Saving water is one of the most important contributions you can make to the future of our country. As gardeners, we all have a responsibility to use water wisely, so that there will be enough for the generations to come. Here are a few simple ways that you can make a huge difference to the amount of water that you use – that’s good news for the planet and for your water bill too.

Here are some easy ways to save this precious resource (and cut down your water bill!) :

• Never throw unused water down the drain. Use it to water pot plants or rinse dishes.
• Replace washers on dripping taps. A tap dripping at the rate of one drop per second wastes 10 260 litres of water a year!.
• Place a bucket in your shower and use the collected water to water your garden.
• Water your lawn deeply, but less frequently. Water once every five days in summer and once every two weeks (if necessary) in winter.
• Raise the blades on your lawn mower to their highest level. Longer grass blades will shade the roots of your lawn and also help to keep the soil moist for longer.
• Add water-retaining granules to the soil of all container plants.
• Invest in a water tank and use the collected water to water your garden and fill your swimming pool.
• A solid pool cover will prevent leaves from falling in your pool during winter and also reduces water loss due to evaporation.