• Comply with your county's water restrictions.
• Use native plants. For information about native plants, visit the Georgia Native Plant Society web site.
• Buy a drip watering system. A patio watering kit with 30 "drippers" and 50 feet of tubing costs less than $10.
• Collect rainwater for later use. (Cover them after the rain to deter mosquitoes.)
• Know when to water. Watering is usually necessary only during the growing season, March through October.
• A deep soaking of about one inch once a week is sufficient for most grasses, trees and shrubs. Deep soaking promotes deep roots. Deeper roots deeper require less watering since moisture is found deeper in the soil.
• Let grass grow a little taller. Longer grass blades reduce evaporation, which is helpful during the hot, dry months. Keep grass 2-3 inches high.
• Keep 1-3 inches of mulch around plants and shrubs. Mulch helps retain moisture and reduces the need for watering.
• Get to know your lawn sprinkler. Set the controls to keep the water off the driveway or street. Do not water by hand. This is the least efficient way to water your grass.
• Water your lawn early (if water restrictions allow). Early morning watering is best because the sun evaporates water used during midday hours. If you must water in the evening, do so as late as possible to lessen the chance of fungus.
• Avoid watering in windy conditions since much of the water evaporates or ends up on the driveway or street.
• Sweep driveways, sidewalks and steps rather than hosing them off.
• Wash cars with water from a bucket, or use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
• When using a hose, control the flow with an automatic shut-off nozzle.

At the swimming pool:

• Avoid water toys that require a constant stream of water.
• Install a water-saving pool filter.
• Lower pool water level to reduce amount of water splashed out. Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation when pool is not in use.

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