Hosepipe Ban

Thames Water have called for a hosepipe ban – Please see here for more information: https://www.thameswater.co.uk/help/temporary-hosepipe-ban

There are established growing schemes on several of our estates (Kipling, Tyer’s, Whites’s, Lawson. Southwark Council’s own Community Garden dept have issued the following information:

“Thames water are asking food growers to water with watering cans if possible. Be mindful of water wastage.

Watering with hose often leads to overwatering and lots of water wastage. Raised beds don’t need to be fully soaked.

Direct water straight to the base of the plant using a watering can with a rose attachment. Never spray foliage, as this causes water to evaporate before reaching the soil and increases the risk of fungal diseases.

Water at dawn or dusk: Hydrate your crops early in the morning or in the cool of the evening. Cooler temperatures and the absence of direct sun drastically cut down water loss from evaporation.

Check the soil before watering: Do not rely on a daily schedule. Poke your finger into the ground about 1 inch to 2 inches deep. If the soil feels like a freshly wrung-out flannel, it is adequately moist and does not need water.

Soak less frequently: Water deeply and less often to encourage crops to develop larger, deeper root systems

Protect the soil with mulch: Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch—such as wood chips, straw, or compost—around the base of your crops”