Managing landscapes through dry periods

Fears are growing that we will witness another drought this year after England saw its driest February in 30 years. The National Drought Group, which advises government on policy, are suggesting another hosepipe ban may need to be put in place, saying, “members are planning for the worst case scenario of another hot, dry summer and are managing water resources to reduce the risk of drought measures being required.’

According to reports, 63 per cent of rivers were below their normal levels for February and some reservoirs were considerably lower than anticipated. As landscape professionals and end users alike, we have to identify that water is not a limitless resource and should make every attempt to reduce our consumption as an individual and an organisation. We have to learn to adapt and water more efficiently to keep our planted environments bright, healthy and lush, we have to water more efficiently.

Irrigation manufacturers are stepping up to the challenge of climate change and are releasing new innovative products to help designers, installers and users achieve this possibility of efficient watering. From intelligent sprinkler nozzle design to non-blockage, sub-surface driplines and from cloud accessible controls to improvements in moisture sensing and interaction, the world of landscape irrigation has leapt forward.

When irrigation is essential, we should be clear on our efficient best practice with these considerations:

Water source – The majority of UK irrigation systems are supplied from mains water or ground water (boreholes, lakes etc) but does the project have any other untapped sources? Rainwater from roofs or hard surfaces can be used if filtered and treated correctly but ‘it never rains when you need it!’ so consideration needs to be paid to correct sizing of any collection vessel or tank for rainwater.

Control – The less manual watering the better, efficient watering is better achieved by automatic control. The majority of modern irrigation controllers have the ability to monitor water flow and detect leaks, interact with sensors and permit remote access by Wi-Fi, 4G or LAN so they can be checked and managed remotely.

Moisture sensors – Technology in sensing the level of moisture within the soil has much improved. Sensors will interact directly with the irrigation controller, adjusting cycle time to achieve the optimum water applications – only replacing the moisture lost through evapotranspiration and plant use, instead of blanket watering.

Spray and drip Irrigation – Spray irrigation technology has moved forward leaps and bounds with highly efficient nozzles from a range of manufacturers but ultimately the most efficient way to water any plant is directly to the roots. Sub-surface dripline (where appropriate) now represents the most efficient method of applying water but has its drawbacks. As a contractor it is susceptible to damage at installation stage and also post completion when the client or landscaper needs to dig.

For landscapers and groundscare teams keeping outdoor spaces in full bloom against the tide of a constantly changing climate is challenging at the best of times. So now, more than ever, it’s time to learn to adapt to the changes and equip ourselves with the latest tools and study the technologies that will assist in our cause to keep landscapes maintained for all to enjoy.