If you don't already know, water is the lifeblood of everything. The beauty of water is as amazing as refreshing. Not only do we need water for survival but I can't think of a living thing where there isn't a need for water. Water can replenish plants as quickly as it replenishes humans. As we move into warmer seasons, we quickly start to think about where water is essential for reviving life.

The first sign of spring is when you find yourself gazing out the window at your yard, thinking that it looks awful. You rummage around in the shed examining all your garden tools before making excuses about why you need to go to a Home and Garden Store just so you can linger in their lawn and garden aisle.

The first sign of summer? That's been a while since it rained! And unwinding our hose every day isn't going to cut it anymore; we're giving those plants a bath as soon as possible!

In large metropolitan areas like the Washington DC metro area, they are fortunate enough to enjoy an ample supply of water from a big river: the Potomac. But the population has grown a lot in the past years and those water supplies that once seemed limitless now seem more finite at times.

Here are a few tips on how to do your part, enjoy a lush green lawn, and leave water in the Potomac for the fish, birds, and other animals that need it.

Tip #1: Water Once Per Week

In the Washington metropolitan area, you will find one inch of water per week is plenty for most lawns and gardens, whether it comes from a hose or falls from the sky. Here's a simple way to know how much water your grass has received: Place a coffee can or other similar container in the area to be watered. Turn the sprinkler or system on, and let it run until there is one inch of water in the can. At that point, check the amount of time it took to get that inch of water in the can. One should water the area for this same amount of time each week.

Tip #2: Make Your Water Last: Mulch!

Mulching is another method of conserving water. Mulch around garden plants helps the soil to retain the moisture, which the plants need to survive. One should also remember to use mulch in their planters and pots-they too need to retain their moisture. As a bonus, mulch helps prevent weeds.

Tip #3: Water Early

Watering during the heat of the day is like going for a scenic drive during rush hour -- it's just a frustrating waste of time (and water). The midday sun causes much of the water (and your money) to evaporate! Early morning is the best time to water the grass and plants. Watering in the morning allows the sun to dry the leaves of the plants during the day, preventing mold and fungus from developing. In addition, when watering in the morning, there is less wind, thus there is less evaporation, which means one will be using less water. At this time, the grass and plants are also more able to absorb the water.

Tip #4: Aim

If you see water running down the driveway or along the curb, that's a sign of sloppy aim. If you're using an automatic sprinkler system to water your yard, make sure it actually watering your yard -- not the asphalt! For many yards, the use of a soaker hose might be the best option. These allow the water to seep into the soil slowly, rather than having a sprinkler deliver the water too quickly and causing a runoff of water. For some plants, especially those in pots, the traditional watering can will provide the needed water.

You've watered your lawn. You've followed these tips. And now it's time to relax and enjoy the rewards! Next time your guests are over for that backyard cookout, enjoy the admiration they express over that lush green grass you've worked so hard to care for. Then, tell them about these extra steps you've taken to do your part for the environment and watch the look on their faces.

Craving the beauty of water, you can fulfill your wishes here.

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