I thought long and hard about a theme for this month’s column and I’ve chosen one which, whilst not terribly glamorous, should be in every gardener’s mind these days – water conservation!

Hosepipes may well be available to us all summer – no bans have been predicted – and our gardens’ moisture levels are topped up. But it is amazing how quickly things can change. Here at Sheffield Park we are irrigation-free, which means we plant young small plants at the best time of year (mid to late autumn). These are left to establish without intervention from the watering can. This promotes strong root development and good “crown vigour”.

You may not be in a position to enjoy that option: you may have had to plant something in late spring or early summer and need to water during a dry hot spell just to see your plant through. However, you can start to think seriously about harvesting rain water. It’s not too late, as we will still have plenty of summer rainfall. Simple water butts positioned to collect from roof spaces are ideal and the water stored is very beneficial for your plants. If you have ericaceous-loving plants, you can put a few handfuls of pine needles into the butt to gently increase the acidity levels.

Try to target your plants; by that I mean water them to maximum effect. For instance, our rhododendrons really benefit from wet autumns and this increases the amount of flowers they produce. Last autumn gave us lots of rainfall, so at Sheffield Park we are now experiencing a display of flowers that is so intense it needs to be seen to be believed. Camellias are the same, so use your harvested water and give them plenty in autumn time, and next spring your efforts will be rewarded.

The early mornings and late evenings are a great time to get some gardening in and an excellent time to water plants, as the water doesn’t evaporate in the sun. Hopefully, you’ll have some time in between to visit us at Sheffield Park. Bring a picnic and enjoy the spectacular colour now on show.