Summer is here! The UK has seen soaring temperatures over the last week, and the hot weather looks set to continue for a while. Here at Genesis Gardens, we know that heatwaves and hot weather can be tough on gardens. But with a little care and attention, you can help your plants survive – and even thrive – in the heat.
Here are our top tips on how to look after your garden in a heatwave:
Watering
- Water your plants regularly. The most important thing you can do for your plants in a heatwave is to water them regularly. However, watering them at the right time of day is important. Watering in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak can stress plants out, as the water evaporates before it can be absorbed. Instead, water your plants in the early morning or evening, when the sun is not as strong and the temperature is lower.
- Water deeply. When you do water your plants, make sure to water them deeply. This means watering until the water has soaked down to the roots. Shallow watering will only wet the surface of the soil, and the roots will not be able to get the moisture they need.
- Avoid using a hosepipe. If you can, avoid using a hose to water your plants. Hoses can waste a lot of precious water, and they can also splash water on leaves, which can damage them. Instead, use a watering can and consider installing water butts so you can reuse rainwater in future.
Caring for your plants
- Mulch around your plants. Mulch helps to conserve moisture in the soil, so it’s a great way to help your plants stay hydrated during a heatwave. You can use any type of organic mulch, such as bark, compost, or wood chips. Did you know you can even use fallen leaves in autumn to create mulch? Check out our blog Autumn Leaves: The Four Best Ways To Use Fallen or Dead Leaves In Your Garden This Autumn to learn how!
- Move tender plants to a shady spot. If you have any tender plants that are not used to hot weather, you may want to move them to a shady spot during a heatwave. This will help to protect them from the hot sun and keep them from wilting, particularly if they are in containers or pots.
- Plant drought-resistant plants. If you are making changes to your garden, or choosing new plants, consider planting drought-resistant plants. These plants are naturally resistant to hot weather and will require less water than other plants. This makes your garden easier to care for all year round, and of course, makes it easier when you go away on holiday!
- Be patient. It may take some time for your plants to adjust to the heat. Be patient and give them plenty of water as we’ve outlined above, and they should eventually start to thrive.
Abelia x grandiflora 
Ceanothus 
Mesembryanthemum 
Nigella damascena
More ways to care for your garden in a hot spell
Here are some additional helpful tips for looking after your garden in a heatwave:
- Check your plants regularly. Pay attention to your plants and check them regularly for signs of stress. If you see any leaves wilting or turning brown, water them immediately.
- Remove dead or dying leaves. Dead or dying leaves can attract pests and diseases, so it’s important to remove them as soon as possible.
- Avoid using fertiliser. Fertiliser can actually stress plants out in hot weather. If you do need to fertilise your plants, use a slow-release fertiliser, ideally organic.
- Enjoy your garden! Even though it’s hot, you can still enjoy your garden in a heatwave. Just be sure to take breaks in the shade and drink plenty of water. We find the early mornings and evenings are the perfect time to relax in the garden and enjoy the beautiful outdoor space.
So there you have it, some simple but effective tips to help you look after your garden in a heatwave or hot spell – or indeed through the summer. The Genesis Gardens team hope these tips help you keep your garden looking its best this summer and every summer!