Location via proxy:   [ UP ]  
[Report a bug]   [Manage cookies]                
SlideShare a Scribd company logo

Waterwise Gardening: A Guide for British Columbia's Lower Mainland - Metro Vancouver

•
•
F
Fiorella58v

Water conservation is important in the Lower Mainland due to limited water storage and population growth increasing demand. The summer months see lawn sprinkling restrictions to ensure sufficient water. Waterwise gardening uses drought-resistant plants well-suited to the local wet-winter/dry-summer climate that need less watering once established. Careful planning of plant groupings according to water needs and site conditions helps create sustainable gardens.

1 of 12
Waterwise Gardening: A Guide for British Columbia's Lower Mainland - Metro Vancouver
L ower Mainlanders love to garden. We nurture tiny seedlings, encourage showy perennials and harvest colourful flowers. For most of the year, Greater Vancouver receives enough rain to keep gardens adequately watered. However, the summer months are usually dry, and the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) and its member municipalities regulate lawn sprinkling to ensure there is sufficient water available. Waterwise gardening means selecting and maintaining plants that can survive long periods without water. There are many species of plants Lupine UBC Botanical Garden available at local nurseries that can thrive in our dry summer and wet winter conditions. In addition to being pleasing MANY SPECIES of DROUGHT - to the eye, the Lower Mainland’s RESISTANT PLANTS ARE AVAILABLE plants provide shade, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen AT L OCAL G ARDEN C ENTRES Mock orange into our urban environment. Philadelphus lewisii Gardening practices that enhance the environmental benefits of plants benefit us all. This brochure introduces you to waterwise gardening. It describes the basic principles of this method of gardening and includes a directory of additional resources. A plant list gives suggestions for additions to your waterwise garden. E LEMENTS OF W ATERWISE G ARDENING There’s nothing difficult about waterwise gardening – it’s just about planting appropriate plants planning and design and ensuring they are planted and cared for properly. soil analysis and improvements You can conserve our precious water resource while appropriate plant selection cultivating a healthy, attractive garden. efficient lawn areas efficient irrigation mulching appropriate maintenance
WHY CONSERVE WATER? PLANNING AND ESTABLISHING YOUR GARDEN O n the B.C. southwest coast, we are used to living with rain – lots of rain. So why do homeowners face lawn sprinkling regulations from June through September? The answer lies in our region’s limited ability C reating a waterwise garden requires careful planning. Consider the changes that would make your garden water-thrifty. Can you incorporate drought-resistant plants into your garden? When planning your garden, group plants to store water. Much of the rainfall and snowmelt in according to their water needs. Southern exposure the watersheds cannot be stored for use during dry areas, which dry out faster in direct sunlight, suit weather. Population growth in the Lower Mainland plants that have low water requirements. Plants in has also led to increased demand for water. The GVRD areas of shady northern exposure need less supplies drinking water to two million residents in 18 water. Thirsty plants can be grouped municipalities. Outdoor use accounts for about 25 per together for easier watering. cent of total water consumption, with a great deal of Recognize that if you plant under that water going towards keeping our gardens alive established trees or in weedy and our lawns green during the summer. Since 1993, areas, the new plants must the GVRD has implemented lawn sprinkling restrictions compete for water, making to conserve water and prevent water shortages in the it more difficult for the plants event of drought conditions. to get established. By conserving water, we help maintain our quality Kinnikinnick Giving your plants a good of life in the Lower Mainland. With thoughtful planning Arctostaphylos uva-ursi start will help them be waterwise and appropriate plants, we can enjoy healthy gardens in the future. Fall planting is recommended because and lawns that survive well year-round. most plants are adapted to growing roots in the fall and winter when it rains the most. It’s also important that the planting site have good drainage. Although soil should retain some MONTHLY PRECIPITATION AND CONSUMPTION * moisture to act as a reservoir for the plant’s roots, these roots shouldn’t become waterlogged. 1300 450 The planting site should have adequate drainage 1250 400 to prevent water from pooling in wet weather. 1200 350 Consumption (ML/day) Creating a waterwise garden is a wonderful 1150 300 Precipitation (mm) learning experience. The Resources section at the 1100 250 1050 Average Consumption 200 end of this brochure provides more sources of 1000 150 guidance about waterwise gardening. 950 100 Average Precipitation 900 50 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec * Measurements from Cleveland Dam 2 3
