Why is watering the plants such a major headache? Probably because we don't tend to make plans for our hot summers earlier in the year. Let's face it, hosepipe bans are increasingly common year after year, especially in the south of the country.

So if you're dashing around trying to find means of keeping those gardens watered while you are away, why not take a few minutes out, sit down in that deck chair and make a few notes.

The first task should be to think of means of collecting as much rainfall as possible throughout our wetter months rather than letting it run away down the drains. A few waterbutts strategically placed to collect water from guttering will soon fill up with rainwater, which is much better for plants than tap water. If you have any other large empty containers leave them out in the open to collect any rainfall. If you know it is going to rain leave your watering cans outside to catch the water. Should you be on a water meter this will undoubtedly save you plenty of pennies! I recall using our bath water to water the plants back in the summer of 1976 and, believe me, plants won't mind how dirty the water is- they are not fussy! Just don't put loads of bath oil in, as that will not be appreciated. Again dishwasher water or washing up water can also be recycled, but not if it contains detergent or salt.

If, like me you have many containers filled with all manner of plants, then try to stand them on saucers or even old dinner plates, anything that will capture any falling moisture. Those large gro-bag trays are great. Quite a few containers can sit in each one and the trick is to keep the tray full of water.

This will save the neighbours' watering time. A saucer in the bottom of your hanging basket will act as a reservoir, whilst a tube with holes drilled in it in the middle of your strawberry or herb planter will ensure that all the plants receive a share of any water. Gravel or small stone chippings on the top of a pot around the plants will help keep existing moisture in the soil. Most garden centres sell water-retaining crystals that can be mixed in with the compost when tubs and baskets are made up and these will again help to keep the water in longer.

In times of water shortage containers and newly planted trees and shrubs should take priority over established plants, whose roots will readily search out water deep in the soil. Recently planted shrubs, trees and so on will need plenty of water and not just a trickle here and there as is so often the case. Spend time with each plant letting sufficient water soak its way down to the roots and the plant will really thank you for it. The best way of keeping moisture in the ground is to dig in loads of organic matter throughout the year, especially in the autumn and winter months and add a layer of composted or chipped bark around the plants. The bark will prevent any water evaporating from the soil and will prevent any weeds from growing and draining the water reserves. It will also give your back a break!

Unless the lawn is a newly laid one please try and forget about it in times of severe drought or even in a normal summer. Grass is tough and will miraculously green up when the rains come. Trust me on this one! Hopefully, taking those few quiet moments to think and plan will guarantee a less stressful and more relaxing summer next year.