Five essential tips for watering wisely in hot weather
Midsummer is a fine time in the garden, with everything bursting with colour. But British summer can throw a lot of weather at a garden, from sudden rainstorms to days of dry heat. When a hot spell arrives, gardens can go from flourishing to flagging quickly, and while we're all thinking about staying cool and keeping hydrated, plants need the same consideration.
A few sensible steps will keep your plants healthy through the heat. Here are our tried-and-tested tips for helping your garden through a hot spell.
1. Time it right
Water in the evening or very early morning, when temperatures are cooler and less water is lost to evaporation. More of what you pour reaches the roots, and less evaporates in the heat of the day.
If plants are flagging during the day, move them into the shade before watering if you can, or water strictly at the base. Many gardeners believe that water sitting on foliage in strong sun can contribute to leaf scorch.
2. Water long and deep
Instead of quick sprinkles, give your plants a proper drink. Dry soil can resist water at first, so it may run off or pool rather than soak in. Start with a gentle application to wet the surface, give it a moment to absorb, then return for a second soaking. Repeat until the water has penetrated down to the roots.
The key is patience – water until you see it pooling slightly, then move on and come back for a second or third round.
The Hockley Heritage suits this well – its traditional spout delivers a direct, high-flow pour for established plants and open beds.
3. Mulch is your friend
After a good watering, spreading a layer of mulch around your plants holds moisture in the soil and shields it from the sun. It works around the clock, and you can do it for pots too.
Organic mulches like bark chips, straw, or compost work well and gradually improve your soil as they break down. Aim for a decent layer, keeping it a few centimetres away from plant stems to allow air circulation.
4. Show extra love to water lovers
Pay special attention to your thirstiest plants. Hydrangeas, hostas, and other moisture-loving plants will need more frequent watering during hot spells, and they'll be the first to show distress when water is scarce.
Watch for the telltale signs: drooping leaves, crispy leaf edges, or flowers that fade quickly. These are cues that more frequent watering is needed.
The Bearwood Brook Two Gallon carries more water per fill, meaning fewer trips to the tap when you're making the rounds of your thirstiest plants.
5. Don't forget your pots
Container plants dry out much faster than garden beds because the volume of potting mix is finite and exposed on several sides. Check them morning and evening during a hot spell. The smaller the pot, the more often it will need watering – hanging baskets, with their small soil volume, are particularly thirsty.
A good trick is the finger test: push your finger about 2cm into the potting mix. If it's dry, it's time to water. During a heatwave, you may find yourself watering pots twice a day.
The Warley Fall's long-reach spout places the outlet further from the body, so you can water pots and hanging baskets without stretching or leaning in.
Keep your garden going this summer
With the right approach, your garden can come through the summer heat in good shape. Consistent care during hot spells makes the difference, and it's a good reason to be out in the garden. Our watering cans are made to do this work reliably, year after year.
