Gardening: Francis Tophill advises on watering plants without a hose
A hosepipe and sprinkler ban is being imposed on people in Kent and Sussex, starting on June 26 after South East Water said it had no choice after demand for drinking water had reached “record levels”.
After last year’s record heat levels, it is likely that more bans will be imposed on UK residents.
Gardening experts at The Greenhouse People said: “While gardeners may not be able to use their hoses or sprinklers, the ban does not apply to watering cans.
“You should still bear in mind your water usage. Avoid excessive watering by targeting key areas like potted plants (which need more water than bedded plants) and any plant species that need extra moisture.
“Only use a watering can to water the base of the plant and soil, taking care to avoid the leaves which can become sun-scorched by water droplets during the height of the day.
“You should also only water early in the morning or evening when it’s cooler to prevent the water evaporating, giving your plants lasting hydration.”
Britons can also reuse their water from baths, kitchen sinks or even leftover water from boiling vegetables.
This is good for a short-term solution, and it should be used straight away to keep plants healthy.
The experts added: “Soil and potting composts are very efficient for filtering contaminants, so it is generally safe to use grey water on your plants. Just be sure to use the leftover water within 24 hours to avoid bacteria building up.
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“You should also only water early in the morning or evening when it’s cooler to prevent the water evaporating, giving your plants lasting hydration.”
Britons can also reuse their water from baths, kitchen sinks or even leftover water from boiling vegetables.
This is good for a short-term solution, and it should be used straight away to keep plants healthy.
The experts added: “Soil and potting composts are very efficient for filtering contaminants, so it is generally safe to use grey water on your plants. Just be sure to use the leftover water within 24 hours to avoid bacteria building up.
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“Flip the bottle upside down and you’ll notice the water will begin to trickle, but this will quickly subside once a vacuum is created inside the bottle.
“Position the water bottle with the bottle lid just below the surface of the soil and use a stake to keep it upright. The bottle will slowly drip-release the water without you having to do a thing. You could even distil some liquid fertiliser for plants that need that extra oomph.
“Best of all, this hack can be used year-round and is perfect for the summer holidays, so you can enjoy your time away without worrying about your plants.”
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