Hose Pipe Ban - Professional Exemptions - Forum

I saw today that the Turf Growers Association has recieved confirmation that United Utilities will stick by the proposed '28 Day' rule in the new Water Act that has been passed but not yet in force. It was stated that they expected other water regions to adhere to it when and if further bans come in force. United Utilities statement: "Anyone who has newly-laid turf put in by a contracted gardener is exempt for 28 days. We have been advised that this gives enough time for plants to take root" - I couldn't see a statement that says if it extends to Plants as stated in the new Act - I would assume so ? The TGA also issues the following DROUGHT TIPS: - Increase your mowing height to 35-40mm to create deeper roots and more shade and shelter from higher temperatures. - Try not to concentrate wear in one place - move barbeques and toys such as slides around. - No need to feed because grass will not be growing during hot, dry weather. - Avoid blanket weedkillers because these may damage the grass - use a spot weedkiller if necessary. - Keep mower blades sharp - blunt blades bruise the grass leaf and it loses more water. - Apply a light dressing of compost to help keep moisture in the soil and protect grass from higher temperatures. - Scarify your lawn once a year to remove matted and dead growth - if allowed to build up, this acts as a barrier to rainfall. This links back to our earlier discussion on the site last week: https://landscapejuice.ning.com/forum/topics/hose-pipe-ban-clarity-of-use Still no response from Thames Water & South East Water (our areas) should a ban come in to force.... Phil - can you blog this or something ?