Why Save Water? 

• 500 rivers, lakes and wetlands in England are at risk of damage from excessive water withdrawals.
• The UK is one of the last European countries without universal water metering.
• Find out more... 

Top tips for saving water in the garden:

• Collect rainwater in water butts and watering cans, this can be used instead of mains water.
  
  
• Cold greywater from baths and showers can be used on most non-edible plants if applied to the soil rather than foliage.
  
  
• A healthy soil with plenty of organic matter will retain moisture and nutrients. Make your own compost in a compost bin and reduce household waste at the same time!
  
  
• Choose plants for drought tolerance and compatibility with your soil and intended position. They won’t need as much watering!
  
  
• Let the grass grow – it helps shade the soil and reduces the need for water. If you must water your lawn, infrequent soaking is better than regular sprinkling as it encourages the roots to search for water. If the grass turns brown, it does not mean that it has died: it will recover when it rains.
  
  
• Some varieties of grass are particularly suited to dry conditions, such as fescue grasses and smooth stalked meadow grass, so if you are planting a new lawn consider using these.
  
  
• Consider decking, gravel or paved areas as an alternative to planting, they are low maintenance and don’t need watering!
  
  
• Water in the early morning or evening to lessen the risk of evaporation.
  
  
• Use a watering can instead of a hose pipe. If you must use a hose fit a trigger nozzle so you can control the flow. Try and avoid using a sprinkler system.
  
  
• Water the roots of the plant, not the leaves, less water will be wasted through evaporation and runoff.
  
  
• Cover the soil around plants with a layer of mulch, gravel or wood chippings to help retain soil moisture.
  
  
• Don’t water your plants too often; this will discourage them from putting down deep roots, making the plant weaker and less likely to search for water.