A guide to watering

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Conserving Water in the Garden

With our interesting but unpredictable weather it is always a good idea to collect rainwater in water butts to use for watering the garden and there are more things we can do to help our plants thrive in dry weather.

Watering

Water new plantings really well rather than light surface watering to encourage roots to reach deeper for water – use collected rainwater where possible. Water at the roots, not the foliage, and do so during the coolest times of the day to reduce evaporation. 

DRIP or TRICKLE Irrigation

These cost-effective water efficient systems deliver water direct to the roots where it is needed.  A properly installed drip irrigation system on a timer really does make a difference and plants can positively flourish.  With new plantings however it’s important to remember that plants may still need extra watering by hand whilst they are establishing particularly in hot, dry and windy weather.  Our landscaping team can design and install an irrigation system to suit your garden.  Contact them direct on info@creative-landscape.co.ukPlanting Accessories for new plantings

Our planting aids will help give your plants the best start:

• ROOTGROW – for a strong ‘water seeking’ root system

• WATERING TUBES – to direct the water where it needs to be

• MANURE or compost – to improve the soil

• MULCH – to hold the moisture inWater the planting hole before planting and allow to drain. Once planted, water in well before laying a generous 3-4” mulch of bark or gravel – this will help keep the weeds down too!

Gravel Gardens and drought tolerant plantsIf your garden tends to bake in summer, we have plenty of plants that can cope with drought conditions once established. Many are silver leaved, mediterranean style plants such as Olive trees and lavender and work well together to recreate that holiday atmosphere.

See Gravel Gardens for plant ideas and inspiration.

Lawns

Don’t worry about established lawns turning brown during a drought. This shows the grass has stopped growing, but most lawns will recover completely when the rain returns. During drought conditions, don’t cut lawns too short as longer grass sends down deeper roots and provides more shade.  Newly laid lawns will however require plenty of water whilst they establish.

You may consider replacing some lawn with a drought tolerant gravel garden as a move towards a lower maintenance garden that, once established, will cope well in drought.

Call our Creative Landscape Design and Build team on 0118 934 1500 or email us to arrange a free consultation and quote for landscaping or irrigation systems.