Millions of households across the UK are facing the imminent prospect of hosepipe restrictions as parts of the country experience a scorching heatwave. With people not allowed to use hosepipes, other methods have been suggested to keep their lawns hydrated.
Experts from David Wilson Homes have teamed up with gardening expert Lucie Bradley to share how Brits can still keep their lawns healthy and hydrated during the restrictions. They said: “Another great way to help keep a lawn hydrated throughout the hotter summer months is to leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing – known as mulch.
“Not only does this help recycle the nutrients back into the soil, but it also helps the soil to better retain its moisture by slowing down dryness caused by evaporation.”
During hot weather and drought conditions, mulching becomes a crucial gardening strategy. By forming a protective layer over the soil, mulch significantly reduces evaporation, locking in precious moisture and keeping the ground hydrated longer – even when watering is limited due to restrictions.
This layer also acts as insulation, shielding the soil from the intense heat of the sun, helping to regulate temperature and prevent roots from overheating.
Additionally, mulch plays a key role in weed control; it deprives weed seeds of sunlight, preventing them from sprouting and competing with your plants for water.
Beyond immediate benefits, organic mulch gradually decomposes, contributing nutrients back into the soil and improving its structure and fertility over time.
Altogether, it’s a simple yet powerful way to boost plant resilience and maintain garden health under pressure.