The “D” Word: Navigating Drought in Georgia

Information Provided by King Landscaping

We’ve enjoyed several years of average or above-average rainfall, but that favorable pattern is ending. The state has officially declared a Level One drought for Georgia.

While this declaration does not immediately change the current conditions, it does signal that water use restrictions may become more stringent if significant rainfall does not occur.

Outdoor water use is still permitted between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. and is not affected by Drought Response Level 1.

Staying Positive: Getting Through the Drought

Despite these challenges, we will get through this period of drought. Here are some practical do’s and don’ts to help you reduce your water usage during this time.

Do’s: Smart Water Practices

• Continue watering new plants to help them establish roots.
• Reduce water to existing plants. Aim to gradually wean your established plants off regular watering by decreasing the frequency each year until they no longer require irrigation.
• Audit your irrigation system regularly. Check for leaks and adjust spray heads to ensure optimal coverage.
• Keep your planting beds mulched. Mulch helps keep the soil cooler and reduces evaporation.
• Choose adaptable plants that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
• Use native plants when possible. Although many suburban yards have heavily compacted clay soil and may not be native-friendly, if you have a wooded area with decent soil, go native. The Georgia Native Plant Society offers helpful information online at https://gnps.org.
• Reduce water use inside your home. For guidance, consult the quick guide at https://www.epa.gov/watersense/start-saving.

Don’ts: Water Use Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t keep watering existing landscapes on a set schedule. Routine watering encourages shallow root growth, increases the risk of fungus, and washes lawn chemicals and nutrients downstream.
• Don’t stop watering plants abruptly. Gradually reduce watering so roots have a chance to grow deeper and wider.
• Don’t rush out to buy cactus. Dry years will eventually give way to wet years. Focus on adaptable plants instead.
• Don’t panic. We have experienced droughts before and made it through each one. Every drought teaches us something new and helps us improve our practices.