ADVICE has been offered for gardeners wanting to keep their plots looking lush despite the lack of rain the UK has endured over the past weeks and months.
The increased sunshine and temperatures, along with four UK heatwaves already this year, has meant areas across the country are dry and usually green areas are looking drab.
Add to that water shortages and – although not in our region – hosepipe bans, keeping gardens looking fantastic can be a challenge.
Calum Maddock at HomeHow.co.uk explores ways of keeping gardens thriving in dry conditions.
Use watering cans or buckets – The simplest and most effective method of watering gardens is using a watering can or bucket. Filling items from a mains tap is permitted and provides an albeit low tech effective solution. It also makes it easier to control where the water goes so people can prioritise plants that really suffer in dry conditions. Among these are plants growing in containers, newly planted species and pod and fruit-producing vegetables. Flowers, such as sweet peas and dhalias also benefit. Do not worry about brown lawns – the green colour return when the rain does fall.
Reuse greywater – Whilst watering cans can be effective to really conserve water, it is a good idea to make use of recycled water instead of going straight for the mains supply. ‘Grey’ household water from washing up, baths or laundry can be reused outdoors. It is important not to use it on vegetables and other edible plants, but it is a fantastic option for caring for your lawn and other plants. After washing dishes, use leftover water for ornamental or garden beds – make sure it is free of strong chemicals, such as bleach or strong detergents as these will damage your plants.
Harvest rainwater with water butts – This takes pre-planning as droughts are not often forecast but if you get one installed, it can prevent future hosepipe bans. Rainwater is great for plants as it is softer and contains fewer salts and chemicals than tap water. Install a water butt or rain barrel under a downpipe for free soft rainwater that can then be distributed to plants.
Set up a drip irrigation system – Some limited hose use is still allowed, for example, many water companies will permit watering recently planted trees and shrubs or vegetable plots, even during a ban. Automated drip or trickle irrigation systems can also run if they meet certain conditions – the system must be fitted with a pressure-reducing valve and timer and not be handheld. The system must place water drip by drip onto soil services or beneath and must not disperse it through the air, using a jet or mist.
Mulch to lock in moisture – Plants in containers and those planted directly in the ground will need extra care during dry spells because they lose moisture quickly. Container plants dry out faster because of roots being confined, but ground plants can also suffer if the soil gets too dry. Add a layer of mulch – such as bark chips, shredded leaves or gravel – around plants to keep moisture locked in, keep the soil cooler and reduce evaporation.
Water at the right time – Always water early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent losing it to evaporation. This will ensure the maximum benefit to plants. Water deeply, not frequently – a good soak gives plants a better chance at absorbing it.
Gardens do not have to suffer in drought, there are plenty of ways to keep them hydrated without relying on a hose. This ensures gardens thrive – even in a heatwave.
