If you want to save money & water, plant hardy native plants. They are acclimated to your area & once established, don't require additional water. Also use rain barrels to collect rain water & soaker hoses to avoid wasting water( for the non-native plants & veggies).
Also you can reuse a 2-liter pop bottle for watering. Cut off the bottom & plant it into the ground next to the plant. Leave 2 inches above ground. When you fill it with water, the water slowly goes down to the plant's roots. No fungus or sun scald on the leaves & no more wasted water.
Gloria