SOIL: THE FOUNDATION OF A HEALTHY AND W ATERWISE G ARDEN N utritious, water-retentive and well-drained soil is fundamental to a waterwise garden. The key is to know what type of soil each plant needs for ideal growth. Some plants thrive in sandy soil that drains quickly; others need soil with the ability to retain more water. The acidity of the soil is also important. Most west coast gardens are acidic due to the large amount UBC Botanical Garden of rainfall in our region – the rain leaches minerals from the soil, leaving mostly organic matter, which is naturally acidic. Choose plants that do well in acidic soil, or add lime to reduce the acid level. All plants benefit from the addition of organic matter to the soil. Organic matter increases the soil’s ability to hold water and air while improving its NUTRITIOUS, WELL-DRAINING nutrient content. The best organic matter to add to the soil SOIL IS F UNDAMENTAL is compost. However, manure, composted ground TO A W ATERWISE G ARDEN bark or partially broken-down leaves are also effective. Non-decomposed materials, such as “raw” bark or green leaves, should not be added directly to the soil. They will tie up the nitrogen in the soil as breakdown occurs, robbing the plants of an element essential for growth. Before planting, work the material into the soil with thorough digging or tilling to incorporate air and improve drainage. Annual additions of organic matter WHAT IS COMPOST? or compost to the top of the soil will help keep it nutrient-rich. Compost results from the natural breakdown of food and garden trimmings. The compost you make at home is an excellent soil conditioner. By adding compost to your garden, you help the soil retain nutrients, moisture and air, which support healthy plants. 4 5
SELECTING WATERWISE PLANTS SELECTING TURF GRASSES C hoosing plants is one of the most exciting parts of creating your waterwise garden. Local garden centres carry a variety of non-invasive drought-resistant plants (trees, shrubs, groundcover, perennials) in both native and T here are many types of turf grasses, available in different mixtures. Consult with a sod supplier (look in the Yellow Pages under “Turf”) or your local garden centre about a mixture that best suits your needs. ornamental species. Here are some questions to consider : When buying plants, look for: What is the condition of the soil in the planting area? Even the most drought-hardy grass will not grow  full, healthy leaves well if it is planted in poor conditions. Soil should  balance between top growth and size of pot be at least 15 centimetres thick, but preferably 30  good colour, with no yellowing. centimetres thick and should be nutrient-rich, well When starting a waterwise garden, you might aerated and well drained. want to experiment with a small area first. It can What will the grass area be used for? be difficult to introduce a new plant to an existing Most seed and sod suppliers will recommend a planting area as the established plants are better different grass for areas that get high use (such as equipped to draw water out of the soil. In this play areas) than they would for areas that see little situation, pay particular attention to watering use. Be sure to ask your supplier how the grass will the new plant to help it get established. wear – sometimes a brown lawn is caused not by Most B.C. native plants grow when there is lots lack of water but simply by being worn down. of moisture and go dormant when the weather turns drier, which makes them ideal for our waterwise How much water does the turf actually need gardens. Walking around natural areas near your in order to grow? home will give you an idea of which native plants do Not all grass needs the same amount of water. Your well in your area. Keep in mind, however, that most supplier should be able to tell you which grasses use residential gardens do not provide native conditions water most efficiently. Grass that creates long, sturdy – our soils aren’t native and our landscaped gardens root systems is good because the roots can store are in fact “disturbed sites.” water for later use. Ornamental plants are not native to our region, How will the grass survive during dry periods? but many species thrive here because of a shared Be sure to ask your supplier how the grass will native climate. English Lavender is a good example manage if it doesn’t get watered during warm, dry of a drought-resistant ornamental plant that is well periods, and if it will simply go dormant or if it will adapted to our climate. be damaged. If a green lawn is important to you, The plant list on the following pages provides ask about grass that stays green longer during the names of widely available non-invasive waterwise dry periods. plants suitable for our climate. Your local nursery can identify any special needs of plants that interest you. 6 7
WATERWISE P LANTS FOR THE LOWER MAINLAND C O M M O N N O N -I N VA S I V E D R O U G H T -T O L E RA N T S H R U B S AND CLIMBERS SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME MATURE SIZE EVERGREEN SUN PART SHADE WELL- HEIGHT X SPREAD SHADE DRAINED SOIL Arbutus unedo strawberry tree 8m x 8m • • • • Amelanchier alnifolia Saskatoon berry 1-5m x 1m • • Arctostaphylos uva-ursi kinnikinnick 10cm x 2m • • • Holodiscus discolor oceanspray 3-5m x 3-5m • • • Camellia species camellia 1.5-2.5m x 1-2m • • • • Ceanothus species California lilac 1-3m x 3-4m • • • Chaenomeles species Japanese quince, japonica 1.5-2.5m x 2-3m • Cotinus coggygria smoke bush 5m x 5m • • Juniperus species juniper 20cm-20m x 4-7m • • • Mahonia aquifolium Oregon grape 1-3m x 1m • • • • • Osmanthus species osmanthus 2-5m x 2-5m • • • Philadelphus species mock orange 1-2m x 2-5m • • Rhus species sumac 2.5-5m x 2.5-6m • • Ribes sanguineum red flowering currant 1.5m x 1m • • Rosa nutkana Nootka rose 1-3 m x 1-2.5m • • Salix scouleriana Scouler’s willow 2-12 m x 1.5m • • Sambucus cerulea blue elderberry 3-6m x 1-2m • • Sarcococca species Christmas box 40-100cm x 80-120cm • • • Shepherdia canadensis soapberry 1-3m x 1-2m • • Symphoricarpos species snowberry 2-2.5m x 2-2.5m • • • INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES IN GREATER VANCOUVER Invasive species are a growing problem in Greater Vancouver. Before you buy, take some time to learn a bit about the most What distinguishes an invasive species from a weed? Invasive common invasive plant species in the region and some healthier plants are non-native and grow so rapidly or spread so quickly alternatives. The GVRD has produced a brochure Help Stop the that they overwhelm native plant species that wildlife depend Spread of Invasive Plants, available along with other information on for food and shelter. Invasive plant species can also cause at www.parkpartners.ca/gvipc/ erosion, increased fire hazard and other problems. Some contain chemical compounds that are toxic to people, pets and wildlife. 8 9
