One question has been nagging at me since Thames Water announced a hosepipe ban last week: Can you use an irrigation system during a hosepipe ban?
I’ve already explored the rules around using an outside tap during a hosepipe ban, and as it turns out, there are a few workarounds – but what about an irrigation system?
Well, it depends on the type of irrigation system you have. Sprinklers, for example, are an absolute no-no – but there are one or two exceptions that, depending on your region, might just be the loophole you need to keep your garden hydrated. Here’s what you need to know.
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What you’ll need
Gardena
Micro-Drip-System
This micro-drip irrigation kit is ideal for pots, tubs and troughs, and setup is really straightforward. It contains everything you need!
Hozelock
Select Controller Plus Watering Timer
This timer allows you to set up a watering schedule for your micro-drip irrigation system. It can take the weather forecast into account, too.
RANRAO
Drip Irrigation Pressure Regular Valve
A pressure regulator valve is essential for micro-drip irrigation systems during a hosepipe ban, and this one is easy to install.
So, can you use an irrigation system during a hosepipe ban?
As I mentioned before, it all depends on what kind of irrigation system you have. Some will make the cut, while others are illegal under the restrictions – so if you’re looking for ways to water your garden during a hosepipe ban, you’ll need to make sure you’re using the right system.
‘Typically, hose-fed sprinkler and micro-spray irrigation systems are prohibited during a hosepipe ban,’ says Craig Pennington, managing director at Universal Tankers. ‘However, in most cases, a drip or trickle irrigation system that delivers water drip by drip to the plant’s soil is permitted.’
So, drip watering systems like the GARDENA Micro-Drip-System (available at Amazon) generally get the green light during a hosepipe ban – but you’ll need to pair them with a couple of other components, and check your local provider’s exact hosepipe ban rules, to be on the safe side.
‘These irrigation systems must be fitted with a pressure-reducing valve and timer to keep water usage to a minimum,’ says Craig. You can order drip irrigation pressure regulators from Amazon.
‘Exact rules can vary depending on your local provider, so check your water company’s website to be sure,’ Craig adds. ‘Temporary Use Exemptions (TUB) should outline the regulations regarding the use of irrigation systems during a ban.’
Thames Water, for example, says an irrigation ‘is allowed, as long as you’re using an approved drip or trickle irrigation watering system. It must be fitted with a pressure-reducing valve and a timer that are not handheld. They must place water drip by drip directly onto or beneath the soil surface. It must not cause surface runoff or dispersion of water through the air using a jet or mist.’
Best-selling author, YouTube sensation and grow-your-own expert, Huw Richards, who is working with watering and hand tools brand GARDENA, also champions the benefits of a micro-drip irrigation system during a hosepipe ban. He actually recommends using them with stored rainwater to guarantee that you’re not breaking any hosepipe ban rules.
‘Use a micro-drip system (attached to stored rainwater) to apply water directly to the roots, as close to the stem as possible,’ says Huw. ‘Micro-drip irrigation systems can be set up to precisely target vegetable beds, potted plants and even balconies during the drier months. These systems can be paired with a water controller or timer, giving you time to tend to other tasks knowing your plants are getting the right amount of water at the right time.’
Devices like the Hozelock Select Plus Controller, which you can buy from B&Q, draw water from water butts and buckets.
So, micro-drip irrigation systems can generally be used during a hosepipe ban. Always make sure you check your local water provider’s website first, though, because rules sometimes vary by region.
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