The city is encouraging Calgarians to become water aware and create a YardSmart yard this spring

As drought conditions continue across much of Calgary and southern Alberta, we need to do our part in our yards and gardens to make every drop count. YardSmart's online resources and practical advice help Calgarians create and maintain yards and gardens that are well-suited to Calgary's growing conditions and use less water.

YardSmart water conservation tips:

• Water early in the morning or in the evening.
• Avoid watering when it's raining or when rain is in the forecast. You can also use a rain barrel to collect and reuse rainwater from your yard.
• Give the plants only the water they need.
• Mow frequently to keep grass 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) tall to shade the soil.
• Consider replacing parts of your lawn with garden features that use less water and help absorb rainwater, such as rock gardens and low-water shrubs or ground cover.
• Add rich soil and mulch to reduce evaporation from the soil.

What plants should be added to the garden this year?

Native wildflowers, perennials, trees and shrubs

Our YardSmart plant lists are great resources for those looking to expand their yards this year. These beautiful, low-maintenance plants are well-suited to Calgary's current growing conditions and will attract local pollinators to your yard.

Drought conditions are likely to persist in the coming years. Creating a yard that is suited to Calgary's climate will help it perform well during future droughts.

to go calgary.ca/yardsmart for more information on how you can do your part to save water in your yard and garden. Together we can make every drop count.