By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The growing season is here and with it comes increased outdoor water usage.
Whether you're planting a garden or planning some landscaping, Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist, has some tips for saving water outdoors.
* Prepare the soil for maximum water penetration by adding organic matter.
* Grow in the garden only what you know you'll use to limit irrigation needs.
* Choose the right plant for the right place at the right time.
* Avoid poor-yield crops for the space/water needs.
* Apply mulch after the soil warms up.
* Continue with routine maintenance of gardens and landscaping.
More tips for outdoor water use are available on the Hays Dept. of Water Resources website at www.watersmarthays.com.
The Kansas Garden Guide is available online at no cost at https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/s51.pdf.