5 tips to make your property more water wise

“Compared to 10 years ago, there are so many more options when it comes to being water efficient in your home, workplace and, of course, the garden,” Mr Paul said.

“To prevent us reaching water restriction levels in the future, I believe that all households and workplaces should act like we are under them at all times.

“There is no need to use excessive amounts of water just because we can. Why not be a part of the solution?”

Mr Paul’s five tips to be more water wise are:

1. Be proactive

“Install a greenwall or greenroof,” Mr Paul said.

2. Don’t have a greenwaste bin

“Our bread, pasta and rice all goes to our carp in our pond and all other food waste goes to our chickens,” Mr Paul said.

“For grass and garden clippings, put them in composting mounds between the plantings or put them through a mulcher and return to the garden.

“If you reuse all of your greenwaste, you don’t need to purchase mulch or fertilizer and you use less water.”

3. Consider your need for a lawn

“How close is your local oval or park?

“Lawns require the highest level of water usage in the garden. In many homes, the lawn is the most underutilised area.

“So, only lay natural grass where it is really needed and going to be used. Plus, native grasses are a great alternative for nature strips,” Mr Paul said.

4. Install a drip irrigation system

“These must be on a timer and when installed correctly will deliver the exact amount of water the greenwall or garden requires, saving time and money,” Mr Paul said.

“Also consider installing a larger rainwater tank storage, suitable to your actual needs.”

5. Be conscious on your plant selection

“Be smart about the plants you choose for your garden,” Mr Paul advised.

“Choose plants that are low maintenance and don’t require water every day. Look for starch-storing plants such as Queensland Bottle trees, Illawarra Flame trees or Spear Lilies.”