Conserving Water Outdoors

Use water wisely while caring for your outdoor spaces

Outdoor water use can add up quickly, especially during warmer months when lawns, gardens and landscapes need extra care. Many plant problems come from overwatering rather than underwatering, and an inefficient sprinkler can deliver as much as 300 gallons an hour onto a lawn.

During dry periods, landscape watering can consume up to 75% of a household’s total water bill. By watering wisely and choosing water-friendly landscaping practices, you can help reduce waste, lower costs and protect the water resources Hampton Roads depends on.

Save Water Outdoors

Outdoor water use can increase quickly during warmer months, especially when watering lawns, gardens and landscapes. Watering wisely helps protect local water resources while keeping outdoor spaces healthy.

Outdoor water-saving tips:

Use a hose nozzle to turn water on and off when washing your car or watering plants
Water when the sun is low, winds are calm and temperatures are cooler to reduce evaporation
Water during early morning hours when possible
Adjust your watering schedule to the season
Install a rain barrel to collect rainwater for your lawn, garden or car washing
Install water-efficient drip irrigation systems for your landscape
Set sprinklers to water plants, not driveways, sidewalks, patios or buildings

Plant and Landscape Responsibly

The plants and landscaping choices around your home can make water conservation easier. Choosing the right plants, improving soil and grouping plants by water needs can help your yard use water more efficiently.

Water-wise landscaping tips:

Add organic materials, like compost, to planted beds to improve their ability to hold water and air
Plant native plants, which typically need less water and fertilizer and have fewer pest problems than non-native plants
When using non-native plants, choose drought-tolerant options such as:
- bulbs or rhizomes like daffodils, canna lilies and irises
- plants with thick, fleshy leaves (like ice plant, sedum and portulaca) or thin, narrow leaves (like butterfly weed and most herbs)
- plants with hairy foliage (like lamb’s ear)
- grasses from sandy, coastal areas
Group plants with similar watering needs together
Keep areas clear of weeds that take water away from your plants
Reduce areas of thirsty turf grass by adding more mulched beds
Use mulch to help plants retain moisture, minimize weeds and stay cooler

Make Every Drop Count Outdoors

Watering wisely helps your yard stay healthy while reducing water waste. By adjusting when and how you water, choosing plants that fit our region and using water-friendly landscaping practices, you can care for your outdoor spaces while using less water.

Learn More Water-Saving Tips