Most of us enjoy the blue skies and sunshine of summer to the more inclement winter weather. But after a dry winter, reservoirs in France are below normal levels and almost a quarter of French departments are already facing usage restrictions.

Gillian Harvey explores how we can all help...

Earlier this year, President Macron announced a water crisis plan which includes over 50 ways in which to share, reuse and save water. And while a great many of his proposals need to be carried out at a governmental level (an average of 20% of water is lost to leaks in France), or apply to agriculture or business, there are lots of things we can do to save water, make the most of supply and keep our gardens as healthy as possible to boot.

One way to save a significant amount of water is to use ‘run off’ water many of us waste when waiting for hot water to come through a tap or shower. Paula Hirst from Deux-Sèvres saves water this way and gains around two litres a day: “I catch the run-off water from the tap to use on plants, dog bowl, kettle, bottle in the fridge, etc,” she says. “I also save washing up water for the garden if it’s not too dirty.”

As well as collecting water, it’s possible to reduce the amount of water you use in the first place by taking simple, thoughtful steps. Many of us are guilty of leaving the tap running when brushing our teeth, and who hasn’t spent a few extra minutes in the shower to reach the end of Bohemian Rhapsody before exiting (just me?). Taking care of any leaks or dripping taps can work wonders and, although we’re not advocating being dirty, it’s worth considering how often your clothing really needs to be washed.

Of course, when it does rain, you’d do well to hang on to some of that free water falling from the sky. The easiest way to do this is by using a water butt – but you can maximise your yield by having more than one. Minimise waste by connecting two butts together and see your water bill plummet. “Make sure water butts are well covered for safety purposes and to reduce mosquitoes,” says horticulturist Ruth Howlett (who trades as Mme Jardinière) from Charente-Maritime. “And investigate whether your house has a cistern underground, many old French houses do so it’s worth exploring.”

Depending on rainfall and the size of your water butt, you may be able to save 20,000 litres of water or more this way. And the great news is, this water can be used freely in paddling pools and on flowerbeds, whatever restrictions are in place. An extra plus is the natural water may well be better for those with sensitive skin.

Keen gardeners may shudder at the thought of having to reduce the water on their gardens, but as well as harvesting rain water to freely use on your precious plants, there are ways to use that water wisely and protect your plants from the worst of the dry weather.

“Improving your soil is absolutely vital,” says Howlett. “For example, use mulch around a plant to act both as a weed suppressant and to keep the soil moist for longer. If you’re trimming a hedge, shred the trimmings and put them back under the hedge.

Soil can also be improved by using compost. “Many mairies are giving out composters at the moment, so ask to see if that applies in your area,” recommends Howlett. “There are lots of articles on how to make decent compost online, and it really is easy.”

In addition, some recommend putting water retention gel in your pots, which can improve the resilience of the plant.

“Planting plants closer together can also help to preserve moisture,” explains Howlett. “It sounds counter-intuitive, but the proximity will actually mean they provide more shade to the soil. And do your research – choose your plants based on the climate and look around to see what grows well in your area.

If you’re thinking of creating an English country garden, it’s probably best to think again. Rather than set yourself up to fail, consider plants that are better adapted to a climate that can reach 40 degrees in the summer. “I’ve noticed in French gardens they rely a lot on sculpture,” says Howlett. “In certain seasons it’s hard to have points of interest, but using old stone to form a rock garden, for example, can be a great way to keep your garden looking great without increasing the need for watering.”

Watering in the early morning or evening will ensure that the plants get to make the most of the moisture before it evaporates in the heat. “Water at the base of the plants and if you can use water spikes to ensure as much water as possible gets to the roots. Try making a little dip around the plant in the soil to make sure the water doesn’t splash or run away, but sits at the base of the plant.”

While it’s not ideal to use ‘dirty’ water on our flowerbeds, in a drought some water is better than none. “Plants are much more likely to die through lack of water than from a bit of soap,” says Howlett. “Use an eco-product that doesn’t contain petrochemicals when you’re washing up, and use it sparingly.” Others take this measure to extremes: “I know of quite a few people who were saving their bathwater last year,” she adds.

With a little forward thinking, a more mindful attitude towards water waste and a decent rainwater collection system in place, we – and our flowerbeds – can look forward to the summer without fear.

Find more helpful tips and advice in the June issue of Living Magazine...