Climbing water rates and local restrictions caused by the growing water crisis have forced many homeowners to cut back or shut off their landscape irrigation all together. Besides the loss of plants, lost also are the benefits they provide. Shade from properly placed trees reduces cooling costs, shrubs and groundcover prevent water runoff and erosion, while all plants large or small improve air quality, provide wildlife habitat, and enhance property appearance and value. Reusing water, especially from showers and baths, is the key to keeping your yard green and saving money in the process.

     Showers and baths account for approximately one third of household water use. A typical 15 minute shower uses 50 gallons of water which adds up to over 18,000 gallons a year per person. Used bathing water, refered to as graywater, is ideal for landscape plants and provides a reliable daily source of water. Here are some simple guidelines for graywater use:

1)  Graywater can be used for lawn and landscape irrigation, and composting.

2)  Use only drip or flood irrigation. Do not spray graywater.

3)  Do not surface irrigate plants that produce food except for citrus and nut trees.

4)  Do not allow graywater to run off your property or to accumulate in standing pools.

5)  Do not reuse graywater that contains hazardous chemicals such as harsh bath and tile cleaners,      hair dyes, etc. This water should be discharged down the drain.

6)  Choose soaps and shampoos that do not contain sodium (salt) compounds as over time salt can build up in the soil and be harmful to plants. Water from salt-based soft water systems is also unsuitable for irrigation.

7)  It is best to use graywater immediately. If collected for later distribution, it must be used within      24 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Collection tanks must be covered to prevent access by      mosquitoes or other animals and should be clearly marked as containing graywater and not      suitable for drinking.

8)  Do not allow children to play in or pets to drink graywater.

9)  Hoses used for graywater must not be used for any other purpose and should be clearly      marked.