Plants and flowers can thrive despite the extreme heat and hosepipe ban if gardeners use self-watering globes, a product that slowly releases water based on soil dryness and could also reduce water bills.
Gardener's Solution to Heatwave Woes
Many people are struggling to keep their plants healthy after multiple heatwaves and an ongoing hosepipe ban. DIY and gardening enthusiast Olivia shared her solution on TikTok: self-watering globes that can be added to plant pots.
In her video, Olivia showcased her 'Water Buddy' balls in action, explaining: "Let me show you the balls in my garden. These are the Water Buddies and I absolutely love them - I've got them mixed between two sizes spread across my front and back garden."
How Self-Watering Globes Work
Olivia described the mechanism: "You fill them up with water and screw the lid on and they slowly release water depending on how dry or wet the soil is. I have these smaller balls in my pot plants - it's because I do notice they dry out quicker. They're also great for hanging baskets as well."
On water longevity, she noted: "I've noticed the smaller ones last about a week when it's not as hot, but during the recent heatwave I did notice I was filling them up every three to four days just because of how hot it was."
Impact on Gardens and Water Bills
Olivia highlighted the benefits: "This is one of the bigger ones - it's 1.5 litres that I use for my hydrangeas. I have not watered my front garden for three to four days now. I actually can't remember the last time."
She added, "Hydrangea is still very happy and if anyone has these in their garden, you know how dramatic they are if they get too dry. We also have one in the shade that I was checking up on, but this hasn't gone down as much."
The product, 'Water Buddy - pack of three', is available from Richard Jackson Garden for under £30, with alternatives online and in garden centres. Olivia concluded: "They are genuinely worth investing in - and for a pack of three for less than £30, not only does it keep your plants happy but also cuts down on your water bill."
