Episode: VIC Special
Date: 24th January
Story: Saving water outside the home
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane

Trevor shows us some simple ways we can cut our water usage outdoors and conserve our precious water.
OUTSIDE

• The majority of water loss in the garden is through evaporation and transpiration. Apply a wetting agent. This soaks the top 15 to 20cm of the soil which is where the majority of feeding and drinking roots grow. Anymore water will drain below the feeder roots and be a waste.
• Plant screening plants around the outside edge of your garden and use trees to shade garden beds to reduce water loss.
• One of the most important ways to reduce evaporation is by mulching. You can reduce evaporation by 70% by simply adding a thick layer of course organic mulch. It has to be at least 50mm thick and ideally 100mm.
• Recycle water wherever possible. Recycling water from the bathroom and kitchen through grey water systems are a great way to reuse water.
• Try to select plants that are dry hardy varieties.
• Purchase a rainwater tank- a top way to save water. Sub surface drip lines will deliver the water straight to the plant roots.

For more information on how to save water:

Yarra Valley Water
Head Office:
Lucknow Street
Mitcham VIC 3132
Mailing Address:
Private Bag 1
Mitcham VIC 3132
Phone: 13 1721
Email: enquiry@yvw.com.au
Website: http://www.yvw.com.au?

The Department of Sustainability and Environment
Head Office Address: 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Phone: 136 186
Website: www.ourwater.vic.gov.au
www.savewater.com.au