Managing Gardens During Hot Weather
Gardens can become quite challenging to maintain during periods of intense heat. Even in shaded areas, the discomfort caused by high temperatures can make it difficult for both people and plants to enjoy the space. Watering becomes a necessary but often overwhelming task, especially with the awareness of water scarcity and restrictions like hosepipe bans in certain regions. The key is to water wisely, ensuring that plants remain healthy without unnecessarily increasing water bills.
Greenhouses: A Special Challenge
Greenhouses are particularly tough to manage during the summer months. Temperatures inside these structures can soar well above 40°C, making it hard for even resilient plants to thrive. If possible, move potted plants out of the greenhouse into a shaded area of the garden to prevent them from drying out. If they must stay inside, water them early in the morning to saturate the roots, providing hydration for the day ahead. A second watering in the early evening can help reinvigorate the plants, as temperatures remain high. However, avoid watering tomatoes in the evening, as damp foliage at night can encourage blight. Fruiting crops like aubergines, tomatoes, and peppers benefit from consistent moisture levels, which help ensure better fruit development.
To reduce the heat inside the greenhouse, consider painting a shading product on the outside of the glass. This will decrease the amount of heat and light entering the structure, helping plants last longer between waterings.
Heat Stress and Plant Care
Plants can wilt due to heat stress, even if their roots are still moist. To check moisture levels, insert your finger into the root ball. On hot days, if some plants are wilting but the roots are still moist, they should recover when temperatures drop. Avoid overwatering if the root ball is already saturated, as this can cause additional stress and potentially harm the plant.
Grouping Pots for Efficiency
Grouping pots together can improve watering efficiency, as the increased humidity helps plants withstand harsh conditions. During extreme heat, move pots away from sunny spots to shaded areas to help them survive. After the heat subsides, return them to their original positions. Acers in pots are especially vulnerable, suffering from both sun scorch and dry winds, as well as high temperatures in the pot. These plants should be placed in a sheltered, shady spot and kept from drying out during the summer.
Grouping plants with similar water needs can also streamline your watering routine, preventing overwatering or under-watering. For example, succulents and Mediterranean herbs require less water than bedding plants. Top-dressing containers with a layer of bark or gravel several centimeters deep can slow evaporation, but be sure to water thoroughly before applying the mulch. For large containers that cannot be moved, draping an old net curtain or horticultural fleece over the plant can filter light and reduce evaporation.
Effective Watering Techniques
When it comes to watering, focus on the roots rather than the leaves. A watering can allows for precise control of the amount of water applied. Using a hosepipe can save time, but it’s harder to measure how much water is being given. A simple trick is to hold the hosepipe over a bucket for the same amount of time you water the plant. This will show exactly how much water is being used, which may be more than expected. Most of this water drains out of the pot, so consider placing containers in saucers to create a reservoir that plants can use during hot spells.
Automated Irrigation Systems
Irrigation systems range from simple DIY setups to advanced automated solutions. Drip irrigation is one of the most efficient methods, delivering water directly to the roots with minimal waste. Other options include soaker hoses on timers or app-controlled systems. While these systems offer convenience, they vary in complexity and cost. A budget-friendly solution I discovered was a solar-powered system using a recycled water bottle from an office dispenser, which worked effectively for under £50.
Lawns in Hot Weather
Maintaining lawns during prolonged hot and dry periods is extremely challenging. Tougher grasses may recover, but finer lawns could suffer. Weeds, with their deeper roots, tend to be more resilient, making the lawn look untidy. Mowing the tops off weeds with a higher blade setting can help keep the lawn looking neat. Scarifying in the autumn can remove thatch and promote healthier turf. Alternatively, consider allowing some areas to grow longer for a more natural look.
Well-kept lawns are becoming increasingly difficult to justify in such conditions. While it may not be what everyone wants to hear, it’s a reality that many gardeners must face.