Water and fertilize plants only as needed. Too much water promotes weak growth and increases pruning and mowing requirements. Like any landscape, a water-efficient yard will require regular pruning, weeding, fertilization, pest control, and irrigation. As your water-efficient landscape matures, however, it will require less maintenance and less water. Cutting turf grass only when it reaches two to three inches promotes deeper root growth and a more drought-resistant lawn. As a rule of thumb, mow your turf grass before it requires more than one inch to be removed. Avoid shearing plants or giving them high nitrogen fertilizers during dry periods because these practices encourage water-demanding new growth. 

Source: www3.epa.gov

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