Water-wise gardening

Q: What are the best drought-tolerant plants?

Local natives, Mediterranean herbs, succulents — match to your frost and soil.

Q: How much water does a native garden need?

Establishment year: regular water; years 2–3: taper; mature: rainfall often sufficient.

Q: Are artificial lawns water-wise?

They eliminate irrigation but have heat and environmental trade-offs — not equivalent to living soil.

Q: Can I reuse greywater?

Regulations vary — licensed plumbing required for permanent greywater systems.

Q: Does mulch type matter for fire?

In BAL-rated areas choose bushfire-appropriate mulch per local guidance.

Q: Who can audit my irrigation?

Irrigation specialists and some water utilities offer efficiency assessments.

Water-wise gardening uses mulch, drip irrigation, native plants, and soil improvement to cut outdoor water use — essential in dry climates and during restrictions.

Find local gardeners

Free — compare quotes from providers in your suburb

Principles of water-wise design

Group plants by water need (hydrozoning), use mulch everywhere, improve soil organic matter, and choose climate-suited species. Reduce lawn area — lawns are the thirstiest garden element.

Irrigation efficiency

Drip beats sprinklers for beds. Fix leaks promptly. Rain sensors and smart controllers prevent watering after rain.

Compliance

State water corporations publish restriction stages — permanent water efficiency rules apply in many areas regardless of drought.

What to look for in a gardener

A reliable gardener asks about access, slope, pets, and your priorities before quoting. They explain what is included in each visit and flag extra work (heavy pruning, green waste removal) before starting.