The 1 Watering Mistake UK Gardeners Must Avoid In A Heatwave

Temperatures are expected to soar this weekend, the Met predicting highs exceeding 30°C.

For gardeners, that might mean your weekend plans are disrupted. For instance, you might want to consider moving your plant pots, skipping your Sunday mow, and watering first thing in the morning. 

But David Denyer, a flower and garden expert at Eflorist, says that where you water your plants might matter even more than when you do it. 

Don’t water the leaves

“I’d recommend watering early in the morning or evening when the soil can absorb it fully, rather than in the middle of the day when it will likely evaporate,” the expert said. 

But, he added, “When you do water your plants, try to avoid getting water on their leaves as it can cause scorching when the sun is out, especially on new growth.” 

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) says that leaving water droplets on leaves in bright sunlight might cause the scorching effects of the rays to be magnified. 

This is especially likely on “hairy” leaves, they add, as water is more likely to run off of “smooth” leaves – leaving less time for the sunlight to cause its damage. 

This summer’s heatwave may be tougher on your garden than pervious years, Denyer said, because of our unusually warm and dry spring. 

“Without consistent moisture early on, roots don’t grow as deep or strong, and that makes it harder for plants to cope when the weather suddenly turns very hot, like it has done this week.”

Which plants are most at risk?

Aside from the hairy/smooth leaf divide, the gardening pro says that you should consider when you planted your greenery, too.

“New bedding plants, perennials, and anything planted in the last few months are particularly vulnerable, as they haven’t had time to settle in,” he advised. 

But given this extreme heat, “Even established garden favourites like roses, hydrangeas, and delphiniums may show signs of stress, especially if the soil around them is already dry.” 

Potted plants and hanging baskets are especially at risk because they have shallow soil.