C O M M O N D R O U G H T -T O L E R A N T T R E E S SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME MATURE SIZE EVERGREEN SUN PART SHADE WELL- HEIGHT X SPREAD SHADE DRAINED SOIL Arbutus menziesii arbutus 15-20m x 8-10m • • Gleditsia triacanthos honey locust 8 -18m x 6-8 m • • Picea species spruce 8 -30 m x 4-6 m • • • Pinus species pine 6-25 m x 3-7 m • • • Quercus species oak 8-25m x 6-15 m • Sciadopitys verticillata Japanese umbrella pine 10-20 m x 6-8 m • • • • Thuja plicata western red cedar 20-35 m x 6-9 m • • • • • C O M M O N N O N -I N VA S I V E D R O U G H T -T O L E R A N T P E R E N N I A L S SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME MATURE SIZE EVERGREEN SUN PART SHADE WELL- HEIGHT X SPREAD SHADE DRAINED SOIL Achillea species yarrow 25-150cm x 25-150cm • Arabis species rock cress 5-10cm x 20-30cm • • • Anaphalis margaratacea pearly everlasting 30-100cm x 25-150cm • Armeria maritima common thrift 20-50cm x 30cm • • • Bergenia cordifolia heartleaf bergenia 20-60cm x 45-75cm • • • bulbs and corms daffodil, crocus, etc. 10-100cm x 10-50cm • • • Cerastium tomentosum snow-in-summer 5-8cm x indefinite • • • Festuca glauca blue fescue grass 30cm x 25cm • • • • Fragraria chiloensis coastal strawberry 0cm x 20cm • • Gaillardia grandiflora blanket flower 30-90cm x 45-80cm • • Gaura lindheimeri butterfly flower, white gaura 120cm x 90cm • • Helleborus species hellebore 30-100cm x 45-90cm • • • • Lavandula angustifolia English lavender 20-45cm x 30-50cm • • • Lupinus species lupine 50cm-1m x 30-50cm • • Paeonia lactiflora peony 50-70cm x 50-70cm • • Perovskia atriplicifolia Russian sage 150cm x 100cm • • Polygonatum species Solomon’s seal 80-100cm x 60cm • Saxifraga umbrosa London pride 25cm x 60cm • • • • • Sedum species stonecrop 5-50cm x 30-60cm • • • • Stachys byzantina lamb’s ears 45cm x 60cm • • • • Tanacetum coccineum painted daisy 45-75cm x 45cm • Yucca species yucca 60-120cm x 80-100cm • • • 10 11
MULCH, MULCH, MULCH ! M ulching is one of the best ways to conserve water in your garden. Mulch – a layer of coarse material placed on top of the soil – preserves moisture by reducing soil temperature. It shelters the ground from drying winds, slowing the rate of evaporation from the soil. Mulch also reduces erosion by diffusing the force of water before it reaches the soil – the water gently seeps from the mulch into the ground. It discourages weed growth by burying seeds. And while decomposing it improves topsoil condition. If you are mulching to improve the soil, use a thin layer so it can break down. If you are using mulching to slow evaporation (any organic material will do), Lavender UBC Botanical Garden use a thicker layer and top it up regularly. Fine material breaks down quickly; chunkier mulch lasts longer. PLANTS PROTECTED Organic mulches include wood or bark chips, BY M ULCH R EQUIRE L ESS leaves, grass clippings, manure and compost. As they decompose, they contribute nutrients to the FREQUENT WATERING soil. The material should be applied 7-10 centimetres deep with more shallow distribution around smaller plants, tree trunks and new plantings. Keep mulches away from plant stems. Organic mulches need to be “topped up” regularly. Inorganic mulches do not contribute nutrients to the soil, but they can still help conserve water. Rocks, available in varying sizes and shapes, are a permanent ground cover that help prevent erosion and limit weeds, too. Swallow tail butterfly UBC Botanical Garden 13 12
WATERWISE LAWNS EFFICIENT IRRIGATION T ry looking at your lawn from a new perspective. Can you modify your lawn area or tolerate a dormant lawn? Consider low-water-use varieties of grass, shrubs or ground cover. T he idea of waterwise gardening is that plants can survive without additional water once established. However, when you choose to irrigate (such as during drought conditions), there are ways to use water efficiently: There are many ways to care for your lawn in  Sprinklers should not mist. Larger drops are a waterwise way. Lawns go dormant during hot, dry less likely to evaporate or get blown away and weather, but they recover when the weather becomes more likely to reach their intended destination. cooler and wetter. Evaporation and general root stress decrease significantly when you let your grass grow  Irrigation systems can make watering easier, longer in the summer. The recommended lawn height but they can also waste water if not installed, is eight to 10 centimetres, and you shouldn’t remove maintained and operated properly. Your system any more than one-third of the grass blade length at should be designed and installed by a certified each cutting. Here are a few other tips to save water irrigation system designer. Consider requiring a while maintaining a healthy lawn: “Class A” contractor, as certified by the Irrigation Industry Association of B.C.  Consult with your local garden centre about low- water-use varieties of lawn seed. Ask your supplier  Keep water pressure at an appropriate level to stock them. Avoid high maintenance grasses, and keep your irrigation system well maintained such as turf used for golf greens. and scheduled properly. All automatic irrigation systems should have a properly installed rain  Water only when the lawn needs it. Most lawns sensor so they don’t operate when sufficient only need sprinkling once a week to a depth rain has fallen. of 2.5 centimetres.  