A green and flourishing garden is a gardeners dream in the summer months, but with the current climate and hosepipe bans put into effect in some regions its important we do what we can do save as much water as we can.
According to the BBC rainfall is down 76% as we have seen recording breaking temperatures in July 2022. We have put together a few simple tips and tricks to save and recycle as much water as possible to keep your garden looking green and healthy if a hosepipe ban is put into action.
Reusing Water & Saving Rainwater
- Using greywater is a fantastic way to water your garden, and reuse and recycle the water from your baths and washing up bowls. Bare in mind it is best to use bio-degradable or eco-friendly soap if you have pondlife in your garden. Do not use this water on fruit and veg.
- Installing a water butt in your garden or allotment is another good way to collecting and reusing water for your plants.
Your Lawn
Grass is able to cope with less rain and in higher temperatures as they are typically resilient; here are a few tips for your lawn…
- Letting your grass grow longer means more moisture is retained
- Brown patches on your lawn does not mean the grass has died – they will grow back
- Use lawn seed that is water retentive
Healthy Soil
- Mulching on the surface of your soil or using bark helps retain moisture and reduce evaporation
- Add water retention crystals or gel to your soil to help retain moisture
- Adding a compost with a slow release fertiliser will help improve the health of your soil, and overall retain more moisture
Watering Tips
- Using a watering can reduces the amount of water used whilst still getting the right amount to your plant
- Get a rose for your watering can – this allows the water to be spread finer and evenly
- Grow drought tolerant plants in your garden
- A good through soak once a week is better than a sprinkle everyday
- Make sure you’re watering correctly – at base level
- Avoid sprinklers – they can use up too much water and are inefficient
- Keep on top of weeding – weeds will fight for the little water your plants have
Best Plants For Drought
Echinacea
Otherwise known as coneflowers, they are easy to grow with little maintenance required, come in a variety of colours and attractive to bees and butterflies.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the best drought tolerant plants, are fantastic for pollinators and easy to grow.
Nepeta
Fantastic for borders and containers, these wonderful blooms are long-flowering and attractive to bees and butterflies.
Achillea
A fantastic perennial particularly for drought, and used widely in wildlife gardens. Plant in a border for a pop of colour.
Veronica
These wonderful perennials are easy-to-grow, and produce wonderful spikes of colourful blooms. Drought tolerant and attractive to bees.
Perovskia
Otherwise known as Russian Sage, this fantastic plant is tough and resilient to drought, colder temperatures and all types of soil. Plant it in a sunny spot and it’ll sure be a lovely addition to any garden.
