Planting & Watering Over Summer

We are in for yet another long hot and dry summer this year by the looks of it, our water storages are getting lower and lower and it is getting harder and harder to keep the garden going through these trying times. Many people are coming into the nursery asking us what is going to happen with restrictions and how is it going to affect their garden. To be honest, we don't know what the government is going to be doing come November 30 when they make their decision; they could alter the restrictions to a stage 3b, go to stage 4, which means no garden watering at all with mains water; or leave them as they are.

This doesn't mean that we all shouldn't be acting now. How we all prepare for this summer should be the same no matter what changes are made to the restrictions. We need to make sure that we can keep as much of the water that is already in the soil there for as long as possible. The best way to do this is through soil improvement when planting and mulching all garden beds.

Get Tanked

A water tank can also help capture the water from any summer rains. Summer normally brings with it a few heavy rain storms that may last only for a short period of time but the intensity of the storms can mean that you can almost fill up a tank in a single event. The tank water can then be used over the rest of the season. At BAAG we can recommend the best size tank for you and the best way to use that water in the garden effectively and efficiently.

Going Grey

Over summer other sources of water from the household can also be considered. Greywater is an excellent alternative when used correctly on the garden. Used in garden beds or on the lawn, giving an area a few hits with greywater over the summer period will keep your plants kicking along. If you are considering using greywater, please read the information on our Greywater factsheet to ensure that you are getting the best out of your system and not doing more harm than good.

Do you really have to plant now?

Over the next few months we would also recommend not planting anything unless you do have an alternative source of water to mains water. Establishing plants over the summer period often ends in failure, even when water restrictions are not an issue. If you must plant, consider drought tolerant native and indigenous species or the huge range of succulents and cacti that are available.

At BAAG we are here to help you adapt your garden to the continuing challenges of climate change, drought and the uncertainties of the world. We don't believe it is fair to you to try and make sales unless they are going to provide a lasting solution for your garden. We would rather not sell any plants than sell plants that are only going to die and leave you an unhappy customer. Drop into the nursery or browse through the website for heaps of great info on what you can do.

Click here to return to the list of garden factsheets.