Expert tips for protecting your garden during extreme heat and water restrictions. Learn watering techniques, mulching, shading, and long-term solutions from luxury garden designer Jo McGarry.
The UK has faced multiple heatwaves since May, with forecasts indicating another may be imminent. Soaring temperatures and dry conditions have triggered hosepipe ban s in many regions, leaving gardeners concerned about maintaining their outdoor spaces.
However, a heatwave combined with a hosepipe ban does not necessarily mean inevitable damage to your garden. The focus should shift to prioritising plant health, conserving moisture, and using water efficiently. Jo McGarry, a luxury garden design expert at Caragh Nurseries, shared her expert advice with the Daily Mail on protecting plants and preserving garden aesthetics during hot, dry spells.
Watering Wisely During Restrictions Even when a hosepipe ban is in effect, using a watering can is typically still permitted, though it's advisable to verify specific local regulations with your water provider. McGarry recommends deep watering at the base of plants early in the morning, rather than frequent light sprinkling. This technique promotes deeper root growth, where soil moisture persists longer. Priority should be given to recently planted specimens, shallow-rooted species, and moisture-loving plants like hydrangeas and ferns.
Established shrubs and trees generally withstand short dry periods more effectively. She also suggests that before watering container plants, one should check the compost a few centimetres below the surface; if dry, provide a slow, thorough soak. Container plants require extra attention as pots dry out faster than garden beds. Check them morning and evening, group pots together to create a humid microclimate, and use saucers to capture excess runoff.
Mulching and Shade Strategies Applying a 5-7 centimetre layer of mulch-such as bark, compost, straw, grass clippings, or leaf mold-helps keep soil cool, reduces evaporation, and suppresses weeds, thereby decreasing watering frequency. Mulch is especially beneficial around vegetable plants. For vulnerable young plants and vegetables, moving pots and hanging baskets to shadier locations during peak afternoon sun can reduce stress. Shade netting can also shield delicate plants and vegetable beds from intense sunlight.
Long-Term Solutions and Stress Reduction Installing a water butt is a valuable long-term investment, allowing rainwater collection for use during droughts. Enhancing soil with compost or organic matter improves water retention, further conserving moisture. Avoid heavy pruning, planting, replanting, and fertilising during extreme heat, as these actions stimulate growth that demands more water and energy. Do not panic if your lawn turns brown; it is often dormant rather than dead and will recover with cooler, wetter weather.
Refrain from mowing dry, brittle grass; if necessary, raise mower blades and cut no more than one-third of the blade length to shade the soil. Wait until temperatures drop or rain returns before applying fertiliser, and always water the soil before feeding
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