Garden Experts Reveal the Right Way to Water During a Heatwave
With the UK basking in sunshine, gardeners are being urged to plan ahead and make sure their outside space stays well-watered.
The experts at GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have put together nine top tips for helping gardeners water the right way to keep gardens looking lush and green during the sunny spell.
They suggest making sure the soil is in top condition and mulching around flower beds, pots and hanging baskets to retain moisture.
Other advice includes using grey water to maintain the space and using a watering can rather than a hose to restrict the amount of water used.
A spokesperson for GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk said: “The forecast for the next few weeks is looking like back to back sunshine and our gardens will need extra attention to ensure plants stay well watered and thriving.
“If the sunny spell is prolonged and we all get the warm summer we want, it’s worth following some of our advice on how to keep your garden looking good and well watered now and in the future.
“Tips include installing a water butt, planting drought resistant plants and being selective about the plants you water.”
Here is GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk’s tips for keeping your garden looking good during the sunny weather:
Look after your soil
If your soil is in top condition, then it won’t need as much watering. Try adding natural fertilisers to the soil to improve its structure. This will help retain moisture. Pull out any weeds too – you don’t want the water you do put on the garden to help the weeds grow and not the plants.
Mulching flower beds
Try laying mulch around flower beds and in hanging baskets. This will trap moisture and prevent it evaporating during sunny spells.
Water at the right time
Water the garden first thing in the morning and in the evening when it’s cooler and the sun has set. It will reduce the amount of evaporation.
Plant drought resistant plants
Some plants need less water than others, so if you’re serious about saving water, opt for those that require very little.
Invest in a water butt
Divert a drainpipe into a water butt and start collecting. By the warmer months you’ll have plenty of water ready to use in the garden.
Grey water
Bath water and washing up water can both be used in the garden, where they contain well-diluted and biodegradable soaps. Just avoid any water containing bleach, disinfectant or strong cleaners. This is a great way to save water in the short term, not a diet your plants should be regularly fed. Just don’t use this on edible plants. Check your washing up liquid label to check if it is grey water safe, and let it cool before watering.
Use a watering can
Opt for a watering can rather than a hose to water the garden. If you do use a hose, use a trigger to closely control the flow.
Be selective
Not all plants need the same amount of water. Fruit and veg are worth watering regularly. It’s also worth prioritising containers, any new plants and hanging baskets. Grass is really resilient and even if it turns brown, will grow back lush and green.
