With the UK experiencing prolonged hot weather, many gardeners may think it's pointless to plant anything new. However, gardening expert Adam Kirtland, known as View From The Potting Bench on social media, has identified three flowering plants that not only survive but thrive in heat without requiring watering.
In a TikTok video, Kirtland advised: "You can get them in a garden centre right now. The sun really is shining in our gardens at the moment, but with that sun comes a lot of watering. But if you want to stop watering and start enjoying your plants - get these three!"
Lavender: The Classic Choice
Kirtland began with what he called an "absolute classic" and a "must-have" in any garden. "We all know about lavender, but this is one plant we all need," he explained. Lavender is equally impressive in small or large pots initially and can later be transferred to a flowerbed. "It likes a dry, free-draining compost and loves full sun," he added.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) also recommends lavender for summer gardens. Their guidance states: "The shrubs that flower at this time are numerous and varied... Many are sun-lovers from warmer climes like cistus and lavender."
Echinacea: Pollinator-Friendly Perennial
Next on Kirtland's list is echinacea, also known as coneflower. "It comes in a wide range of colours," he said, noting he recently chose a pink variety. Echinacea is adored by pollinators "from bud to flower to dried seed head." Kirtland added: "This is a flower that looks amazing all year round."
This drought-tolerant plant is a favourite among bees and butterflies, making it both low-maintenance and ecologically beneficial.
Agapanthus: The Showstopper
Kirtland saved "the best for last" - the "beautiful" agapanthus. "Whether you have a small garden or sprawling estate, this is plant for you," he declared. He revealed a "trick" for growing agapanthus: plant several rather than just one. "Then repeat it throughout your garden," he advised. "It has amazing root systems, which means it is perfect for dividing and splitting in your garden."
Agapanthus produces striking blue or white flowers and is known for its resilience in dry conditions.
Kirtland concluded that gardeners are not limited to these three options: "Garden centres are full of flowers like this to keep your garden bursting with colour all summer long."
The RHS also notes that hydrangeas are popular summer-flowering shrubs, with bloom colour indicating soil pH - blue for acidic, pink for alkaline. However, hydrangeas typically require more water than the three plants highlighted.
