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These days the weather seems so changeable and unpredictable, which can leave eco-friendly gardeners struggling to nurture their gardens, especially when the ground is parched. Sarah Smith, Kew gardener, is offering some handy tips for those hot scorching days to make sure your plants do not suffer in the heat of summer.

Firstly, and most importantly, make use of the resources you have:

• If the weather forecast in your area is accurate and rain is due, then delay watering and let nature run its course. Why waste something which is free, and couldn’t be easier to use: rain!

• Use water butts to collect rain water for times when water is at a premium.  Water butts serviced by downpipes can be fitted with diverters, so once the tank is full, the remaining water will go to the drain system as usual, or to other linked storage areas.

• Children’s paddling pools are a great way to keep the kids cool during a hot summer, but can also be bailed out and used on the garden.

Controlling water flow and using water where it is really needed can minimise the amount going to waste:

• Wetting the soil surface will encourage roots to grow upwards where they can be damaged by tools or the heat of the sun. Water at the base of your plant, and avoid the foliage in extremely hot conditions as some plants are susceptible to scorch.

• Use watering cans to spot water your plants.

• Trickle or seeps hoses are more water efficient than sprinklers. Though they can look unsightly, in densely planted boarder they are soon lost in the foliage. If worried about appearances then try disguising them with mulches.

• If you still decide to use a sprinkler, fit a timer so areas of the garden only receive what is required.

Tip: Most in need of water are germinating seeds, seedlings, and plants that are flowering or forming fruit.

More gardening tips to follow…                                 

Tips on green living…

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