We all know water is essential to keep our lawns, plants and flowers healthy, but it can be tricky to keep our gardens hydrated amid the warmer weather.
But with water a precious commodity, and with hosepipe bans now in place in some parts of the UK, tending to thirsty plants can be tricky for gardeners. Thankfully, there are ways of keeping the outdoors looking its best without using a hosepipe.
Gardening experts at The Greenhouse People suggested people use watering cans instead of hoses but should "still bear water usage in mind". They told the Express: "Avoid excessive watering by targeting key areas like potted plants (which need more water than bedded plants) and any plant species that need extra moisture.
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“Only use a watering can to water the base of the plant and soil, taking care to avoid the leaves which can become sun-scorched by water droplets during the height of the day. You should also only water early in the morning or evening when it’s cooler to prevent the water evaporating, giving your plants lasting hydration.”
People can also reuse their water from baths, kitchen sinks and even washing machines if they need to. This is a great short-term solution for hydrating the garden.
The experts said: “Soil and potting composts are very efficient for filtering contaminants, so it is generally safe to use grey water on your plants. Just be sure to use the leftover water within 24 hours to avoid bacteria building up.
“Best practice is to use water that hasn’t been exposed to harsh chemicals or contains too much salt content, so best to avoid using leftover water from your dishwasher or you may start to see salt residue developing on your plants.”
Gardeners can also help by letting their lawns grow long. The expert added: “Allowing grass to grow long can help your lawn retain moisture by preventing evaporation and creating a natural shade, shielding grass from the sun’s harsh rays. You can also lay a mulch over drought-susceptible areas to help lock in moisture, prevent sun-scorching and block weeds while enriching the soil with nutrients."
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