Target 155 - Storms & Regular Watering = Sad Gardens

How Storms, Showers and Regular Garden Watering Can Leave Your Garden Looking Sad

Cooler weather has seen Melbourne's residential water consumption recede from last week's high to an average of 170 litres per person per day.

But with continued storms and rain predicted for well into next week, water authorities are calling for Melburnians to put garden hoses away and to switch off watering systems - to help us reduce the impact of summer's damaging water consumption, and to ensure our gardens aren't inadvertently over watered.

"With next week's forecast resembling mild spring weather (and not the searing heat of summer), there is really no need to be doing any watering over the next week - allowing us to reduce water consumption to well below the target," states Mr Kelly, Managing Director of Yarra Valley Water and Target 155 spokesperson.

"Melburnians have already proven this year that Target 155 is still very much achievable during summer, especially when we have the benefits of cooler temperatures. Now with the added bonus of storms and significant rain, we can give our storages a much needed break, by putting off outdoor watering for a week or so and by switching off evaporative air conditioners," details Mr Kelly

But the benefits to reducing water consumption are not just limited to our stressed storages. When Melbourne is already well-watered by weekly downpours, to automatically water for the full four hours a week allowed under restrictions, may well lead to our gardens being over watered.

The key signs of over watering are yellowed and wilting foliage - which is easily, and often misdiagnosed as heat stress during summer.

"We urge all gardeners to test the soil before watering. If it is at all damp 5cm down, water less to see your garden bounce back and thrive, otherwise water your garden as needed - and as permitted under Stage 3a water restrictions," explains Mr Kelly.

Melbourne's water storages have continued to decline this week, to less than 35.6 per cent full - confirming the need to diversify Melbourne's water supply. Work is currently underway to build Australia's largest desalination plant, upgrade irrigation channels and expand the water grid.

But we all need to keep saving water.

Under Stage 3a Water Restrictions:
*Lawns must not be watered at any time

*Even and no-numbered properties can water plants on Sat & Tues 6am - 8am

*Odd-numbered properties can water plants on Sun & Wed 6am - 8am

*Residents aged 70+ can water plants on their specified days between 6am - 8am OR the alternate time of 8am - 10am

*Automatic dripper systems can be used to water plants on specified
watering days between midnight - 2am

*Rain/ grey water can be used at any time

*Cars can be washed at commercial car washes

*No watering is permitted on Monday, Thursday and Friday.

For more water saving tips and information
go to www.target155.vic.gov.au

Media Enquires:
Caroline Doherty, Target 155 Media Manager
M: 0421 465 274
[email protected]

Rainfall Storages and Rainfall Data
Nick McGay, Melbourne Water
M: 0438 981 836
[email protected]

SOURCE: Target 155