Soaker hoses are an inexpensive and effective way  Water during the coolest part of the day. Early to water gardens, shrub borders and trees. These morning is best because it reduces the amount devices allow small amounts of water to seep into of water lost to evaporation. the soil, avoiding runoff and making it easy for  Consider watering only a portion of your lawn, water to penetrate deep into the soil, so the plant such as the part that is seen most. Let the rest can store it for future use. Soaker hoses are not go dormant – it will revive quickly after a good generally an efficient way to water lawns. rainfall or when the weather becomes cooler.  Minimize water use by being familiar enough  Reduce the amount of fertilizer added in summer. with the garden to know which areas need water, how much and how often. Water only  Sharpen mower blades frequently. when it’s necessary.  Use a mulching mower and leave grass clippings on the lawn during the summer.  Gardens, trees and shrubs need to be watered during warm, dry weather. For this reason they are exempt from lawn sprinkling regulations. 14 15
APPROPRIATE LAWN AND GARDEN LOCAL WATERWISE GARDEN MAINTENANCE RESOURCES W  hen it comes to taking care of your lawn and garden, a bit of planning and care can save a lot of water. Reapply mulch as needed so it can keep LOCAL GARDENS Botanical gardens are great places to learn about new plants. Local gardens display many varieties of drought-resistant plants. doing its job. UBC Botanical Garden  If you have an irrigation system, make sure 6804 Southwest Marine Drive, Vancouver it is properly designed, installed, scheduled VanDusen Botanical Garden and maintained. 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver  Pull weeds regularly so plants don’t have to compete for available moisture. COMPOST DEMONSTRATION GARDENS  Protect our waterways by eliminating unnecessary There are 10 compost demonstration gardens pesticide usage (the term pesticides includes located in various municipalities throughout herbicides, fungicides and insecticides). the Lower Mainland. The following seven gardens explicitly demonstrate waterwise gardening.  Choosing the right plant for an areas particular growing conditions will help prevent pest and Burnaby Compost Demonstration Garden disease problems. 4856 Still Creek Ave, Burnaby  Learn about beneficial insects already at work McKitrick Earthwise Garden in your garden. 80th Avenue and 111th Street in North Delta  As a last resort, check your municipal by-laws Port Haney Compost Education Garden for reduce risk products that may be used 11739 - 223rd Street Maple Ridge sparingly on areas of concern, rather than Langley Compost Demonstration Garden blanketing an entire area. 49th Ave. at 221 Street, Langley Township Park and Tilford Gardens 440 - 333 Brooksbank Avenue, North Vancouver Richmond Waterwise Demonstration Garden 2631 Westminster Highway in the Terra Nova Rural Park, Richmond Vancouver Compost Demonstration Garden 2150 Maple Street, Vancouver For information about composting or local compost demonstration gardens, call the Winter-blooming camellia UBC Botanical Garden Compost Hotline at 604-736-2250. 16 17
GARDEN CENTRES AND NURSERIES PUBLICATIONS Visit your neighbourhood garden centre or nursery Want to learn more about waterwise gardening? to consult with staff. Ask to see the drought-resistant Check your local library or book store for varieties of plants they have in stock. these resources: COURSES LOCAL Many colleges and continuing education programs Bennett, Jennifer Dry Land Gardening offer gardening courses on weekends or weeknights. Contact your local school board or post-secondary Kruckeberg, Arthur R. institution for course descriptions. Many courses Gardening with Native Plants of the Pacific Northwest are offered by: Pettinger, April Capilano College Landscape/ Native Plants for the Coastal Garden Horticulture Program 604-984-4960 Pojar, Jim and MacKinnon, Andy Plants of Coastal British Columbia Kwantlen University College Horticulture Program Tarrant, David 604-599-3254 David Tarrant’s Pacific Gardening Guide UBC Botanical Garden Stechert Black, Kathryn 604-822-3928 Sunset Western Garden Book VanDusen Botanical Garden 604-257-8666 Stevens, Elaine et al. Twelve-Month Gardener: A West Coast Guide ORGANIZATIONS AND GARDEN CLUBS Whysall, Steve 100 Best Plants for the Coastal Garden BC Council of Garden Clubs 604-530-2035 GENERAL BC Landscape and Nursery Chatto, Beth. Association (BCLNA) The Dry Garden 604-574-7772 Vancouver Natural History Society Ellefson, Stephens, Welsh, Maxwell. 604-737-3074 Xeriscape Gardening Naturescape British Columbia Taylor, Jane www.hctf.ca/nature.htm Plants for a Dry Garden 1-800-387-9853, Ext. 5 Waterwise Gardening: Beautiful Gardens with Less Water Native Plant Society of British Columbia The editors of Sunset books and Sunset magazine 604-255-5719 Wildflower Box 335, Postal Station F Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 2L7 www.wildflowermag.com 18 19
OTHER GVRD ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES HOME PAGES: CHOICES FOR WISER LIVING Turn to the ‘Home Pages: Choices for wiser living’ in the front section of your White telephone directory for simple ideas that will reward you and the environment. Some will save you time. Many will save you money. COMPOSTING – THE NATURAL WAY TO RECYCLE Did you know that organic waste (food and garden trimmings) makes up 32 per cent of the garbage that goes to our landfill? To find out how you can backyard compost or worm compost, call the Compost Hotline at 604-736-2250. Baby hummingbirds John Dyson AIR QUALITY The 24-hour regional air quality complaint line is 604-436-6777. THANKS TO ATTENTION CLASSROOM Doug Justice, AND COMMUNITY EDUCATORS UBC Botanical Gardens The GVRD develops resources and delivers workshops Dawn Hanna, on regionally-relevant environmental topics filled with BC Invasive Plant Council engaging activities for K-12 audiences. To learn more, Allan O’Connor, contact the GVRD Information Centre or visit: Creative Garden Services www.gvrd.bc.ca/education. BC Landscape and Nursery Association Capital Regional District – Water Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary The Corporation of Delta The City of Vancouver City Farmer GardenWorks Art Knapp Plantland 20

