As Australia experiences a La Niña summer with ample rainfall, experts warn that scorching days are inevitable. Preparing your garden for extreme heat involves strategic watering, mulching, and plant selection.
Water plants the night before a predicted heatwave, ensuring deep root penetration, and repeat early the next morning. Dr Brett Summerell, Chief Botanist at the Royal Botanic Gardens, advises against the myth of midday watering: if plants are stressed, water the soil carefully to avoid leaf burn.
Mulch is essential to retain moisture. Use organic mulches like wood chips or straw, 20–75 mm thick. Lighter-coloured mulches reflect heat better than pebbles, which can become very hot.
Choose plants suited to dry climates, such as succulents, cacti, or Mediterranean species. Even drought-tolerant plants need regular watering to look their best. Edible crops may require watering more than once daily during heatwaves to prevent bitterness.
For potted plants, seal terracotta pots to reduce moisture loss, and choose light-coloured, sealed containers. Move pots to shade before heat strikes. Garden beds benefit from temporary shade structures, like umbrellas or shade cloth, to protect from intense afternoon sun.
Products like water crystals (pre-expanded and placed at the root zone) or leaf sprays such as Yates Drought Shield can provide additional protection. Apply these before heat arrives for best results.
