Water is a natural resource that is absolutely necessary for all life forms on Earth. As population numbers increase, the important resource dwindles. The scarcity of water is not to be overlooked. It takes a natural phenomenon such as a drought to remind us to always be water-wise.
Succulent in a Cement Pot
R89.95
The drought in the Western Cape persists and it seems we can no longer depend on their rainy season to make up for the lack of water. It’s time for us to be proactive and take responsibility where we can! That is why NetFlorist has developed this particular Water Wise campaign. Send a cactus to someone special and we’ll donate R10 to drought relief projects in the Western Cape, proving you love more than one person.
Succulent Chalk Pot
R99.95
We’ve fondly named the campaign #LoveEveryone. Flowers say, ‘I love you’ but a cactus says, “I love everyone’. Spend time browsing through our cactus and succulent options, but also take a moment to look at home you can create a water-wise garden. Here are seven tips to take into consideration:
Choose locally suitable water-wise plants
There are a number of stunning plants that require minimal water. Plant said plants after the first rains. This gives the plant the opportunity to create a strong root system just before it faces the dry season. Choose indigenous plants and shrubs. They are usually less ‘thirsty’ than alien vegetation. Check that are both locally occurring and hardy, non-thirsty plants.
Group water plants according to their water needs
By grouping your plants according to their water needs, you avoid wasting water on plants that don’t need it. An irrigation system is best for watering your garden. They use controlled amounts of water, unlike a hosepipe. Another tip is to soak the ceramic pots instead of the actual plant. The ceramic retains moisture for longer and it seeps into the roots.
Reconsider grass
Grass lawns are incredibly ‘thirsty’. Be sure not to cut your grass too short as longer leaves shade the roots and reduce water evaporation.
Prepare the soil well
Make sure you dig in plenty of compost at least once a year. This helps aid the water retention of the soil. It also adds nutrients, encourages earthworm activity, improves aeration and drainage.
Use Mulch
Organic mulch helps to reduce evaporation, run-off, erosion, suppresses weed growth, enriches the soil and it helps prevent compacting of the soil. The best formula for making organic mulch is by mixing shredded leaves, straw, compost, shredded newspaper and grass clippings.
Water correctly and only when necessary
Save water by watering thoroughly but less often. Water when evaporation is at its lowest – in the early morning and late afternoon. A drip or underground irrigation also helps.
Create shade and windbreaks
Plant wind-resistant, fast-growing and water-wise trees and shrubs. Wind and the sun are both factors that can dry out plants.
SUCCULENT IN LOOPED VASE WHITE STONES
R449.95
Water-wise plants
- Succulents
- Fynbos
- Lavender
- Air Plants
- Aloes
- South African Daisy
- Sweet Pea
- Jasmine
DESERT ARRANGEMENT IN GREEN VOTIVE
R99.95
Join our campaign today and visit netflorist.co.za.
