WaterAid has revealed that a third (35%) of garden enthusiasts have struggled with water shortages and more than a third (38%) have experienced increased heat stress.

An overwhelming majority (82%) have noticed their garden, plants or home-grown produce being affected by hotter summers and prolonged heavy rainfall, with 60% being concerned about how climate change might impact their outdoor spaces in the future.

The charity surveyed 2,000 people ahead of its garden at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which opens to the public tomorrow. The WaterAid Garden by designer Tom Massey and architect Je Ahn will highlight the need to conserve water, with flood and drought resilient plants featuring around a rainwater-harvesting pavilion.

It highlights “the need to adapt to the changing climate to ensure water keeps flowing, whatever the weather,” says WaterAid CEO Tim Wainwright.

“The garden, made possible by Project Giving Back, is inspired by WaterAid’s work alongside communities across the world and we hope it will help people recognise the life-changing impact water has on everyone around the world.”

Only one in 10 people (8%) feel very confident in their understanding of climate sustainable garden practices, according to WaterAid’s survey. Garden designer Tom Massey is hoping visitors will take ideas away from the Chelsea exhibit.

“In recent years, British horticulture has felt the effects of extreme weather – including heatwaves, drought and flooding. As our climate changes water scarcity and insecurity is becoming more commonplace – here in the UK and around the world,” says Massey.

“We can all do things to help mitigate climate change, such as improving soil health, planting greenery to provide shade, and, most importantly, managing water sustainably.”