Gardens Brace for Drought: Water Capture is Top Priority

The RHS, a prominent environmental charity managing five public gardens in England, announced significant investment plans for 2026. Water capture and management projects will receive the highest priority, a direct response to severe droughts experienced last year. This proactive approach aims to mitigate the effects of increasingly unpredictable weather.

The charity is also issuing a call to action for the UK's 34 million gardeners. Home gardeners are encouraged to implement similar water-saving measures this winter and spring. Preparations include enhancing soil with techniques like hollow tining and chop-and-drop, constructing rain gardens, and installing rainwater storage systems.

Across its gardens in Surrey, Essex, Devon, North Yorkshire, and Greater Manchester, the RHS is re-evaluating water allocation and research. Studies on soil health and detailed quantification of water use for individual plants and entire landscapes are underway. Additionally, the exploration of using grey-water from domestic sources is a notable part of the plan.

This strategic pivot signals a broader organizational shift towards adapting to climate change impacts, rather than solely focusing on reducing emissions. RHS Director of Horticulture, Tim Upson, emphasized that water is essential for gardens, human well-being, and the environment, necessitating adaptation to a 'new normal' of water management.