So, they are predicting that this year will be as bad of a drought in Texas as last year.  I'm trying to plan my garden now, knowing that I will likely only be able to water once a week. Expecting temps in the 100s most days from June through August and little to no rain. (despite it being winter, my area is still under drought watering restrictions so I don't see those going away as spring and summer arrive) 

Any tips for growing veggies with little to no water?  Anyone know of certain veggies that do well with little to no water? (keeping in mind that "desert" plants don't typically do well here b/c of our thick clay soil) In the past we've done a drip water system, but that's "not allowed." Anyone have any tips on using "gray water" and/or setting up a gray water reclamation system on your own (can't afford help and I'm not exactly handy, though hubby is a bit better than me if I can get him onboard.)?

I wonder if you could use those water saving crystals like they put in containers, the ones that are supposed to absorb water then release it slowly?  I have no idea what this would cost or how much you would need.  I think that putting a drip hose under a layer of mulch will limit the amount of evaporation.  I don't know if this is practical for the area as you have it planned.  Hope your garden grows.

Thanks for the ideas. I'm going to look into those water saving crystals. We've always done the drip hose under the mulch in the past, but they are "banned" now so if I use it it has to be without anyone knowing. I don't know why b/c I think that is the least wasteful way to water.

When you do water?

I garden in New Mexico high altitude desert.  I use straw to mulch and that does the trick.  Lots of straw.  Then in the fall, till it in the soil with some chicken or horse poop and you have compost by spring already to go.  At least it works for me like a charm. 

When you do water?

Saturdays before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m. 

I'll try more mulch. :-)  Where in NM? My family has a cabin near Riudosa.

store some water in rain barrels or something like that  to use later. Also make some banks around your garden and flood it real deep. Plus use mulch to keep the moisture in. We get irrigation and only water once a week also. I works on all but the hottest weeks and then we can get more water. We also set or washer drain for grey water because we have a laundry pure machine.   http://ecoquestair.com/shop/eco_laundry/