With climate change being such a prevalent issue, some may argue that water shortages may become the 21st century’s most burning environmental concern. As an established and attractive garden can add substantial value to your property, a water-wise garden could well be a sensible investment.

South African gardens consume an estimated 30 to 50 percent of domestic water. With an average annual rainfall of 500 millimetres, water has become a dwindling resource in our dry country. By making your garden water-wise, both cost and waste can be cut down while still preserving its natural beauty.

Cut down on lawn areas

According to SmartStone, a manufacturer of cast stone products, adding hardscaping elements to your garden provides an architectural feature that is both water-wise and aesthetically pleasing. Bear in mind that the style of hardscaping used can influence the overall feel of the garden. A straight, paved path will, for example, create a structured formal feel while a meandering path of railway sleepers is less structured and could invite exploration. By adding a circular feature or cobblestone path you can cut down on lawn areas and reduce your garden's watering requirements.

Before starting any landscaping project it is important to look at all elements and work on a plan that flows naturally into the landscape. The lie of the land may influence placement of hardscaping elements, particularly if drainage is affected. By holistically planning all aspects of the garden, the design can fit into your plans for future landscaping projects. With little effort established gardens can be made water-wise. However, planning to be water-wise from the start is far easier not to mention cheaper.

Plant choice plays a very important role in establishing a water-wise garden. Bedding plants can consume a lot of water, but by mulching and adding water retention granules to the soil you can substantially reduce the need to water. It is essential to group together sought after or favourite plants that require regular watering. These should be in a prominent section of your garden. Plants that require less water can then be considered for the rest of the garden.

Crisp, clean lines give a stylish feel

James Metcalf, director at SmartStone says: "Garden kerbs can create a beautiful natural line between the garden beds and the lawn. They will retain water and contain the ground cover or mulching in the bed." Edging can add a sense of order and define spaces in your garden while also creating focal points. Crisp, clean lines will give the garden a well-organised, stylish feel that can flow from the exterior of your home.

No garden is complete without a birdbath or water feature. Water is a calming element that will create a greater sense of tranquillity in any environment. You can minimise evaporation by placing water features and birdbaths in shaded areas of the garden. The use of cast stone pots for topiary-type gardening can also reduce evaporation. Cast stone stays cooler than plastic which absorbs heat much quicker than stone containers.

When making hardscaping choices it is important that the style and surfaces are harmoniously linked and complement the overall feel of your garden. A water-wise garden can be a beautiful extension to your home while simultaneously taking care of the environment we live in.