Using a waterbutt

Store rain water for use during dry spells and reduce flooding in wet periods. Plants prefer rainwater too!

Using a watering can instead of a hosepipe

Direct the water at the roots where it is needed, rather than the leaves

Placing drip-trays beneath pots to collect drainage

They collect drainage and nutrients for better plant growth (but remove in winter to avoid waterlogging)

Avoiding watering my lawn

Longer grass means deeper roots and more drought resilience, so raise the mower blades too!

Longer grass means deeper roots and more drought resilience, so raise the mower blades too!
 

Adding mulch around new plants

Wood chip or bark lets the rain through and reduces soil evaporation, meaning less watering is required whilst roots establish

Adding home-made compost to my soil

Healthy soil holds more water so plants suffer less from drought
 

Choosing the right plant for the right place

Find a plant to match to your garden environment

Using self-watering pots or baskets

They capture rain, drainage and nutrients for better plant growth. Plants will require less watering too

Swapping paving for plants

De-pave an area and fill it with plants and mulch to slow down runoff and encourage infiltration
 

Choosing permeable paving rather than hard landscaping

Slow down runoff, reduce flooding after high rainfall and help in Greening Great Britain