Gardeners across the UK are being advised to give extra attention to five specific plants this week as hot weather forecasts raise the risk of heat damage. According to experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk, rising temperatures can cause plants to grow faster, dry out more quickly, and become vulnerable to stunted growth or permanent harm if not properly cared for.
Hydrangeas Need Consistent Moisture
Hydrangeas, popular for their large, showy blooms, lose water rapidly through their expansive leaves, making them prone to wilting in the heat. The gardening pros recommend keeping the soil consistently moist throughout the summer. Applying mulch around the roots helps retain moisture and shields the plant during intense sunny spells.
Hanging Baskets Require Daily Watering
Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, highlighted that hanging baskets are especially vulnerable because their limited soil volume dries out quickly. He advised: “In periods of hot weather, water them daily and feed them every couple of weeks.” This extra care prevents the plants from becoming stressed and ensures they continue to thrive.
Tomato Plants Need Regular Feeding and Watering
Tomatoes grow rapidly in summer and demand plenty of water and nutrients. The experts recommend feeding them weekly and watering regularly. However, they caution that irregular watering or overwatering can lead to split fruit and poor flavour, so consistency is key.
Ferns Thrive in Cool, Damp Conditions
Many ferns naturally grow in cool, damp environments, so hot, dry summer weather can cause their leaves to brown quickly. Bonnett advises: “Focus on keeping the soil damp and provide the plant with shade, humidity and moisture.” Moving ferns to a shadier spot or misting them can help maintain their lush appearance.
Lavender Needs Care Despite Drought Tolerance
Although established lavender plants are fairly drought-tolerant, they can still suffer in extreme dry or wet conditions. Gardeners often assume they need little summer care, but Bonnett warns that overwatering or poor drainage can harm them. Ensuring good drainage and avoiding overwatering will keep lavenders healthy.
Bonnett emphasised the importance of daily checks during a heatwave: “Our gardens really thrive in summer and the warmer weather creates the best environment for plants to grow and flower. The summer months do come with more responsibility, especially during heatwaves. There are some plants that gardeners will want to keep a closer eye on, as they can be quickly affected at this time of year. Some will benefit from additional watering, feeding and others may need moving into the shade.”
