The Water-Smart Garden

Five years ago we installed a large garden in the front of the house. The coneflowers and drift roses and geraniums have flourished with little need of water during drought weeks. But the hydrangea wilt every afternoon. Although on the north side of the house, they are not in the house’s shadow and get far too much sun. We had to set up drip hoses for a daily dose of water.

I hate having to water the garden with city water. I have rain barrels which I use to water the raised garden bed and vegetables in containers. I am looking for alternatives and advice and hoped to learn more in this book.

The first mistake was planting the hydrangea. They look lovely, but should not have been installed there. The Water-Smart Garden offers advice on choosing plantings.

But I am not going to tear up the seven hydrangea. The Water-Smart Garden gives advice on how to set up drip hoses with rain barrels with a pump. Perfect for my situation! I have a rain barrel hidden behind the bushes but the drip hoses without a pump didn’t solve my problem.

We have a lot of water next to the driveway. We planted a dwarf native iris there but could expand it to create a rain garden, another option covered in the book.

This thorough book is packed with information starting with how to identify your local climate and the best native plants for your area to efficient watering options and how to guide for projects. Gorgeous illustrations throughout the book make it a delight.

Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley

If you’ve ever stared down water-use restrictions and thought, “How can I possibly keep my garden alive?” then The Water-Smart Garden is the answer you’ve been looking for. Noelle Johnson (aka @az.plant.lady) brings tons of practical tips for creating a stunning garden that doesn’t guzzle water—perfect for today’s ever-drier world.

This book is packed with clever ideas to make every drop count. From harvesting rainwater with barrels to using drip irrigation and drought-tolerant plants, it’s all about working with your environment instead of against it. There’s even guidance on swapping out thirsty lawns for low-maintenance alternatives and making containers that don’t need constant watering (yes, please!).

What I loved most is how approachable it all feels. Whether you’re growing veggies, flowers, or just trying to green up a tough spot, the advice here makes saving water easy and effective.

With The Water-Smart Garden, you don’t have to choose between a beautiful landscape and being eco-conscious—you can have both! 🌱💧