Tucson has a wealth of organizations that provide classes, workshops, resources, and services for people interested in plants, gardening, garden design, xeriscaping, water conservation, and more. Below are some of the many excellent sources in the Tucson area.
Water Management
Depending on the size and type of the plant (tree, shrub, or groundcover), you will need to water to different depths and widths.
This interactive online tool determines how much water your plants need to ensure they're healthy and beautiful. Just enter the types of plants you have, their size, and the number and flow rate of the emitters - then hit 'Calculate'. It will show you a printable schedule of how often and how long to water, as well as tips to improve efficiency.
This resource page covers pretty much everything you'd want to know about watering landscape plants in Tucson.
The City of Tucson offers a rebate to owners of single-family residential and small commercial Tucson Water customers who install a rainwater harvesting system on their property.
Applicants may apply for both incentive levels below (passive and active), not exceeding $2,000 for the combination per property.
Incentive Level 1 - Simple/Passive (Rain Garden)
50% of the cost of eligible materials and labor up to $500
Incentive Level 2 - Complex/Active (Rain Tank)
Rebate covers the cost of the system based on gallon per capacity of tank up to $2,000.
To Qualify
- Applicants must be Tucson Water customers with active service.
- Applicants must attend an approved Rainwater Harvesting Incentives Program Workshop.
Learn more at the links below:
American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (ARCSA) - Arizona Municipal Water Users Association amwua.org/plants Search low‐water‐use plants to create an attractive, water-efficient landscape.
Grey Water Central - The web's information central on all aspects of grey water systems
from the leading innovators and producers of greywater information
Harvesting Rainwater: A Guide to Water‐Efficient Landscaping - A complete guide to rainwater harvesting and use published by Tucson Water
Rainwater Collection for the Mechanically Challenged by Suzy Banks & Richard Heinichen - Handbook to teach almost anyone how to install a rainwater collection system.
Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond – Volumes 1 (new 2nd edition) & 2 - Books, videos, images, plant lists, and resources on rainwater harvesting and greywater.
Watershed Management Group, Inc. - A Tucson-based not-for-profit organization that offers a complete array of water-harvesting landscape services for your home, business, school, and beyond. They also provide unique hands-on educational programs (including classes for the Tucson Water rainwater harvesting rebate program), customized trainings, and municipal watershed planning support.
Tucson Resources
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