Take mulch for instance. Any bare dirt in your garden can be covered with a 2-inch layer of mulch to prevent evaporation. This mulch can take the form of soil conditioner, organic compost, shredded gorilla hair and more. The key is being generous with your application. A 2-inch layer will not only make the garden look much more attractive than bare dirt, but also help prevent weed seeds from germinating.
Mulch and good soil as a whole will aid water absorption and water-holding capacity. Enrich soils with compost, peat moss, gypsum, milorganite, etc.
Drip irrigation or so-called spitter emitters will deliver a slow dose of water over a period of time to individual plants. Systems are relatively easy for the do-it-yourselfer, but beware that gardens with lots of plantings may be difficult to do. You'll end up with black tubing spread everywhere and dozens of emitters.
One of the best ways of watering is to use a soaker hose that waters the root zone instead of on top of the leaves. You can buy soaker hoses or even make your own. Use a section of an old garden hose and poke holes in it with a needle. Buy a cap for the end of the hose or use a spray nozzle in the off position as a cap.
Having a well-designed, well-timed irrigation system saves money and reduces water waste. Obviously, you don't want water running onto the street or pavement; keep the water on the grass or plants. Sprinkler timing devices range in price and are fairly easy to use. Remember to adjust the timer according to changing weather conditions.
When you water is also important. Try to water in the early morning or in the evening. This will save against evaporation. Also, remember not to tease plants by sprinkling. Sprinkling also encourages shallow root systems. Instead of sprinkling every day, deep soak a couple times a week in hot weather.
Setting the lawn mower to either the second-highest notch or highest notch will result in a higher blade of grass. Longer grass allows less evaporation, stronger root systems and the need for less water. Usually you can lower the mower setting come winter; raise it this time of year.
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