Why Drip Irrigation Is the Best Way to Water Your Garden in a Hosepipe Ban

When hot, dry weather hits, the last thing you want is to spend your evenings with a watering can in one hand and a garden hosepipe in the other. Not only is hosepipe watering time-consuming, it's also inefficient—especially when water evaporates faster than your plants can absorb it.

That’s why more gardeners are turning to drip irrigation systems—a simple, sustainable solution that delivers water exactly where it’s needed, and even continues working during hosepipe bans.

What is Drip Irrigation?

Drip irrigation is a low-pressure watering method that delivers water directly to the base of the plants, where it's needed most—at the roots. Instead of spraying large areas like a sprinkler, drip irrigation systems release water slowly and precisely, reducing evaporation and minimising waste.

There are two common types of drip irrigation systems:

Drip line: A flexible pipe with pre-installed emitters (tiny holes) evenly spaced along its length. This is ideal for watering rows of plants, borders, vegetable patches, or hedges. Simply lay the pipe on the soil and let it do the work.

Individual drippers (emitters): Small fittings that can be positioned exactly where needed. Perfect for watering pots or irregular planting arrangements. Each dripper is inserted into tubing and directed to a specific plant

Both systems work quietly in the background and can be easily automated with a timer—so your garden stays hydrated without the daily effort of hosepipe watering.

Why Drip Irrigation Perfect for Dry Weather (and Hosepipe Bans)

During a drought or hosepipe ban, water restrictions often limit what types of watering are allowed. However, drip irrigation systems—including drip line and individual drippers—are typically exempt from hosepipe bans because they are so water-efficient.

That means:

• You can keep watering your garden legally during dry spells
• You'll reduce water usage while still helping your plants thrive
• You avoid overwatering and water runoff, which are common with manual methods

Ready to Future-Proof Your Garden?

Drip systems aren't just for large-scale setups or professional landscapers–they're ideal for home gardeners too. If you want to reduce your watering workload, conserve water, and prepare for dry spells, it's time to consider installing drip line or drippers.

Investing in drip irrigation isn't about removing the joy of gardening–it's about protecting it. With a little setup, your garden can flourish even through dry summers, and you can skip the evening ritual of untangling the hose.

Explore our range of drip irrigation systems and drip line designed to suit gardens of all sizes. For a step-by-step help, check out our Help & Advice section–packed with tips on installing your drip irrigation system with ease!