With temperatures rising across the UK, plants, lawns and vegetables all need a little extra protection to stay healthy. And according to an expert, common missteps during a heatwave could cause long-term damage to your garden.
According to expert florist David Denyer from Eflorist, even a short spell of high temperatures can wreak havoc on delicate blooms, particularly potted plants and cut flowers. “Even a short burst of extreme heat can cause lasting damage to plants,” David warned. Luckily, you just need to take a few preventive steps, to protect your flowers and greenery during the heatwave.
How to protect your plants from the heatwave
1. Time your watering appropriately
When it comes to watering, timing is everything, and the expert’s recommendation is to do it before 9am or after 7pm
He added: “Midday sun evaporates water quickly and can even scorch foliage. Morning watering is ideal. It gives the soil time to absorb the moisture before heat sets in.”
Early or late watering helps plants soak up moisture without the risk of burning leaves or wasting water.
2. Water deep and slow
David stressed the importance of slow, thorough watering, rather than quick, careless splashes.
He said: “Surface watering doesn’t cut it. Focus on slow, deep watering at the base of plants. For containers, make sure water reaches the roots by soaking the soil thoroughly.”
This ensures that water reaches where it’s needed most, keeping roots hydrated through the hottest parts of the day.
3. Create shade where you can
Just like people, plants need a break from direct sun, so a little makeshift shade can prevent heat-stress, especially for heat-sensitive flowers with shallow roots or fragile petals.
“Move potted plants to shaded patios, under trees, or behind taller plants,” said David. “Use garden fleece, parasols, or even an old sheet to shield delicate flowers for the day.”
4. Don’t forget your cut flowers
Flowers inside the home aren’t safe from the effects of heat either, but a simple routine can extend the life of your vase arrangements by days.
“Cut flowers should be moved indoors, away from direct sunlight or warm appliances,” David explained.
“Recut stems at a 45-degree angle and place in fresh, cool water, changing it daily. Add flower food if you have it, or a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of lemon juice as a homemade alternative.”
5. Group pots together
To help potted plants retain moisture, David recommends clustering them in one spot, which is particularly useful for patios or balconies where containers are more exposed.
“This reduces the rate of evaporation and creates a mini microclimate to keep soil cooler and moister for longer,” the expert said.
Know which plants need the most attention
David also noted that some flowers are especially vulnerable to heat stress. For example, hydrangeas, with their large leaves, can wilt suddenly.
Peonies and begonias are easily damaged by direct sun and dry air. Even hardy roses need regular watering and a bit of shade during intense heat.
Newly planted bedding flowers, still developing their root systems, are at the highest risk and will need the most consistent care.
