As a committed local Landscaper and Irrigation Specialist William Crabb has come out in support of Townsville City Council’s plea for responsible water use despite restrictions being lifted this week.
Mr Crabb is the Founder and Director of local business Plant-EM which champions education around and installation of water-efficient irrigation systems in Townsville and surrounds.
Industry Needs to Remain Vigilant Too
William said it was not only residents who had a responsibility to preserve our precious resource, but the Irrigation Industry itself.
“Lifting of the restrictions is fantastic news because it provides residents more freedom to choose when they water and it will allow a lot of irrigation systems, particularly in new developments, to work as they should and be less taxing on the water supply,” he said.
“But just because we are allowed to water from dusk till dawn three days a week, doesn’t mean we should. Depending on your watering method, an average size dry tropics lawn or garden needs between 15 – 30 minutes of water three times a week in Summer and less in cooler months.
“Our memories can be short and when restrictions ease there is always a concern that industry and residents become complacent about their water use and wasteful habits can re-emerge.
“At Plant-EM we will be mindful to remain diligent in delivering efficient watering advice and solutions for home owners and I would urge other landscapers and irrigation contractors to do the same,” he said.
“It’s never OK to waste water, even when we do have it in abundance. We know it is possible to use it responsibly and still have lawns and gardens that look good and enhance our lives.
Overwatering is Harmful Too
Overwatering your garden can be more damaging than underwatering because a lot of plants don’t like wet feet. The symptoms are very similar too, the soil cannot breathe and turns sour, roots rot and plants ultimately get sick and die.
On top of that, overwatering can encourage unwanted weed grass that loves to grow in swampy conditions.
Plant-EM’s tips for reducing water use include:
- Ensure your automatic irrigation system is delivering only what is needed for YOUR garden/lawn (many people over water through poor system set up).
- Water by season – reduce water in cooler months.
- Rain sensors, soil moisture monitoring props and weather stations can educate and shape your water use.
When should we water?
Lawns
- The best time to water lawns is in the early mornings. This reduces the amount of time the leaves stay wet.
- Reduced evaporation during early hours and allows the water to soak in.
Plants
- With sprays. Water the same as lawns.
- Drip. Water anytime. Better during the day when the plants require it.