It’s possible to grow a thriving garden and nurture a lovely landscape while minimizing water consumption.

A combination of native-friendly plants, smart agricultural practices, alternative water sources and efficient irrigation can help keep gardens and lawns growing healthy throughout dry summer months.

Following are some tips for conserving water this summer and every summer to come.

Choose drought-resistant native plants for your landscaping needs. And don’t worry, your options won’t be limited to cactus. From ornamental grasses to shrub roses, many drought-tolerant native species offer bright color and visual appeal.

Look for plants that do well in the driest conditions found in your geographic region. Your local cooperative extension office can help you identify plants that are right for your garden.

Groom your soil for optimum water absorption and retention. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service recommends adding water-retaining organic material to your soil. You can also reduce evaporation by using mulch in landscaping beds.

Look for alternative water sources other than the garden hose – such as recycling clean water used inside the house for cooking and other activities. Also, consider collecting roof runoff in a rain barrel for use in watering flower beds and vegetable gardens.

Irrigate more efficiently with low-volume irrigation systems and smart watering practices. Last summer restrictions on lawn watering were widespread across the country.

And many communities now require all newly built homes to use low-volume irrigation in the yard. On average, micro sprinklers and drip irrigation systems use 80 to 90 percent less water than traditional irrigation methods.

Irrigation manufacturers like Mister Landscaper are responding to increased consumer demand for low-volume systems by offering micro sprinkler and drip products that homeowners can easily install on their own.

Mister Landscaper’s Micro Sprinkler Starter Kits efficiently and slowly irrigate flower and vegetable gardens, as well as areas where trees and shrubs grow. These products are available in most home improvement stores or online at www.misterlandscaper.com.

“The key is to apply water only exactly when and where it is needed,” said Susan Thayer, an irrigation and water conservation expert. Drip and micro spray irrigation provide optimum efficiency with minimum waste, she said.

Design your landscaping to minimize evaporation. Windbreaks and fences slow the movement of the wind over the ground and the evaporation it causes, according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service.