INTRODUCTION

Now we have a hose pipe ban water should be used carefully around the garden.  Not using a hose pipe around the garden need not present a problem to gardeners.

HOW TO SAVE WATER & STILL HAVE A LOVELY GARDEN

 Install a drop irrigation system (we can advise and assist with planning your system).

1. Use a watering can to water newly planted plants, during dry spell ideally in the evening to reduce evaporation, and improve soil absorption.  Try not to water in direct sun light or the warmest part of the day.  If possible water and liquid feed more established plants as above.
2. Install water butts were ever possible around your property, garage, greenhouse or any other buildings were you can collect the water.  This potentially provides you with a source of free raining water.
3. Use waste water from your bath, or kitchen to water plants.
4. Mulch your soil and clear weeds to improve water retention for plants.

PREPARATION 

Good preparation of soil prior to planting is essential.  Dig over soil to at least one spade deep and incorporate plenty of organic matter to improve soil structure also aids water retention.  Examples are concentrated farmyard manure, Levington soil conditioner or a good multi-purpose compact tree & shrub compost; a combination of these could be used.  Make sure the finished level of soil (or mulch if using) will be lower than adjacent surfaces (such as path, patio and lawn), though soil and mulch will settle a little.

PLANTING/MULCHING

Until ready to plant, keep plants in a sheltered spot without too much direct light and water regularly with a watering can.  Before removing from their pots, water plants thoroughly then check that the rootball is soaked (or sit in a container of water until no air bubbles come out).  If planting will take place in the growing season (spring-summer), an organic fertiliser such as blood, fish & bone, bone meal, or chicken manure pellets should be mixed in to the soil to aid strong and healthy plant growth (particularly important for shrub and trees).  If planting at other times of the year, sprinkle on the soil surface, or fork in around plants the following spring.

After planting, water the plants in with a watering can.  We advise adding a thick layer of mulch (5-10cm of bark).  As well as helping to suppress weeds, it also retains moisture.

SUBSEQUENT CARE 

Water new plants thoroughly during dry weather with a watering can, 2 to 3 times a week preferably in the evening.  Soak around plants until the soil is wet, to ensure the water gets right down around the roots (a tree will take a much more watering).  A good technique is to water, then water again to ensure water reaches the plants roots, this also reduces run off and water wastage.  The use of sprinklers or a quick water are ineffective in borders.  This only dampens the surface and evaporates quickly, and must not be used during a hose pipe ban.

TAVERHAM PLANTING TIPS

Soak plants well before planting, and then water in well with watering can.  A good thick mulch (at least 3” (7.5cm)) will help keep roots moisture damp and conserved.

When planting mix some bone meal and compost in with the soil to give your plant the best start.

Dig a square hole not a round one, this will help the plants roots spread in to surrounding soil.