6 Water-Wise Products for the Garden

If you're seriously looking to reduce your water usage and save money (and who isn‘t these days), here are 6 clever products engineered to do just that, plus they’re time-savers!

Terra-Sorb Drought-proof crystals
These non-toxic crystals absorb 200 times their weight in water, then release it gradually as plants need it. I used these on container plants while I was on vacation and they worked great!

Water Rings
five-gallon reservoir prevents water runoff and drought for newly planted trees and shrubs. You can even add fertilizer to the water. Great idea for new or thirsty plants.

Precision Drip Spikes
These dripper spikes ensure consistent and thorough watering. The drip reservoir has 11 dial-in settings that release ½ oz to 75 oz a day. A set of 4 holds standard 1- or 2- liter bottles (your own), and be used indoors or out. A great idea for recycling soda bottles.

Hydro Grow Hose
A slimmer, more flexible soaker hose that works perfect in flower or vegetable gardens for uniform watering.

Digital Water Timer
Easy to set! This gadget simplifies your water chores, and it has a handy "suspend" function for rainy days. A super time-saver when attached to a soaker hose.

All-Purpose Rain Barrel
Great for collecting rainwater for use on container or ground plantings.

Note: All of these products are available at Gardener’s Supply Co.

Here are some additional tips for reducing your water usage.

* Repair leaks in your outdoor hoses and faucets. Add a spray nozzle with a shut off valve to your hose, and shut the water flow off as needed when you’re in the garden.

* Water plants and lawn in the early morning hours to reduce water loss from evaporation.

* Add super-absorbent hydrogel crystals to container plantings to help retain moisture and reduce daily waterings.

* Add organic matter such as compost to your planting holes to help plants retain water.

* Use soaker hoses or drip irrigations systems (with a timer) when possible to reduce water loss from evaporation. They use 25% to 50% less water than sprinklers.

* Place mulch around plants to help retain water in the soil. It’s one of the most efficient ways to prevent moisture loss in the soil.

* Collect rainwater in a rain barrel to water indoor and outdoor plants.

* Replace dead plants with drought-tolerant varieties. Join Home Depot’s Garden Club and receive money-saving coupons for plants and products.

Visit Garden Bargains Online for the latest coupons, discounts and special offers on plants and garden products.

Leave us a comment, and share (with all of us) your tips for saving water in your garden.