Small outdoor spaces have a tendency for drainage problems. When the runoff isn’t effective, the soil is unable to absorb water after rain so it puddles on the surface forming muddy patches, becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and rots top-soil root systems. As a result, hot weather dries out the soil so it becomes barren and inhospitable to plants.

Small Waterwise Yards
The aim is to soak up the water after heavy rain, while retaining moisture in the soil to keep the garden green in dry weather.

1. Paving breaks up an expanse of soil, helping avoid puddles and provide a hard surface for movement around the yard and to doors and steps.

2. Groundcover makes the most of rainfall by distributing moisture and allowing water to drain off easily into the ground to prevent soil from drying out.

3. Mulching keeps soil moist, insulates the garden and provides plants with nutrients as it breaks down over time. Native plants are waterwise, and don’t need much watering if mulched effectively.