Drought-Proof Gardening: Buy plants with this colour leaves

How you can prepare now in case there’s a hosepipe ban this summer 

This week, South West Water announced they were extending a hosepipe ban that’s been in place across parts of Cornwall and Devon since the 2022 heatwave. Hosepipe bans, or Temporary Use Bans, can be put in place by water companies to manage water supplies, for example after very dry, hot periods.

The landscaping experts at Toolstation explain there are preparations you can make now to prepare for a potential hosepipe ban this summer: 

“Unfortunately, after a particularly dry winter, it’s likely there will be water shortages this summer. But there are things you can do now to prepare. These preparations will help to keep your lawn and garden alive and thriving in the event of a hosepipe ban.”

1. Plant now

“Plants are most vulnerable to water shortages when they’re first planted and still small. Gardeners will usually advise planting small plants in Autumn. Older, larger plants are more hardy, but you should still aim to get your new planting done before the dry weather begins.” 

2. Choose plants with grey or silver leaves

“Choose plants with grey-green or silver-coloured leaves as these require less water. These types of leaves reflect the sun’s rays, helping to conserve moisture within the plant tissues.” 

3. Healthy soil

“Healthy soil can hold moisture for longer. Prioritising improving the health of your soil now by adding organic matter like compost and manure could reduce the need for watering and protect your plants in the event of a hosepipe ban.”

4. Keep on top of weeding

“Like all plants, weeds need water to survive. Keep your beds weed-free to ensure they don’t deprive the plants you want to grow of hydration.” 

5. Water butts  

“Water butts are an affordable way to store rainwater for use in drier parts of the year. Even in dry regions of the UK, the RHS estimate 150 water butts full of perfectly clean rainwater could be collected from each roof every year. 

“If you’re looking to save time, a water butt pump is a great idea – these help increase the water pressure.” 

6. Water pump

“If you live in an area that’s regularly affected by hosepipe bans and your home is near a river, canal or stream, it could be worth investing in a water pump.

“In many instances, as a property owner, you’re legally allowed to draw water from a surface water source to irrigate your garden. A water pump makes transporting water from the water source to your garden quick and effortless.” 

7. Grey water 

“Domestic wastewater from things like baths, showers and kitchens can be used to water your garden too. Household soaps and detergents won’t harm your plants, but you’ll want to avoid reusing water that contains cleaning products like bleach and dishwasher salt.”