More Related Content

Waterwise Gardening: A Guide for British Columbia's Lower Mainland - Metro Vancouver

  • 2. L ower Mainlanders love to garden. We nurture tiny seedlings, encourage showy perennials and harvest colourful flowers. For most of the year, Greater Vancouver receives enough rain to keep gardens adequately watered. However, the summer months are usually dry, and the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) and its member municipalities regulate lawn sprinkling to ensure there is sufficient water available. Waterwise gardening means selecting and maintaining plants that can survive long periods without water. There are many species of plants Lupine UBC Botanical Garden available at local nurseries that can thrive in our dry summer and wet winter conditions. In addition to being pleasing MANY SPECIES of DROUGHT - to the eye, the Lower Mainland’s RESISTANT PLANTS ARE AVAILABLE plants provide shade, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen AT L OCAL G ARDEN C ENTRES Mock orange into our urban environment. Philadelphus lewisii Gardening practices that enhance the environmental benefits of plants benefit us all. This brochure introduces you to waterwise gardening. It describes the basic principles of this method of gardening and includes a directory of additional resources. A plant list gives suggestions for additions to your waterwise garden. E LEMENTS OF W ATERWISE G ARDENING There’s nothing difficult about waterwise gardening – it’s just about planting appropriate plants planning and design and ensuring they are planted and cared for properly. soil analysis and improvements You can conserve our precious water resource while appropriate plant selection cultivating a healthy, attractive garden. efficient lawn areas efficient irrigation mulching appropriate maintenance
  • 3. WHY CONSERVE WATER? PLANNING AND ESTABLISHING YOUR GARDEN O n the B.C. southwest coast, we are used to living with rain – lots of rain. So why do homeowners face lawn sprinkling regulations from June through September? The answer lies in our region’s limited ability C reating a waterwise garden requires careful planning. Consider the changes that would make your garden water-thrifty. Can you incorporate drought-resistant plants into your garden? When planning your garden, group plants to store water. Much of the rainfall and snowmelt in according to their water needs. Southern exposure the watersheds cannot be stored for use during dry areas, which dry out faster in direct sunlight, suit weather. Population growth in the Lower Mainland plants that have low water requirements. Plants in has also led to increased demand for water. The GVRD areas of shady northern exposure need less supplies drinking water to two million residents in 18 water. Thirsty plants can be grouped municipalities. Outdoor use accounts for about 25 per together for easier watering. cent of total water consumption, with a great deal of Recognize that if you plant under that water going towards keeping our gardens alive established trees or in weedy and our lawns green during the summer. Since 1993, areas, the new plants must the GVRD has implemented lawn sprinkling restrictions compete for water, making to conserve water and prevent water shortages in the it more difficult for the plants event of drought conditions. to get established. By conserving water, we help maintain our quality Kinnikinnick Giving your plants a good of life in the Lower Mainland. With thoughtful planning Arctostaphylos uva-ursi start will help them be waterwise and appropriate plants, we can enjoy healthy gardens in the future. Fall planting is recommended because and lawns that survive well year-round. most plants are adapted to growing roots in the fall and winter when it rains the most. It’s also important that the planting site have good drainage. Although soil should retain some MONTHLY PRECIPITATION AND CONSUMPTION * moisture to act as a reservoir for the plant’s roots, these roots shouldn’t become waterlogged. 1300 450 The planting site should have adequate drainage 1250 400 to prevent water from pooling in wet weather. 1200 350 Consumption (ML/day) Creating a waterwise garden is a wonderful 1150 300 Precipitation (mm) learning experience. The Resources section at the 1100 250 1050 Average Consumption 200 end of this brochure provides more sources of 1000 150 guidance about waterwise gardening. 950 100 Average Precipitation 900 50 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec * Measurements from Cleveland Dam 2 3
  • 4. SOIL: THE FOUNDATION OF A HEALTHY AND W ATERWISE G ARDEN N utritious, water-retentive and well-drained soil is fundamental to a waterwise garden. The key is to know what type of soil each plant needs for ideal growth. Some plants thrive in sandy soil that drains quickly; others need soil with the ability to retain more water. The acidity of the soil is also important. Most west coast gardens are acidic due to the large amount UBC Botanical Garden of rainfall in our region – the rain leaches minerals from the soil, leaving mostly organic matter, which is naturally acidic. Choose plants that do well in acidic soil, or add lime to reduce the acid level. All plants benefit from the addition of organic matter to the soil. Organic matter increases the soil’s ability to hold water and air while improving its NUTRITIOUS, WELL-DRAINING nutrient content. The best organic matter to add to the soil SOIL IS F UNDAMENTAL is compost. However, manure, composted ground TO A W ATERWISE G ARDEN bark or partially broken-down leaves are also effective. Non-decomposed materials, such as “raw” bark or green leaves, should not be added directly to the soil. They will tie up the nitrogen in the soil as breakdown occurs, robbing the plants of an element essential for growth. Before planting, work the material into the soil with thorough digging or tilling to incorporate air and improve drainage. Annual additions of organic matter WHAT IS COMPOST? or compost to the top of the soil will help keep it nutrient-rich. Compost results from the natural breakdown of food and garden trimmings. The compost you make at home is an excellent soil conditioner. By adding compost to your garden, you help the soil retain nutrients, moisture and air, which support healthy plants. 4 5
