By Mindy McIntosh-Shetter

As the news rolls across my computer screen, I pick up on what is becoming a yearly occurrence it seems and that is a wide spread drought.

Many third world countries continue to suffer from drought conditions and shortages of food but the United States.

My response to this is YES the United States. While we can spend time on arguing over what and who is responsible, I like to act in a proactive way.

Since gardening, in recent years, has experienced resurgence, I feel we, gardeners, should share in responsible water use.

To begin this process, we first need to know what choices we have in water conservation.

Gray Water

Gray water is water from that contains only soap no waste. Water from washing dishes, brushing your teeth and even taking a shower can be processed and used to water the garden. Some equipment is required and some cities have regulations on gray water use so check before using.

This is a great reuse of our water resources that we use everyday.

Cooking Water

Many things that are Read the rest of this entry »

By Vanessa Richins

One of the most common problems in a garden is over-watering.

Even though one may have the best intentions, plants are usually given much more water than they really need. Here are some tips on how to save water in your urban landscape.

1) One of my most important rules is pretty simple : In the summer, don’t water between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm.

Why? During those times, it is usually hot enough that the water will only vaporize, and most of the water won’t reach the plants If you have plants that are wilting, you can certainly give them a good long drink. Otherwise, Read the rest of this entry »