Bournemouth, Eco & Environment | Posted on May 1st, 2025 | return to news
Water firm urges Bournemouth residents to save water in the garden
With high temperatures, Bournemouth Water is sharing advice on how to reduce water use in their gardens and save money.
With reports of a ‘mini heatwave’ in parts of the UK, water companies are urging residents across the country to reduce water use, especially in the garden.
Bournemouth Water has shared advice on how to save water – and cut bills – by using less in their garden. Here is their advice:
First, plant wisely. Think about where and what you plant and use hardy, drought-resistant varieties which can thrive in dryer environments. This will mean you can rest and enjoy the blooms rather than running around with a watering can all summer.
Water first and last thing. Watering plants in the morning or evening while it’s still cool ensures they are able to absorb all the water you’re feeding them.
Invest in a water butt. They are easy to fit and can capture water when it does rain.
Don’t worry about your lawn. If it needs mowing, set your lawnmower to cut higher and leave clippings where they fall to act as mulch.
Reuse water from the home. If you haven’t got a water butt full of rainwater, you could try saving washing-up water (as long as it doesn’t contain bleach) or bathwater by putting it into buckets and then using it to water your garden. Keep a jug by the sink to collect this water.
Use a watering can. It might take a more time, but will ensure you’re only using what your garden really needs.
Add a layer of mulch on top of soil to trap water. Depending on the type you use, it can also add nutrients to soil and stops weeds from growing. The best time to add mulch is in the spring. Weed your flowerbed or container and add a layer of mulch around the plants.
Soak up excess water. When you’re watering your pots, put an absorbent mat or saucer under them, so they catch the water as it flows through, and the roots can soak up the water left at the bottom. This will maximise the water that the plant is getting. Also, placing drip trays beneath pots will collect drainage to avoid waste from overwatering.
Thomas Harrison, from Bournemouth Water, said: “Gardening can be an important activity for many people and although it can use lots of water, there are plenty of small steps you can take to reduce water consumption.”
Bournemouth Water says it is playing its part in making sure the region’s water resources are as healthy as possible ahead of the summer with a 25-year plan of investment.
For more ideas on how to save water in the garden and in the home, and to view Bournemouth Water’s range of free water-saving devices, visit https://www.bournemouthwater.co.uk/household/your-services/save-water/every-drip-every-drop.
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