  • 5. SELECTING WATERWISE PLANTS SELECTING TURF GRASSES C hoosing plants is one of the most exciting parts of creating your waterwise garden. Local garden centres carry a variety of non-invasive drought-resistant plants (trees, shrubs, groundcover, perennials) in both native and T here are many types of turf grasses, available in different mixtures. Consult with a sod supplier (look in the Yellow Pages under “Turf”) or your local garden centre about a mixture that best suits your needs. ornamental species. Here are some questions to consider : When buying plants, look for: What is the condition of the soil in the planting area? Even the most drought-hardy grass will not grow  full, healthy leaves well if it is planted in poor conditions. Soil should  balance between top growth and size of pot be at least 15 centimetres thick, but preferably 30  good colour, with no yellowing. centimetres thick and should be nutrient-rich, well When starting a waterwise garden, you might aerated and well drained. want to experiment with a small area first. It can What will the grass area be used for? be difficult to introduce a new plant to an existing Most seed and sod suppliers will recommend a planting area as the established plants are better different grass for areas that get high use (such as equipped to draw water out of the soil. In this play areas) than they would for areas that see little situation, pay particular attention to watering use. Be sure to ask your supplier how the grass will the new plant to help it get established. wear – sometimes a brown lawn is caused not by Most B.C. native plants grow when there is lots lack of water but simply by being worn down. of moisture and go dormant when the weather turns drier, which makes them ideal for our waterwise How much water does the turf actually need gardens. Walking around natural areas near your in order to grow? home will give you an idea of which native plants do Not all grass needs the same amount of water. Your well in your area. Keep in mind, however, that most supplier should be able to tell you which grasses use residential gardens do not provide native conditions water most efficiently. Grass that creates long, sturdy – our soils aren’t native and our landscaped gardens root systems is good because the roots can store are in fact “disturbed sites.” water for later use. Ornamental plants are not native to our region, How will the grass survive during dry periods? but many species thrive here because of a shared Be sure to ask your supplier how the grass will native climate. English Lavender is a good example manage if it doesn’t get watered during warm, dry of a drought-resistant ornamental plant that is well periods, and if it will simply go dormant or if it will adapted to our climate. be damaged. If a green lawn is important to you, The plant list on the following pages provides ask about grass that stays green longer during the names of widely available non-invasive waterwise dry periods. plants suitable for our climate. Your local nursery can identify any special needs of plants that interest you. 6 7
  • 6. WATERWISE P LANTS FOR THE LOWER MAINLAND C O M M O N N O N -I N VA S I V E D R O U G H T -T O L E RA N T S H R U B S AND CLIMBERS SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME MATURE SIZE EVERGREEN SUN PART SHADE WELL- HEIGHT X SPREAD SHADE DRAINED SOIL Arbutus unedo strawberry tree 8m x 8m • • • • Amelanchier alnifolia Saskatoon berry 1-5m x 1m • • Arctostaphylos uva-ursi kinnikinnick 10cm x 2m • • • Holodiscus discolor oceanspray 3-5m x 3-5m • • • Camellia species camellia 1.5-2.5m x 1-2m • • • • Ceanothus species California lilac 1-3m x 3-4m • • • Chaenomeles species Japanese quince, japonica 1.5-2.5m x 2-3m • Cotinus coggygria smoke bush 5m x 5m • • Juniperus species juniper 20cm-20m x 4-7m • • • Mahonia aquifolium Oregon grape 1-3m x 1m • • • • • Osmanthus species osmanthus 2-5m x 2-5m • • • Philadelphus species mock orange 1-2m x 2-5m • • Rhus species sumac 2.5-5m x 2.5-6m • • Ribes sanguineum red flowering currant 1.5m x 1m • • Rosa nutkana Nootka rose 1-3 m x 1-2.5m • • Salix scouleriana Scouler’s willow 2-12 m x 1.5m • • Sambucus cerulea blue elderberry 3-6m x 1-2m • • Sarcococca species Christmas box 40-100cm x 80-120cm • • • Shepherdia canadensis soapberry 1-3m x 1-2m • • Symphoricarpos species snowberry 2-2.5m x 2-2.5m • • • INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES IN GREATER VANCOUVER Invasive species are a growing problem in Greater Vancouver. Before you buy, take some time to learn a bit about the most What distinguishes an invasive species from a weed? Invasive common invasive plant species in the region and some healthier plants are non-native and grow so rapidly or spread so quickly alternatives. The GVRD has produced a brochure Help Stop the that they overwhelm native plant species that wildlife depend Spread of Invasive Plants, available along with other information on for food and shelter. Invasive plant species can also cause at www.parkpartners.ca/gvipc/ erosion, increased fire hazard and other problems. Some contain chemical compounds that are toxic to people, pets and wildlife. 8 9
