garden

time, enriching the soil with organic matter and improving its waterholding capacity.

10. Freshly cut grass clippings can be used as mulch in a drought garden. Spread a thin layer of clippings around plants to help conserve moisture.

11. Fallen leaves make an excellent natural mulch option. Collect, then spread them around your plants. Leaf mulch not only helps conserve moisture but also adds organic matter to the soil as it breaks down.

12. When applying mulch, ensure you don't place it directly against the plant stems or trunks to prevent rot and disease. Leave a small gap around the base of the plant.

13. Regularly check the moisture level of your soil before watering. Use a moisture meter or simply stick your finger into the soil to assess its moisture content. Only water when necessary to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other plant health issues.

By implementing these water conservation practices in your garden, you can minimize water waste, support the health of your plants, and contribute to sustainable gardening practices.

Code 3 - (heightened alert)

▪ Stricter limits on watering gardens (and all green spaces). There are exceptions for vegetable gardens plus trees and bushes. You are not [permitted to water these between 11am to 6pm.

▪ Tighter restrictions are placed on car washing, with a possible complete ban in some areas

▪ Water usage for agricultural use is limited even further (not permitted between 9am and 8pm)

▪ No filling of public swimming pools

▪ Roofs, pavements, facades - Banned except if done by a professional cleaning company

▪ Code 4 - (crisis)

▪ Water use is only permitted for necessary means, including for drinking, health, cleaning and public safety

▪ Ban on watering gardens (and all green spaces). Again, with exceptions for potagers, trees and bushes within certain hours (banned between 11am - 6pm)

▪ Sports grounds during the day cannot be watered unless for a national or international event

▪ Ban on washing cars

▪ Ban on filling swimming pools

▪ Ban on water usage for most agricultural practices

▪ Roofs, pavements, facades - Can only be done by a professional cleaning company