Gardeners are being urged to take immediate action to protect their plants as forecasts suggest a heatwave could push temperatures to 41C in early July, potentially breaking the UK record of 40.3C set in July 2022.
Jude Allen, Head Grower at Wild Farm in Hertfordshire, has shared essential advice on safeguarding gardens during extreme heat. The key step is to move plants on patios and any small plants or seedlings in greenhouses or polytunnels into shaded areas without delay.
How to Prepare Plants and Gardens for Hot Weather
To give plants the best chance of survival, relocate young plants away from direct sunlight into shaded corners. Allen also recommends creating shade using shade cloth or improvised materials like a bed sheet, ensuring adequate airflow and that the covering does not touch the plants directly.
Watering timing is critical: the optimum time is early morning, allowing plants to absorb moisture before temperatures peak. If mornings are too busy, water in the evening, but never during the hottest part of the day when water evaporates quickly. Installing timers on watering systems can help maintain consistent hydration.
Mulching and Other Tips
Allen advises mulching plants with grass clippings, straw, or homemade compost to prevent soil moisture loss. However, she warns against using woodchips, as they can strip nitrogen from the soil. These steps, she says, can significantly improve plant survival during extreme heat.
