With one of the driest summers in recent memory, lawns across the UK are showing signs of stress. While Dorset has so far avoided a hosepipe ban, water restrictions could still be introduced if the dry spell continues. For businesses, hotels, and residential developments, it’s important to know how to keep your grounds looking presentable without the help of a hosepipe or sprinkler. This guide covers practical tips to protect your lawn now — and how to adapt if a ban is announced.
This summer has been one of the driest on record, leaving many lawns across the UK looking brown and stressed. While Dorset has so far avoided a hosepipe ban, other regions haven’t been as lucky — and with rainfall still scarce, it’s possible restrictions could be introduced here too.
For businesses, hotels, and residential developments, this raises an important question: How do you keep your grounds looking presentable without the help of a hosepipe or sprinkler?
At Warrens Gardens, we help commercial clients prepare for exactly this situation. Here’s how to protect your lawn now — and what to do if a hosepipe ban does come into effect.
Do Hosepipe Bans Apply to Businesses?
In most cases, hosepipe bans apply primarily to domestic use by homeowners. Many commercial activities — such as watering sports pitches, golf courses, and business premises — may be exempt, especially if the work is essential for operational or safety reasons.
However, exemptions vary depending on the local water company’s rules, and some restrictions can still apply to non-essential business use. For example:
- Essential watering for health, safety, or animal welfare is often allowed.
- Non-essential decorative watering (such as ornamental lawns) may still be restricted.
- You might need to use alternative watering methods such as drip irrigation or non-potable water.
If a hosepipe ban is announced, check your water supplier’s website for the exact rules affecting your business.
Prepare Your Lawn Before Restrictions Hit
- Water deeply but infrequently now to encourage strong root growth.
- Avoid shallow daily watering — it weakens the lawn’s resilience.
- Feed with a summer lawn fertiliser that boosts drought tolerance.
Mow Less and Keep It Longer
- Raise your mower blades — slightly longer grass shades the soil and reduces evaporation.
- Mow less frequently to avoid stressing the lawn.
- Always use sharp blades to prevent tearing.
Mulch to Lock in Moisture
Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing — they act as a natural mulch to slow water loss and protect the soil. Around trees and borders, apply a layer of bark or organic mulch to keep roots cool and moist.
Use Water Wisely
- Prioritise watering high-value areas such as entrance lawns, display beds, and event spaces.
- Use watering cans for targeted, efficient watering.
- Consider soaker hoses or drip irrigation if exemptions apply.
Consider Drought-Tolerant Grass Varieties
If you manage a site that repeatedly struggles in summer, reseeding with drought-resistant grasses can make your lawn far more resilient in future dry spells.
Don’t Panic if Grass Goes Brown
It’s important to remember: brown grass isn’t necessarily dead. In extreme heat, lawns enter a natural dormant state to protect themselves. With the first proper rainfall, most will green up again within a few weeks. Keeping edges neat and surrounding planting healthy can help maintain a tidy, professional appearance in the meantime.
Plan Ahead to Protect Your Grounds
By taking action now, you can safeguard your lawn’s health and keep your business exterior looking its best — even if Dorset faces a hosepipe ban later this summer.
At Warrens Gardens, we specialise in drought-smart lawn care, sustainable irrigation, and commercial grounds maintenance that keeps your property looking its best whatever the weather.
Contact us today to prepare your lawn for whatever this summer brings.
