With California Governor Jerry Brown requiring reduced water use due to the state’s five-year drought, gardening professionals and homeowners across the Livermore Valley should take note of techniques to reduce waste. Water smarter by irrigating watering early in the morning before the sun is hot reduces evaporation. Watering for fewer days for longer periods will saturate soil more deeply helps create healthier plants. Drip sprinkler systems are the most efficient for plants like boxwoods that don’t like overhead watering. Sprays and micro-misters to target tops of other varieties, but a local professional can provide personalized advice on how specific plants, shrubs, and flowers should be watered. Placing down heavy organic mulch in spring and fall, which reduces water evaporation from the soil can help. Select drought-tolerant plants. Your local nursery like Alden Lane or Western Garden Center can be a great source for providing recommendations for plants that can grow and thrive with little water.