Watering wisely in a water-scarce country

In a hot, dry country, every litre counts. Good gardeners give plants exactly what they need, when they need it, and waste very little.

Watch the 1-minute overview

Watch the full video guide for this module

Water only when it is needed

• DEWA says gardens do not need watering every day. Check the soil 2 to 3 inches (about 5 to 8cm) below the surface and water only when it is dry.
• For pots, push a finger into the compost: if it is dry to your first knuckle, water; if it feels damp, wait.
• Containers do dry out faster, especially small ones in full sun. The RHS notes they may need watering up to twice a day in hot weather.
• Emirates Nature-WWF puts it simply: only water your garden when required.

Time it right

• Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce loss to evaporation, advise Emirates Nature-WWF and the UAE Year of Sustainability checklist reported by Gulf News.
• Avoid watering on windy days (Emirates Nature-WWF).
• Water in short spurts with a pause between them so the water soaks in rather than running off (Emirates Nature-WWF).
• Change your routine with the seasons: DEWA advises adjusting irrigation settings to the weather and plants through the year.

Get water to the roots

• DEWA's advice is to water roots, not leaves.
• Drip irrigation sends water straight to the roots and prevents run-off, according to DEWA, and an Emirati farmer quoted by Khaleej Times recommends it because it conserves water.
• The Year of Sustainability planting guide suggests matching drip volume to the plant: more for trees, less for small plants to avoid overwatering.
• Check irrigation pipes and sprinkler valves regularly for leaks and blockages (DEWA; Khaleej Times).
• A simple homemade option for a few pots is a watering can and a regular routine; you do not need expensive equipment to water well.

Mulch, shade and plant choice

• DEWA suggests spreading a layer of organic mulch around plants to help them keep moisture.
• In pots, a layer of mulch on top of the compost slows drying.
• Choose plants that need less water. Emirates Nature-WWF suggests succulents such as aloe vera and cacti, and the Year of Sustainability checklist recommends drought-resistant plants.
• Remove weeds and dead plants, which use water unnecessarily (DEWA).
• Larger containers hold more compost and dry out more slowly than small ones (RHS).

Reusing water safely

• DEWA suggests washing fruit and vegetables in a bowl rather than under a running tap, then using that water on your plants.
• DEWA also suggests collecting the cold water that runs while you wait for the tap to warm up and using it for house plants.
• Rainwater, when it does fall, can be collected for plants, a traditional practice mentioned in the Year of Sustainability checklist.
• Treated greywater systems exist for some homes, but only use greywater (water from showers or washing machines) where your local authority and building allow it, and never on edible leaves without proper treatment.