Take Action: Landscape Improvement
Group Plants with Similar Watering Needs
Grouping plants with similar watering needs close together helps reduce unnecessary watering
When adding to or re-designing your landscaping, plants that require similar water needs can be planted together. Grouping plants in this way helps to make watering easier and reduces the amount of unnecessary watering – good for both you and your plants! Check the Water Use Classifications of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) database for plant watering needs based on region or check the South Coast Water Districts Plant List for watering details on common plants (once you’ve selected a plant type, click on “Culture” on the upper right corner for water requirements).
Who Should Do This?
Anyone who likes to garden! Grouping plants can be done by anyone and at any time. Check with the UC Master Gardeners of Orange County to find out the best time of year to plant certain plants.
How Long Will It Take?
Planning out which plants have similar watering needs takes time, as well as the time it takes to plant your choices. This time will vary based on how many and what type of plants you have chosen.
How Much Does It Cost?
Grouping plants by similar water needs does not have to cost more than regular plantings. This includes the cost of the plants that you choose for your landscape. Look for plants that grow quickly, or that you can propagate yourself, to reduce cost and time spent gardening.
What are the Benefits?
- Make your watering schedule easier
- Avoids over or underwatering of plants, which encourages greater plant health & vibrancy
- Reduces amount of water needed
What is Needed to Get Started?
- Knowledge of plants water requirements
- Gardening gloves
- Shovel
- Plants to group
Did You Know?
Grouping plants with similar water needs can help to make your watering schedule easier! Since different types of irrigation (drip system, spray heads, etc.) apply water at different rates, it is easier to create water “zones” when plants are grouped appropriately. This can cut down on water costs as well as amount of water needed to maintain optimal plant health.
Resources
Landscape & Sustainable Water Use Guide
Proper Maintenance of Landscapes & Gardens To Protect Our Waterways
If you are interested in doing a complete water-wise overhaul of your existing landscape, click here to see if you are eligible for a rebate!
Database of plant watering needs based on region: click here.
Information on plant types through the South Coast Water District’s website: click here.
Tips on native California gardening: click here.
General information on water needs of plants: click here.
List of fire-resistant California-friendly plants: click here.
My Commitment: Group Plants with Similar Watering Needs
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