In order for flowers, vegetables and lawns to survive in the warm summer, regular watering is necessary. However, water should be used with caution in hot and dry conditions. These are the most important tips.
Garden care should not be neglected, especially on hot summer days. However, during the summer heat, water is also a precious commodity that should be used wisely with plants and the like. These tips will help reduce water consumption.
The good old rain barrel
Probably the easiest way to save water in the garden: collect rainwater in a barrel. It can be placed under the gutter, for example. The advantages: The water is free and, due to its low pH value, is usually better tolerated by the plants than the calcareous tap water. However, it is important to put a lid on the rain barrels so that no animals fall in or lots of leaves get in. Mosquito larvae also like to settle in rain barrels. So that the water does not overflow in long-lasting or heavy rain, a so-called rain thief should be used. This is a device that is built into the downspout of the gutter and diverts the water when needed. If the rain barrel is full, the excess rain flows into the downpipe instead of into the barrel.
From there, the water can flow into the sewage system or seep into the ground. It is therefore no longer possible for the bin to overflow. If more rain comes, the water flows back into the rain barrel if water has been taken from there in the meantime.
Do not cut the lawn too much
When caring for the lawn, it is advisable to set the cutting height of the lawnmower higher in the warmest summer months. 3.5 to 5 centimeters are ideal. Because a green lawn needs a lot of water anyway, especially if it is cut short.
Chop instead of pour
In order to save water in the vegetable patch, it is enough to work the soil regularly with a hoe and cultivator - ideally when the soil has become soaked with moisture after the rain. The tools destroy the fine water channels in the upper layer of earth. This reduces evaporation and the soil does not dry out as quickly. Bark mulch also protects against evaporation and also reduces the growth of weeds and the like.
Hose and watering can instead of lawn sprinklers
Experts generally advise against using a lawn sprinkler. The reason: In high heat, the water evaporates quickly. Instead, use the garden hose and watering can specifically in the morning and evening hours.
