How Much Water Do Drought Tolerant Plants Save?

Drought tolerant plants have become increasingly popular over the years, especially in areas that experience prolonged periods of drought. These plants have a range of adaptations that enable them to survive and grow with limited water resources. One of their most notable benefits is the amount of water they can save. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at just how much water drought tolerant plants can save.

How Do Drought Tolerant Plants Save Water?

Drought tolerant plants possess a range of adaptations that enable them to survive with less water. These adaptations include:

Deep Roots: Many drought tolerant plants have deep and extensive root systems that enable them to access water deep in the soil.

Dormancy: Some plants can go dormant during periods of drought, conserving water until there are more favorable conditions.

Reduced Leaf Surface Area: Some plants have smaller leaves or leaves with a waxy coating that reduces water loss through transpiration.

Slow Growth: Drought tolerant plants grow more slowly, conserving water in the process.

Water Storage: Some plants store water in their tissues, enabling them to survive extended periods of drought.

How Much Water Can Drought Tolerant Plants Save?

The amount of water saved by drought tolerant plants varies depending on the plant species, climate, and soil type. Generally, these plants can save up to 50% of the water used by traditional landscape plants. In arid regions, drought tolerant plants can save up to 70% of the water used by traditional plants.

For example, a traditional lawn typically requires around 2.5 inches of water per week during the growing season. By replacing the lawn with drought tolerant plants, homeowners can reduce their water usage by up to 60%. This reduction can lead to significant savings on water bills, especially in areas where water is scarce or expensive.

The Environmental Benefits of Drought Tolerant Plants

Drought tolerant plants have several additional environmental benefits, including:

Reduced Energy Usage: Drought tolerant plants require less irrigation, reducing the energy needed to pump and transport water to residential areas.

Reduced Water Pollution: Traditional landscape plants require fertilizers and pesticides, which can leach into water sources and pollute streams and rivers. Drought tolerant plants require fewer inputs, reducing the risk of water pollution.

Increased Biodiversity: Many drought tolerant plants are native species that support local wildlife and contribute to the overall health of local ecosystems.

The Bottom Line

Overall, drought tolerant plants have a range of water-saving adaptations that make them an excellent choice for homeowners and businesses in arid regions. By using these plants, we can save significant amounts of water, reduce our energy usage, and contribute to more sustainable, healthy ecosystems.