Melburnians encouraged to embrace smarter gardening habits as dry conditions persist
Published on 05 March 2026
Around 15 per cent of the average household’s water use is outdoors, and with drier conditions persisting, early autumn is a critical moment for Victorian gardeners to act.
After a summer marked by lower rainfall and prolonged heat, many Melbourne gardens are already under stress, made worse by watering practices that don’t suit the conditions.
Tiffany White, Yarra Valley Water’s General Manager Strategy and Community, says early autumn is when small changes have the biggest impact.
“Hot weather doesn’t stop in late summer, and neither does the pressure on gardens,” Ms White said.
“Autumn is the ideal time to rebuild soil health, choose the right plants and fine‑tune watering habits so gardens can recover well and stay resilient through the months ahead.”
Thoughtful Soil Care
Healthy soil is the foundation of any water-wise garden. Adding mulch is one of the simplest and most effective ways to save water, by reducing evaporation, regulating soil temperature and suppressing weeds so your garden stays hydrated with less effort.
Smart Plant Choices
Native and climate-resilient plants are gaining popularity among Victorian gardeners due to their ability to cope with heat and minimal watering. Plants including grevilia, grasses, kangaroo paw, and bottlebrush are well suited to Victoria’s conditions and form a strong foundation for resilient gardens.
Efficient Watering
Watering practices also play a major role in garden stress. Deep watering once or twice a week encourages robust root systems that can withstand heat, while checking irrigation systems for leaks or overspray ensures water reaches the plants that need it. Using a leak‑free hose with a trigger nozzle helps keep watering controlled and efficient.
“These techniques are straightforward but often overlooked,” Ms White said. “Even one or two changes can reduce water use while keeping gardens healthy through persistent warm conditions.”
“We aim to promote water efficient behaviors that help households protect their gardens now and prepare for what comes next. Smarter habits today can reduce pressure on the water network and support healthier gardens into autumn and beyond.”
Explore Yarra Valley Water’s climate-resilient display garden at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show from 25 – 29 March, where visitors can learn about smarter gardening ideas that can be adapted at home.