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01
May
Yorkshire Water issues plea to gardeners
Yorkshire Water has urged people to use water wisely in gardens during the prolonged spell of warmer weather.
Yorkshire has experienced its driest combined February, March and April for 90 years, the company said in a press release today.
It added reservoir levels are at 76%, compared with an average of 90% for the time of year.
The company said the recent hot weather had led to an additional 80 million litres of water — the equivalent of Harrogate and York’s daily usage — being used.
Andy Shaw, head of water production at Yorkshire Water, said:
With the warm weather forecast this week and a Bank Holiday coming up, we know people are more likely to be out enjoying their gardens, which often leads to an increase in water use.
We always urge customers to use water wisely throughout the year, whatever the weather, and taking a few simple steps can help reduce usage and protect water supplies for the summer and beyond. There are a variety of simple steps people can take to ensure they are making the most of the weather and their garden but not dramatically increasing the amount of water they use.
Yorkshire Water tips
1. Use a watering can instead of a hose or use leftover water from the washing-up bowl
2. Keep on top of weeds in your garden - they compete with plants for moisture
3. Water your plants early in the morning, or in the evening, so that water doesn’t evaporate in the heat of the day before plants get chance to soak it up
4. Adding a layer of leaves, bark or compost over your flower bed helps to retain moisture and reduce the need for watering
5. Don't bother watering your lawn this weekend, it'll bounce back as soon as it rains
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