Greywater can be a valuable resource for irrigating plants, especially in arid regions like the southwest where water conservation is crucial. When using greywater, it's important to follow local regulations and guidelines to ensure proper and safe use. Here is a list of recommended plants for greywater irrigation in the southwest:
- Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Drought-tolerant and fragrant, lavender is well-suited for greywater irrigation.
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): This aromatic herb is known for its resilience in dry conditions.
- Oleander (Nerium oleander): While toxic if ingested, oleander is a hardy and drought-tolerant shrub suitable for greywater irrigation.
- Sage (Salvia spp.): Various types of sage, such as white sage or purple sage, are adapted to arid climates and can thrive on greywater.
- Agave (Agave spp.): Succulents like agave are well-suited for greywater use due to their ability to store water in their leaves.
- Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.): These vibrant and ornamental plants are drought-tolerant and can thrive with greywater irrigation.
- Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller): Aloe vera is a succulent that requires minimal water and is suitable for greywater use. (not cold hardy to a hard freeze)
- Yucca (Yucca spp.): Drought-resistant and visually striking, yucca plants are well-suited for greywater irrigation in the southwest.
- Penstemon (Penstemon spp.): Many species of penstemon are native to the southwest and can thrive on greywater.
- California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica): This colorful wildflower is well-adapted to dry conditions and can be a great choice for greywater irrigation.
- Gaura (Gaura lindheimeri): Also known as wandflower, gaura is a drought-tolerant perennial that can thrive on greywater.
- Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata): A native southwest plant, desert marigold is well-adapted to arid conditions.
Not all plants need greywater?
Absolutely, and it's a great point to consider when choosing plants for greywater irrigation, especially in arid regions where water conservation is crucial. Native and drought-tolerant plants are excellent choices for our landscapes, as they have adapted to survive in low-water environments. These plants often require less supplemental watering and can thrive with the limited water resources provided by greywater.
Design a distributed system, so greywater can be directed where and when it is needed.
It's important to note that even drought-tolerant plants may benefit from occasional deep watering, especially during the establishment phase. Additionally, considering the specific microclimate, soil conditions, and sunlight exposure of your garden will help you choose the most suitable plants for your greywater irrigation system.
Here are some native and drought-tolerant plants that may not need much extra water beyond what greywater provides during the establishment phase, or times of extreme drought:
- Native Grasses: Grasses like buffalo grass (Buchloe dactyloides) and blue grama grass (Bouteloua gracilis) are adapted to arid climates and can thrive with minimal water.
- Succulents: Plants like agave, yucca, and various types of sedum and sempervivum are excellent choices as they store water in their leaves.
- Cacti: Many cactus species are well-adapted to arid environments and can thrive with minimal water. Examples include prickly pear (Opuntia spp.) and barrel cacti.
- Artemisia (Artemisia spp.): These silver-gray plants are known for their drought tolerance and can be suitable for greywater irrigation.
- Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.): Native to the southwest, manzanita is a drought-tolerant shrub that can thrive in arid conditions.
- Creosote Bush (Larrea tridentata): This native plant is well-adapted to arid regions and can tolerate dry conditions.
- Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis): Jojoba is a native shrub that is well-suited for arid climates and may require minimal additional watering.
- Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata): Mentioned earlier, this native southwest plant is well-adapted to dry conditions.
Remember to consider the specific requirements of each plant, including sunlight, soil type, and mature size, to ensure successful greywater irrigation. Additionally, use biocompatible and low-sodium soaps to minimize potential harm to plants and soil. Always check local regulations and guidelines before implementing a greywater system.