When today’s toddlers are thinking about retiring, will the south coast of England look much as the south coast of France does now? If you listen to some experts discussing climate change, they would have you believe that we’ll be growing grapes in the Scottish lowlands, which might be good, and that Norfolk will be under water, which would be bad. Other experts insist that the rise in temperatures will be far less dramatic, or that the alterations are a blip within the natural cycle of climate change.

As Edward Church of property specialists Strutt & Parker says, ‘Whatever the reason, this country is slowly becoming warmer, and even tiny changes can make a big difference. This is especially the case for anyone involved in growing things – whether its crops, trees, plants or flowers.’

Average rainfall in England and Wales has been well below average since the beginning of 2005, and many areas have only seen about 70%, or even 50%, of the usual levels. Groundwater levels have dropped therefore, and rivers and reservoirs are looking unimpressive. There are already hose pipes bans in some areas and other wasteful forms of water use may be prohibited. To avoid that happening, rainfall over the next three months will need to be at least 20% above average.

The worst affected parts of the country are Kent and Sussex - but London, the Thames valley, East Anglia and the South Coast are experiencing serious difficulties too. The county of Kent, not known as the Garden of England for nothing, has seen only 5% of its average rainfall this year. Several reservoirs in the county are just over half full, and the River Medway is below what is described as its minimum level.

There will be hosepipe bans, and the water companies may attempt to ban car washes, the watering of crops, and certain commercial practises which involve a high level of water use. Despite a government commitment we may yet see water meters installed compulsorily across wide areas.

All this is bad news for gardeners, and while those in the Welsh hills, the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands may not have anything to worry about – now or for generations to come – their compatriots in the South-East may have to take action soon.

Edward agrees, ‘If we are going to see prolonged water shortages in the future, and the rationing of supplies that would then be inevitable, gardeners and commercial horticulturalists would be well advised to start thinking now about what and how they will plant in the future.’

In has been suggested that gardeners and landowners in the South Downs should be encouraged to plant trees native to warmer climates, such as Mediterranean species, rather than the traditional species. Climate change could seriously affect the life span of our traditional types of tree, and older trees make be susceptible to new diseases and insect infestation. Plus, these imported types of tree need to take less water from the soil than most native species.

While no one wants to see our favourite trees disappearing from the landscape that does make sense. There might even be a positive benefit; the Victorians brought great variety into their gardens by introducing exotic species from abroad and became expert at nurturing them.

Edward says, ‘A return to those fashions, albeit of necessity, would be quite exciting. Experts are suggesting that species such as those in the dwarf pines family, Eucalyptuses, the broadleaf Holm Oak and the Corsican Pine might become regular sights in the English countryside. We might also see new types of fruit tree, such as sweet chestnut, kiwi fruit and fruiting walnut. Tree growers should also beware of possible changes in growing conditions; for example, dry conditions can bring subsidence.’

So far as smaller plants and shrubs are concerned, there are a few straight forward and commonsense tips:

• Storing water is an obvious move. Huge amounts of water runs off roofs, and a good supply of butts will make a big difference. And the water is free!

• Siphon water straight into the garden from your bath.

• New plants should be put in the ground as early as possible in the Spring so that they have time to establish themselves.

• A generous helping of the appropriate fertiliser will give new plantings a head start.

• Once plants are in try not to disturb the soil, even for weeding. Mulch is useful as it discourages weeds.

• Do some research and go for plants that thrive in drier rather than wetter conditions.

• Don’t worry about lawns turning brown when it’s especially dry. Grass has a great ability to regenerate.

In conclusion, Edward says, ‘Nobody yet knows for sure what the real effects of increasing temperatures will be, but gardeners, foresters and horticulturalists should start thinking about its ramifications now. At the worst we can avoid its most damaging effects, and at best we can enjoy introducing some new and exotic species into the landscape.’