When the water runs out

Recently I wrote an article called Good to the last drop about water usage by Canadians. In the article I spoke about the fact that Canadians have more fresh water than almost anyone else on the planet and that for us, it’s considered a cheap commodity. I stand by this messaging as I still see homeowners using water to wash driveways, sidewalks, and even the side of houses, which to me is a flagrant misuse of a resource. That said, I do want to recognize that there are several thousand homes in the Prince Edward County area that pay more for water than a majority of Canadians. If you are lucky enough to have a good well, or live in a municipality where water prices are less expensive, think about how you use water during periods of drought.

Here are some simple ways to make the most of your water.

• Focus on watering perennials, shrubs and trees. The grass will grow back, but the plants and trees will not. Here is my general order for watering. Anything that has limp leaves on either the new or older growth gets watered first. Next, anything that was planted in the last 2-3 years. Older trees and shrubs have a more established root system and require less watering. Lastly, water anything in a planter or a pot. Containers always dry out more regularly. If yours are struggling, consider putting them in the shade.
• If you are running the tap to get your water hot or cold, consider filling the watering can instead of letting the water go down the drain. I keep a couple of watering cans near the sink so that once filled, they are ready when needed
• Put the stopper in the tub when taking a shower. The amount of soap that we use for an average shower is ideal for treating insects like aphids and thrips on your plants or living in the soil. Put this water in a spray bottle for applying to the leaves, or pour directly into the soil as the soap will not hurt the plants.

If your water costs are impacted by the municipal developments in the County, please know that you have my support. We are in this together and waste, when it comes to water or any of our resources, should never be taken lightly. It’s been a longer summer for the local gardening community and homeowners alike and I personally am here to help where I can.

carson@carsonarthur.com