Green lawn: UK gardeners told to stop doing this
Green lawn hidden danger in your watering routine.British gardeners keen to cut costs and protect the environment have started reusing grey water to keep lawns lush. With rising water bills and climate concerns, this seems like a clever solution. However, experts at My Home Improvements have issued a warning. One common mistake is harming lawns across the UK, and many don’t realise until it’s too late.
The truth behind the ‘green’ approach for a green lawn
Reusing washing-up water might feel eco-friendly, but it contains more than just water. Dishwater often holds grease, detergents, and harsh chemicals. These break down soil microbes, weaken grass roots, and damage the balance lawns need to stay healthy. Symptoms start small: patchy growth, yellowing, or dry patches. But left unchecked, the damage worsens fast.
Real-life warning from a Reading couple
Clive and Angela, a retired couple from Reading, thought they were helping during last summer’s dry spell. They watered their lawn with leftover dishwater to save mains water. “We thought we were being clever,” Angela shared. “It felt right.” But within weeks, their lush grass turned dry and yellow. “It looked like it had been scorched,” Clive said. A local gardener soon revealed the detergent in their washing-up water had harmed the lawn. “We were trying to help but caused more damage,” Angela admitted.
What experts recommend instead
Sophie Willoughby, an RHS-trained horticulturist, warns against using dishwater. “It’s packed with phosphates and surfactants. These strip away helpful organisms and damage the soil,” she explains. She recommends using only grey water free from soaps or food waste. “Plain bathwater is usually fine, if there’s no bubble bath or shampoo,” she adds.
Simple ways to water safely for a green lawn
Collect rainwater in a water butt. It’s free, clean, and ideal for all garden use.
Reuse only soap-free water, like cooled veg water or clean bathwater.
Water lawns early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Soak deeply once or twice a week rather than watering daily.
Final advice from the experts
A My Home Improvements spokesperson says, “We all want greener lawns and lower bills. But the way you water matters more than ever. Speak to a local garden expert before changing your routine. Our service helps you compare trusted advice and quotes for everything from small fixes to full landscaping.”
RHS has advice on lawns for summer www.rhs.org.uk/lawns/spring-summer-care
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