  • 7. C O M M O N D R O U G H T -T O L E R A N T T R E E S SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME MATURE SIZE EVERGREEN SUN PART SHADE WELL- HEIGHT X SPREAD SHADE DRAINED SOIL Arbutus menziesii arbutus 15-20m x 8-10m • • Gleditsia triacanthos honey locust 8 -18m x 6-8 m • • Picea species spruce 8 -30 m x 4-6 m • • • Pinus species pine 6-25 m x 3-7 m • • • Quercus species oak 8-25m x 6-15 m • Sciadopitys verticillata Japanese umbrella pine 10-20 m x 6-8 m • • • • Thuja plicata western red cedar 20-35 m x 6-9 m • • • • • C O M M O N N O N -I N VA S I V E D R O U G H T -T O L E R A N T P E R E N N I A L S SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME MATURE SIZE EVERGREEN SUN PART SHADE WELL- HEIGHT X SPREAD SHADE DRAINED SOIL Achillea species yarrow 25-150cm x 25-150cm • Arabis species rock cress 5-10cm x 20-30cm • • • Anaphalis margaratacea pearly everlasting 30-100cm x 25-150cm • Armeria maritima common thrift 20-50cm x 30cm • • • Bergenia cordifolia heartleaf bergenia 20-60cm x 45-75cm • • • bulbs and corms daffodil, crocus, etc. 10-100cm x 10-50cm • • • Cerastium tomentosum snow-in-summer 5-8cm x indefinite • • • Festuca glauca blue fescue grass 30cm x 25cm • • • • Fragraria chiloensis coastal strawberry 0cm x 20cm • • Gaillardia grandiflora blanket flower 30-90cm x 45-80cm • • Gaura lindheimeri butterfly flower, white gaura 120cm x 90cm • • Helleborus species hellebore 30-100cm x 45-90cm • • • • Lavandula angustifolia English lavender 20-45cm x 30-50cm • • • Lupinus species lupine 50cm-1m x 30-50cm • • Paeonia lactiflora peony 50-70cm x 50-70cm • • Perovskia atriplicifolia Russian sage 150cm x 100cm • • Polygonatum species Solomon’s seal 80-100cm x 60cm • Saxifraga umbrosa London pride 25cm x 60cm • • • • • Sedum species stonecrop 5-50cm x 30-60cm • • • • Stachys byzantina lamb’s ears 45cm x 60cm • • • • Tanacetum coccineum painted daisy 45-75cm x 45cm • Yucca species yucca 60-120cm x 80-100cm • • • 10 11
  • 8. MULCH, MULCH, MULCH ! M ulching is one of the best ways to conserve water in your garden. Mulch – a layer of coarse material placed on top of the soil – preserves moisture by reducing soil temperature. It shelters the ground from drying winds, slowing the rate of evaporation from the soil. Mulch also reduces erosion by diffusing the force of water before it reaches the soil – the water gently seeps from the mulch into the ground. It discourages weed growth by burying seeds. And while decomposing it improves topsoil condition. If you are mulching to improve the soil, use a thin layer so it can break down. If you are using mulching to slow evaporation (any organic material will do), Lavender UBC Botanical Garden use a thicker layer and top it up regularly. Fine material breaks down quickly; chunkier mulch lasts longer. PLANTS PROTECTED Organic mulches include wood or bark chips, BY M ULCH R EQUIRE L ESS leaves, grass clippings, manure and compost. As they decompose, they contribute nutrients to the FREQUENT WATERING soil. The material should be applied 7-10 centimetres deep with more shallow distribution around smaller plants, tree trunks and new plantings. Keep mulches away from plant stems. Organic mulches need to be “topped up” regularly. Inorganic mulches do not contribute nutrients to the soil, but they can still help conserve water. Rocks, available in varying sizes and shapes, are a permanent ground cover that help prevent erosion and limit weeds, too. Swallow tail butterfly UBC Botanical Garden 13 12
  • 9. WATERWISE LAWNS EFFICIENT IRRIGATION T ry looking at your lawn from a new perspective. Can you modify your lawn area or tolerate a dormant lawn? Consider low-water-use varieties of grass, shrubs or ground cover. T he idea of waterwise gardening is that plants can survive without additional water once established. However, when you choose to irrigate (such as during drought conditions), there are ways to use water efficiently: There are many ways to care for your lawn in  Sprinklers should not mist. Larger drops are a waterwise way. Lawns go dormant during hot, dry less likely to evaporate or get blown away and weather, but they recover when the weather becomes more likely to reach their intended destination. cooler and wetter. Evaporation and general root stress decrease significantly when you let your grass grow  Irrigation systems can make watering easier, longer in the summer. The recommended lawn height but they can also waste water if not installed, is eight to 10 centimetres, and you shouldn’t remove maintained and operated properly. Your system any more than one-third of the grass blade length at should be designed and installed by a certified each cutting. Here are a few other tips to save water irrigation system designer. Consider requiring a while maintaining a healthy lawn: “Class A” contractor, as certified by the Irrigation Industry Association of B.C.  Consult with your local garden centre about low- water-use varieties of lawn seed. Ask your supplier  Keep water pressure at an appropriate level to stock them. Avoid high maintenance grasses, and keep your irrigation system well maintained such as turf used for golf greens. and scheduled properly. All automatic irrigation systems should have a properly installed rain  Water only when the lawn needs it. Most lawns sensor so they don’t operate when sufficient only need sprinkling once a week to a depth rain has fallen. of 2.5 centimetres.  Soaker hoses are an inexpensive and effective way  Water during the coolest part of the day. Early to water gardens, shrub borders and trees. These morning is best because it reduces the amount devices allow small amounts of water to seep into of water lost to evaporation. the soil, avoiding runoff and making it easy for  Consider watering only a portion of your lawn, water to penetrate deep into the soil, so the plant such as the part that is seen most. Let the rest can store it for future use. Soaker hoses are not go dormant – it will revive quickly after a good generally an efficient way to water lawns. rainfall or when the weather becomes cooler.  Minimize water use by being familiar enough  Reduce the amount of fertilizer added in summer. with the garden to know which areas need water, how much and how often. Water only  Sharpen mower blades frequently. when it’s necessary.  Use a mulching mower and leave grass clippings on the lawn during the summer.  Gardens, trees and shrubs need to be watered during warm, dry weather. For this reason they are exempt from lawn sprinkling regulations. 14 15
