When it comes to watering garden plants, there are some best practices we need to adopt during the summer and, as unpredictable as British weather can be, especially in the event of a heatwave or when experiencing prolonged warm to hot temperatures.
For a start, it's actually advised to water in the evening so that plants have enough time to drink up the water before the heat continues the next day. As gardeners make the most of spending time outside during the summer, Louise Golden, resident gardener at Dobbies Garden Centres, shares exactly how we should be watering your plants.
1. Avoid watering in the peak of sunshine and instead give plants a much-needed drink in the evening, so that the plants have time to drink up the water before the heat of the following day. Where possible, move potted plants into the shade for periods of the day.
2. Focus your watering on newly planted garden plants. Generally, established border plants should have a good root system that is able to reach moisture deeper in the ground, so best to focus your attention on new or shallow rooting plants which will be under greater stress.
3. Water directly at the base of plants, rather than over the top, to ensure the water gets to where it is needed.
4. You could stand container-grown plants on saucers of water and if it gets excessively hot, move container plants into the shade.
5. Get your watering can out and water thoroughly less frequently, rather than a little and often. For border plants, water well and then apply a thick mulch of organic matter to help retain the moisture in the soil.
And remember...
As temperatures rise, the absence of rain means parched plants, browning lawns and a struggle for wildlife to find food, shade and water to drink. You can help to conserve water during warmer weather by turning off garden sprinklers and avoid washing cars, says Louise.
You should also make the most of any rainfall by installing a water butt in your garden. ‘Installing a water butt will conserve rainwater, so you don’t have to use extra water from the garden hose or kitchen tap, helping to do your bit towards being more sustainable and saving money on water bills,’ she explains.
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The best garden furniture sets for your outdoor space
Blending function with form, this stylish set includes two rattan chairs, a matching rattan sofa and a glass-topped table. We love the hairpin legs and the grey cushions (not to mention the price!).
We're big fans of Dusk's affordable (and equally stylish) indoor furniture range, so we're, naturally, excited to see the brand has launched its first-ever outdoor sofa range. Available in natural or grey, the range has a variety of sofa sizes and accessories on offer.
This is the ultimate garden furniture set. With its textured cord finish and smoked glass table top, this set exudes style and comfort. It includes a three-seater and two-seater sofa, configured into a corner unit, as well as two smart stools – perfect for entertaining.
Impress your guests with a garden furniture set that comes complete with a fire pit table. This ultra-contemporary set can seat up to six people around a cosy fire pit – keeping them warm on those chillier evenings.
Add a little bit of luxury to your garden with Garden Trading's West Strand garden sofa set. Made from durable aluminium in a contemporary grey colourway, this chic set is giving us Ibiza poolside vibes!
This neutral outdoor corner sofa set would complement any contemporary or Scandinavian-inspired garden. Featuring two loveseats, a corner seat and a coffee table, you can arrange this set in a number of ways.
On offer at just £228, this chic outdoor dining set from Homebase is incredible value. It has a powder-coated steel frame and rattan edges for durability and effortless style.
Bring the comfort of your living room outside with this modern lounging set. The thick cushions mimic that of an indoor sofa, with the added feature of it being weatherproof. The modular design means you can position it with a left or right-facing corner.
Beach Teak Wood Garden Dining Table and 6 Graphite Butterfly Armchairs
This outdoor dining table and chair set is oozing with contemporary style. Featuring an industrial style table and six black aluminium chairs, this set is ideal for creating a cool, urban jungle aesthetic in your garden.
Relax and soak up the sun with this luxe garden day bed. With a sleek grey aluminium finish, it includes one sofa with a canopy and a pouffe.
Kit out your patio for all the family with this lovely outdoor set. With a glass table top, four chairs and four stools all neatly tucked under the table, it won't clutter your outdoor space either.
Who said stylish outdoor furniture was just for adults? Your little ones can relax in style with this charming wooden garden furniture set from KidKraft. It comes with striped cushions and a matching adjustable umbrella that offers shady relief from the summer sun.
Looking to kick back and relax in your garden? This hand-woven, rattan effect mini corner sofa set comes with a cushion-top table that doubles as a footrest.
This stylish daybed makes the perfect outdoor spot to snuggle up with a book. Crafted from durable PE rattan, it comes with a showerproof extendable canopy so you can avoid getting wet during unexpected rain showers. At just under £245, we think it's a fab price for such a roomy piece of furniture.
Serving up your signature summer cocktail? Don't let the party begin without snapping up this fun tiki bar set from Amazon. The set includes two stools and a large shelf to store all of your favourite drinks.
Add a touch of heritage charm to your garden with the Winchester outdoor dining set. Not only will the deep-filled cushions provide ultimate comfort, but the integrated ice bucket will serve as a stylish and practical addition to keep your drinks cool.
Bring some fun into your garden with this statement egg garden furniture set from Wayfair. With a striking yet compact egg design and sleek metal legs, it's great for small spaces.
