As Brits bask in a mini heatwave this weekend, with temperatures reaching nearly 26°C, the focus on human safety shouldn’t overshadow the needs of garden plants, warns an expert.
While ensuring sun safety, hydration, and adequate protection for children and pets are priorities, garden maintenance often gets overlooked. However, neglecting plants during a heatwave can lead to disastrous consequences for garden blooms, according to Mark Lane, a presenter and gardening expert.
Lane emphasized that watering plants during the day, especially in hot weather, ranks among the “worst mistakes” for gardeners. “The best time is early in the morning when the outdoor temperature is cooler, between 5:00 and 9:00 am, resulting in less water lost to evaporation,” he advised. He further cautioned against nighttime watering, which can create conditions conducive to fungal growth, rot, and other issues that may lead to the demise of plants.
To tackle the current weather conditions, gardening experts at Power Sheds shared essential tips for plant care. First, they recommended relocating container plants to shaded areas to prevent rapid drying and potential damage from direct sunlight. Additionally, they cautioned against overwatering lawns, advising minimal watering once a week to maintain soil moisture and prevent scorching.
Adjusting mower blades to a higher setting can help grass stems provide maximum shade for the soil, while installing air vents and using UV-resistant varnish in summer houses can mitigate heat effects. Mulching around plants is also recommended to retain soil moisture, with options including dry grass clippings.
Lastly, choosing the right pots for plants is crucial for long-term hydration and garden health. Ensuring adequate pot selection can contribute significantly to maintaining hydration levels during hot weather.