Queensland Water Commission Queensland Water Commission: Target 170

Gardens

During times of drought, we can still have beautiful gardens – it just takes some thought and a little extra planning to ensure they are water efficient.

Medium Level Restrictions allow for extra water use outdoors and a water consumption target of 200 litres per person per day. Specifically:

  • Use of a single hand held hose (with twist/ trigger nozzle) for two 30 minute periods on allocated days to:
    • water gardens
    • wash cars
    • undertake general outdoor cleaning, such as wash houses and hose outdoor areas other than paths and driveways
  • Use of a bucket to:
    • water gardens between 4pm and 8am on any day except Monday
    • clean outdoors at any time
  • Use of efficient irrigation systems to water gardens.

Read more about efficient irrigation.

Tips for water-wise gardening

  • Install a rainwater tank and use the tank supply to water your garden, top up your pool or for other outdoor water uses.
  • Mulch your garden regularly to maintain moisture in the soil and control weeds that compete with plants for water.
  • Regularly check outdoor taps, pipes and plumbing fixtures for leaks.
  • Select drought-tolerant plants to reduce the water your garden needs.
  • Use wetting agents in your garden.
  • Before adding new plants to your garden, prepare the garden bed with good soil, water storing granules, wetting agents and thick layers of mulch to maximise water efficiency.
  • Group plants in the garden that require similar amounts of water.
  • Avoid watering when it is windy – wind causes water to evaporate and blows it to areas where it is not needed.
  • When choosing a lawn type, choose slow growing, water saving varieties like Palmetto. They have deep roots for tolerance and they don’t need mowing as much as other varieties.
  • Don’t cut the lawn too short, and remember that it will readily regenerate after a small amount of rain.

Useful information: