As temperatures climb, NI Water is asking gardeners to go 'eau' naturelle by giving sprinklers and hosepipes a rest, stressing that established lawns can withstand dry spells and that trimming outdoor use helps ease pressure on water supplies during the busy summer months.

The utility says grass is tougher than it looks: when conditions are hot and dry, established lawns slow their growth, turn brown and simply wait for rain, before greening up again once moisture returns.

Reducing garden water use is an easy way to curb demand at peak times, NI Water adds, when households are already using more for drinking, cooking, washing and keeping families and pets hydrated.

NI Water education officer Anna Killen said: "We know people take pride in their gardens, but an established lawn does not need to be watered with mains water to survive a spell of warm weather. Grass is very resilient. It may turn brown and dry-looking, but in most cases it is simply resting and will bounce back when it next rains. "Using sprinklers or hosepipes on lawns can use a lot of water very quickly, and much of it can be lost through evaporation in hot weather. By leaving lawns alone, using a watering can for any plants that genuinely need it and making the most of rainwater where possible, we can all help make every drop count this summer."

NI Water's practical tips for saving water in the garden include:

- Leave established lawns unwatered during dry weather — they are built to recover when rain returns.

- Avoid sprinklers, which use large volumes and are less targeted than a watering can.

- Water pots, young plants and vegetables only when they need it, ideally early in the morning or evening.

- Choose a watering can instead of a hosepipe to stay in control of how much you use.

- Collect rainwater in a water butt to use around the garden on drier days.

Households are also encouraged to try the free Get Water Fit online water audit at www.getwaterfit.co.uk to learn more about their usage and find simple ways to save at home and in the garden.