Gardeners across the UK are being urged to give extra attention to five specific plants as a heatwave is forecast for parts of Britain this week. Experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk warn that during hot spells, plants develop faster, are more prone to dehydration, and face increased risk of harm, which can lead to stunted growth or permanent damage if neglected.
Daily Checks Crucial During Heatwaves
Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, said: "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."
He recommends inspecting plants daily throughout the summer, particularly during heatwaves.
Five Plants Requiring Extra Care
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas look beautiful in summer but their large leaves lose water rapidly, causing them to droop in the heat. Gardeners should keep the soil consistently damp and apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect them from intense sun.
Hanging Baskets
Plants in hanging baskets need special attention because their limited soil volume dries out quickly. Chris said: "Any plants in hanging baskets will need extra attention as their small amount of soil means they dry out quickly. This means in periods of hot weather, water them daily and feed them every couple of weeks."
Tomato Plants
Tomatoes grow rapidly in summer and require ample water and nutrition. Feed them weekly and maintain regular watering. Inconsistent or excessive watering can cause cracked fruit and poor taste.
Ferns
Many ferns naturally grow in cool, damp conditions. Hot, dry summer weather can cause their leaves to brown quickly. The expert advises: "Focus on keeping the soil damp and provide the plant with shade, humidity and moisture."
Lavender
Lavenders are drought-resistant once established, which may lead gardeners to underestimate their summer needs. However, they struggle in extremely dry or waterlogged conditions. Avoid overwatering and ensure adequate drainage.
