During warmer weather, keeping your garden in good shape can be hard. In this week’sheatwave, it’s crucial to take extra steps with your plants.
Many of us look forward to spending time in our garden during the summer, whether it be gardening, relaxing with a good book, or entertaining family and friends. If you’re spending time in your garden, you’ll want to keep it looking its best. Gardening expert Calum Maddock has shared some of the best ways to keep your garden safe and cool during a heatwave.
During a heatwave like the one the UK is experiencing this week, your plants will struggle much more than they do in the regular, cooler temperatures that they have become acclimatised to.
They will usually require much more frequent watering to keep moisture levels in the soil at an adequate level during the hot, dry spell.
The best time to water your plants during a heatwave is either in the early morning or late evening, while the temperatures are still relatively cool.
This will ensure that the soil is able to fully absorb the water and send it down to the roots of the plant before the hot midday sun has a chance to evaporate it.
Calum says there’s one crucial tip you need to follow in warmer weather, he says: “For ground plants that cannot be moved, mulching is a great solution.
“Applying a layer of mulch (such as compost or bark chips) around the base of your plants can help to retain moisture in the soil by shading it and preventing the water from evaporating.
“This is an effective extra step in keeping your plants healthy and hydrated.”
Mulching will prevent your plants from dying and can help them stay green throughout the heatwave.
Calum, from HomeHow.co.uk also suggests moving vulnerable plants. He says your vulnerable plants should be moved either into a shaded area or indoors until the heatwave passes.
Obviously, this is not possible for ground plants, but it is perfect for those in a container, he says.
A shaded room or shed is ideal for the most vulnerable plants that need ultimate protection from the harsh sun.
By following the tips we have explored in this article, you can ensure that your garden will stay green and healthy this summer despite the heat.
This week’s heatwave is set to peak today at 6pm, when temperatures could reach up to 34C in Essex and 33C in London, Kent, Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk.
Amber heat warnings have been issued for the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, and the South East until 6pm today. Meanwhile, yellow warnings are in place over the same period for the South West, Yorkshire and the Humber, the North West, and the North East.
