Thames Water has implemented a temporary usage ban for 10.1 million customers due to a high demand for water, as a result of recent heatwaves and prolonged dry weather in the spring and summer. The restrictions mean hosepipes should not be used for watering gardens, washing cars, allotments, filling paddling pools or swimming pools, or cleaning windows. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has advised gardeners managing through hot weather or hosepipe restrictions, to use stored rainwater or grey water where possible and to water deeply but less frequently at the base of plants rather than little and often. Guy Barter, chief horticulturalist at the RHS, said: "As our climate continues to change, adapting how we manage water is essential. "During a visit to our RHS Gardens you can see what plants are working well in the current conditions and our teams are on hand to offer advice and support."