  • 10. APPROPRIATE LAWN AND GARDEN LOCAL WATERWISE GARDEN MAINTENANCE RESOURCES W  hen it comes to taking care of your lawn and garden, a bit of planning and care can save a lot of water. Reapply mulch as needed so it can keep LOCAL GARDENS Botanical gardens are great places to learn about new plants. Local gardens display many varieties of drought-resistant plants. doing its job. UBC Botanical Garden  If you have an irrigation system, make sure 6804 Southwest Marine Drive, Vancouver it is properly designed, installed, scheduled VanDusen Botanical Garden and maintained. 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver  Pull weeds regularly so plants don’t have to compete for available moisture. COMPOST DEMONSTRATION GARDENS  Protect our waterways by eliminating unnecessary There are 10 compost demonstration gardens pesticide usage (the term pesticides includes located in various municipalities throughout herbicides, fungicides and insecticides). the Lower Mainland. The following seven gardens explicitly demonstrate waterwise gardening.  Choosing the right plant for an areas particular growing conditions will help prevent pest and Burnaby Compost Demonstration Garden disease problems. 4856 Still Creek Ave, Burnaby  Learn about beneficial insects already at work McKitrick Earthwise Garden in your garden. 80th Avenue and 111th Street in North Delta  As a last resort, check your municipal by-laws Port Haney Compost Education Garden for reduce risk products that may be used 11739 - 223rd Street Maple Ridge sparingly on areas of concern, rather than Langley Compost Demonstration Garden blanketing an entire area. 49th Ave. at 221 Street, Langley Township Park and Tilford Gardens 440 - 333 Brooksbank Avenue, North Vancouver Richmond Waterwise Demonstration Garden 2631 Westminster Highway in the Terra Nova Rural Park, Richmond Vancouver Compost Demonstration Garden 2150 Maple Street, Vancouver For information about composting or local compost demonstration gardens, call the Winter-blooming camellia UBC Botanical Garden Compost Hotline at 604-736-2250. 16 17
  • 11. GARDEN CENTRES AND NURSERIES PUBLICATIONS Visit your neighbourhood garden centre or nursery Want to learn more about waterwise gardening? to consult with staff. Ask to see the drought-resistant Check your local library or book store for varieties of plants they have in stock. these resources: COURSES LOCAL Many colleges and continuing education programs Bennett, Jennifer Dry Land Gardening offer gardening courses on weekends or weeknights. Contact your local school board or post-secondary Kruckeberg, Arthur R. institution for course descriptions. Many courses Gardening with Native Plants of the Pacific Northwest are offered by: Pettinger, April Capilano College Landscape/ Native Plants for the Coastal Garden Horticulture Program 604-984-4960 Pojar, Jim and MacKinnon, Andy Plants of Coastal British Columbia Kwantlen University College Horticulture Program Tarrant, David 604-599-3254 David Tarrant’s Pacific Gardening Guide UBC Botanical Garden Stechert Black, Kathryn 604-822-3928 Sunset Western Garden Book VanDusen Botanical Garden 604-257-8666 Stevens, Elaine et al. Twelve-Month Gardener: A West Coast Guide ORGANIZATIONS AND GARDEN CLUBS Whysall, Steve 100 Best Plants for the Coastal Garden BC Council of Garden Clubs 604-530-2035 GENERAL BC Landscape and Nursery Chatto, Beth. Association (BCLNA) The Dry Garden 604-574-7772 Vancouver Natural History Society Ellefson, Stephens, Welsh, Maxwell. 604-737-3074 Xeriscape Gardening Naturescape British Columbia Taylor, Jane www.hctf.ca/nature.htm Plants for a Dry Garden 1-800-387-9853, Ext. 5 Waterwise Gardening: Beautiful Gardens with Less Water Native Plant Society of British Columbia The editors of Sunset books and Sunset magazine 604-255-5719 Wildflower Box 335, Postal Station F Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 2L7 www.wildflowermag.com 18 19
  • 12. OTHER GVRD ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES HOME PAGES: CHOICES FOR WISER LIVING Turn to the ‘Home Pages: Choices for wiser living’ in the front section of your White telephone directory for simple ideas that will reward you and the environment. Some will save you time. Many will save you money. COMPOSTING – THE NATURAL WAY TO RECYCLE Did you know that organic waste (food and garden trimmings) makes up 32 per cent of the garbage that goes to our landfill? To find out how you can backyard compost or worm compost, call the Compost Hotline at 604-736-2250. Baby hummingbirds John Dyson AIR QUALITY The 24-hour regional air quality complaint line is 604-436-6777. THANKS TO ATTENTION CLASSROOM Doug Justice, AND COMMUNITY EDUCATORS UBC Botanical Gardens The GVRD develops resources and delivers workshops Dawn Hanna, on regionally-relevant environmental topics filled with BC Invasive Plant Council engaging activities for K-12 audiences. To learn more, Allan O’Connor, contact the GVRD Information Centre or visit: Creative Garden Services www.gvrd.bc.ca/education. BC Landscape and Nursery Association Capital Regional District – Water Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary The Corporation of Delta The City of Vancouver City Farmer GardenWorks Art Knapp Plantland 20