 100 litres per day. We also have a 15,000-litre rainwater tank.

Charmaine waters in the mornings and only during the day if it is very hot. She doesn’t water much in the evenings.

BOB AND VAL FORD

Hand-hosing is best. I use a soft wand – don’t be tempted to blast the plants on jet settings and do water at the base of the plant only. If frost is forecast don’t water in the evening, as that will only add to the severity of the frost, do water in the morning as it will help to get rid of frost on plants and will help prevent leaves from burning and going black from the frost.

CHRISTINE HOTTON

Irecommend drip irrigation, mulch and tank water. Also, try and shape the garden to catch and keep rain run-off.

Remember, deciduous trees provide free mulch. Grow shade trees, use some inorganic mulch to let rain through easily, break up organic mulch, and don’t water the lawn. Above all, if possible, grow plants that are waterwise themselves.

VICKI LAYTON

My best advice on flowering perennials is to try and group together plants that have the same watering requirements.