How can small gardens maximize water conservation?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Small gardens offer truly amazing water-saving methods due to their limited area being maximized through various techniques. Self-watering containers with reservoirs built-in allow for consistent moisture without everyday attention. Vertical planting minimizes ground exposure and evaporation considerably. I use vessel gardening methods and grow herbs throughout the entire year, and use 70% less water than other types of gardens.
Install micro-drip irrigation specifically made for tight spaces. Use precision emitters attached to small tubing that fits tight spaces, like mine, where 15 plants are serviced by one faucet. These systems drip water directly onto the roots, minimizing evaporation. Combine with timers for fully automated water-saving care.
Container Selection
- Choose glazed ceramic pots for reduced evaporation
- Use self-watering containers with reservoir systems
- Select lighter colors to reflect heat
- Group pots to create humidity microclimates
Soil Management
- Mix water-absorbing polymers into potting soil
- Apply 1-inch mulch layer on soil surface
- Use moisture-retentive coconut coir amendments
- Check drainage holes weekly for clogs
Use vertical gardening to save space and water. Wall planters and tower systems dramatically expand growing area without increasing footprint. My vertical herb garden incorporates capillary matting that efficiently draws water upward. These structures provide shaded microclimates that many times decrease container evaporation rates.
Select compact plant types designed for small spaces and limited water availability. Dwarf fruit trees, such as columnar apples, are well-suited for container gardening and require very little water. Miniature vegetable varieties yield that are full-sized but only need a smaller amount of soil. Bush cucumbers in my patio garden only need watering once a week. These plants are bred naturally for water and nutrient efficiency, yet produce an abundance.
Utilize strategies together to conserve resources in small gardens. For example, use self-watering containers in conjunction with a vertical drip irrigation system, or incorporate water-storing crystals into your potting mix. My 10x10 ft space, which is quite small, mostly produces food for two people when I use these strategies. To begin, select one water-saving strategy and build upon those successes. Small gardens will certainly prove that conservation can happen in any size garden.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Water Conservation Gardening Tips
