With the implementation of the hose pipe ban for many areas of the UK, a key issue for many landscapers and growers this year will be how to conserve water. Martin Lishman Ltd has a range of products to help reduce water usage.

Compost tea made with Growing Solutions Compost Tea Systems has been shown to increase soil water retention and improve the chances of plant survival in times of drought.

Applying compost tea improves the incorporation of organic matter in the soil which results in a significant increase in the water holding capacity. Trials in the USA have shown that a 1% increase in soil organic matter creates a 50 litre per cubic metre water holding capacity.

Trials in the UK during the 2011 spring drought showed a significant increase in root growth and penetration to deeper soil horizons where water can be reached.

Water savings of up to 40% can be gained by using the new Rootwell tree and shrub irrigation and aeration tubes, launched in the UK at the Olympia Landscape Show by Martin Lishman Ltd.

The tubes help minimise run-off, while raising oxygen supply to roots 10-fold. They help maintain a healthy root-zone, especially in extreme conditions. In dry conditions water can reach the roots with minimal evaporation loss.

Recent studies in the USA show that three months after transplanting, trees irrigated with Rootwell had 48% more new root dry weight at a depth of 18-36cm below the surface compared to drip irrigated trees. Rootwell has proved to aid in faster establishment of transplanted trees compared to drip irrigation.

To find out more, visit www.martinlishman.com