Yorkshire Water to join RHS Harlow Carr half-term event in Harrogate

Yorkshire Water is set to join RHS Harlow Carr’s May half-term event next week to share specific horticultural water-saving advice with visitors during the ongoing dry weather. 

The Great Garden Gameathon is set to be a family-friendly event located in the grounds of Harlow Carr in Harrogate. Visitors can expect outdoor fun, giant lawn games and competitions for all ages. 

Representatives from Yorkshire Water will be attending the event to support with water-saving tips and advice for gardeners during the current spell of dry weather.  

Sarah Mullan, public programming manager at Harlow Carr, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Yorkshire Water this half term, with fun games for all the family and sharing important hints and tips for saving water at home.” 

Yorkshire Water will have a gazebo on the lawn area filled with activities and games to engage with visitors about the work Yorkshire Water is doing to save water and how customers can help. 

Children will be able to make their own mini rain catchers (for when the rain does pour), create watering cans from materials found at home and take part in the Higher or Lower game, with prizes to be won! 

Emily Brady, communications manager at Yorkshire Water, said: “Yorkshire’s just had the driest February, March and April in 90 years and it’s important that we all do our bit to save water where possible to help to protect the environment by keeping reservoirs and rivers topped up. 

“There are a variety of simple steps people can take to ensure they are making the most of the weather and their gardens, but not dramatically increasing the amount of water they use.” 

Some simple tips to reduce water usage in the garden include: 

• Using a watering can instead of a hose. You can save even more by watering plants with leftover water from the washing up bowl 
• Opting for drought-resistant plants which require less water to thrive, such as lavender and verbena. Pollinators also love these plants! 
• Watering your plants early in the morning, or in the evening, so that water doesn’t evaporate in the heat of the day before your plants get chance to soak it up 
• Adding a layer of leaves, bark or compost over your flower bed helps to retain moisture and reduce the need for watering 
• Allowing your lawn to go brown - it’ll bounce back as soon as it rains 

Yorkshire Water will be at RHS Harlow Carr on Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 May. 

For more information and admission fees, visit: https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr/viewevent?EFID=2212&ESRC=CMS