Managing your garden during a heatwave

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy your garden, but when a heatwave hits, it can be challenging to keep your plants healthy and vibrant. Extreme heat can stress your garden, especially following prolonged periods of wet and cold weather, but with a few smart strategies, you can help your plants thrive even in the hottest conditions. Here are some expert tips to help you manage your garden during a heatwave.

1. Water Wisely

Early Morning or Late Evening: Watering your plants during the coolest parts of the day helps minimize evaporation and ensures that water reaches the roots effectively. Aim for early morning or late evening watering sessions.
Deep Watering: Opt for deep watering sessions rather than frequent, shallow watering. This encourages roots to grow deeper, making plants more resilient to heat stress.
Use Mulch: Apply a thick layer of mulch around your plants to help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Organic mulches like straw, wood chips, or compost are excellent choices.

2. Shade Solutions

Temporary Shade: Use shade cloths, garden umbrellas, or even old bedsheets to provide temporary shade for your plants during the peak heat of the day.
Shade-Tolerant Plants: Consider planting shade-tolerant plants in areas that receive the most intense afternoon sun. Ferns, hostas, and heucheras can handle the heat better with some protection.

3. Soil Care

Improve Soil Structure: Prolonged wet and cold conditions can compact the soil, making it harder for roots to access air and nutrients. Incorporate organic matter into your soil to improve its structure and water-holding capacity. Compost, well-rotted manure, and leaf mould are great additions.
Check Soil Moisture: Regularly check the soil moisture levels. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.

4. Plant Selection and Placement

Drought-Tolerant Plants: Choose plants that are naturally more resistant to drought. Lavender, rosemary, and sedum are great options for UK gardens.
Grouping Plants: Group plants with similar water needs together. This makes watering more efficient and ensures that plants get the right amount of moisture.

5. Lawn Care

Raise Mower Blades: Set your lawn mower blades higher during hot weather. Longer grass shades the soil and reduces water loss.
Avoid Overwatering: Water your lawn deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Early morning is the best time to water.

6. Maintenance and Observation

Regular Checks: Walk through your garden daily to monitor plant health and soil moisture levels. Early detection of stress signs can prevent bigger issues.
Pruning: Prune any dead or damaged foliage to reduce plant stress and improve air circulation.

By taking these proactive steps, you can help your garden withstand the challenges of a UK heatwave, especially after a period of wet and cold weather. With careful planning and regular maintenance, your garden can remain a lush, green sanctuary even during the hottest summer days. Happy gardening!