Your Water Conservation Plan for May

It's hot and getting hotter, so don't forget that your lawn and landscape plants can't escape into the air conditioning. You can, however, do some things to make it easier for them to survive and thrive in the hotter, drier days of summer. Our guide to preparing your landscape for summer is packed with tips for adjusting your watering schedule, tuning up your sprinklers and irrigation system, and protecting your plants from the heat. Get started today!

Water Conservation Month-by-Month

Conserving water is a year-round activity. In fact, the best way for you to conserve water is to make it a regular habit. This 12-month planner can help, with dozens of easy ideas and a new focus each month. Check out this month's feature, and make a note in your calendar to check back here every month. Better yet, sign up for our monthly reminder email.

• January: Take a home water audit
• February: Using and conserving water indoors
• March: Technologies for conserving water
• April: How to program your irrigation controller
• May: Preparing your landscape for summer
• June: Tools around your home that save water
• July: Principles of Xeriscape – water-wise landscape design
• August: Planning, installing, and maintaining irrigation systems
• September: Choosing and planting low water-use plants
• October: Public Xeriscape demonstration gardens for relaxation and inspiration
• November: Container gardening with water-wise plants
• December: Holiday fun and games and gift ideas