Hose Pipe Ban - Tips On Conserving Water
Some of us may have had some rain in the past few days but the reservoirs have to be replenished before the hosepipe ban is lifted. Here's some EVERY DAY tips on conserving water from waterwise...
Only use your dishwasher or washing machine when they are full.
Re-use your bathwater or washing up water to water your gardens - it won't harm the plants.
If you've got a modern toilet with dual flushing, use the short flush wherever possible.
Use a water butt to collect the rainwater from your roof, rather than wasting treated drinking water on your garden.
Use a watering can to water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening, when evaporation levels are at a minimum.
Think about choosing drought resistant bedding and perennial plants like African or French marigolds, petunias, geraniums, campanula or heuchera.
Use mulch to reduce evaporation by up to 70%
Use water saving crystals which expand and hold the water in your soil when you water it and when it rains.
Dont waste water by using a hosepipe to clean your paths, patios and driveways. Use a broom, rake or outdoor blower or vacuum instead.
Try not to cut lawns too short. When mowing, cut only the top third of the leaf area, leaving it three centimetres or higher. Reduce water loss even further by saving your lawn clippings to use as mulch on your lawn or garden.
Regularly check your outdoor taps, pipes and plumbing fixtures for leaks. Just one dripping tap can waste 2,000 litres a month.
It's best to water the roots and soil around plants rather than spraying the leaves and flowers.
For more water saving tips visit www.waterwise.org.uk
