Tips Improve your soil by adding organic matter Dig organic matter into your soul to improve its moisture-holding ability. This will help you avoid watering as frequently. Mulch your plantings. An organic layer of mulch, such as compost or shredded bark, put on the surface of your soil holds the water you've applied and reduces weed germination. Pick woody mulch for trees and shrubs, or use a composted material for annual and perennial plantings.
Water lawns wisely.
Avoid watering between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to minimize evaporation or disease. Aerate lawns to improve water penetration. Water lawns no more than one inch per week to keep them green. Use efficient watering systems Soaker hoses or drip irrigation send water directly down to the roots, minimizing water lost to evaporation or runoff. When you buy plants, choose low water use plants for immediate beauty and future water savings.