As the UK braces for a mini-heatwave with temperatures potentially reaching 30°C, gardeners are seeking ways to protect their plants from wilting. Experts have shared a "genius" ingredient that can be added to water to keep potted plants thriving.
Mushroom Water: A Natural Hydration Booster
Waine Delaney, from mushroom cultivation specialists Monotub, suggests that mushroom water could be the secret weapon to help plants flourish during scorching weather. The preparation is simple: take a handful of any edible mushrooms, chop them up, and leave them in a watering can for an entire day. After 24 hours, water the roots of outdoor plants or containers with the mushroom water after sunset.
Delaney explained: "Whether they are dry or fresh, mushrooms are natural sponges and are made up of 85-90% water." When placed in water, mushrooms act as a 'hydration pod', slowly releasing moisture into the soil and reducing evaporation during peak heat hours.
Beyond hydration, mushrooms are packed with nutrients like potassium, selenium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These elements seep into the water, creating a gentle tonic that replenishes minerals plants need during hot weather without the risk of damage from stronger fertilisers.
How Mushroom Water Improves Soil Health
Applying mushroom-infused water to the soil releases mycelium, a web of fungal strands that resemble roots. This encourages fungal activity, allowing the soil to hold water and making it easier for plants to absorb moisture. The natural presence of mushrooms in a garden generally signals healthy soil and decomposing organic material. Certain varieties, like wine caps, can help break down soil nutrients and prevent weed growth.
Even if the hot spell ends with a heavy downpour, container plants may not receive adequate water due to the "canopy" effect of foliage, which can redirect rainfall away from the soil.
The Tapping Technique to Avoid Overwatering
Simon, a horticulture expert from the Walking Talking Gardeners channel, shared a "genius" tip to prevent pot plants from drying out. He warns that overwatering can be highly damaging, leading to root rot, leaf discolouration, and stunted growth. Excessively saturated soil can also encourage harmful root mould and fungus.
Simon's technique involves adopting practices of traditional gardeners from the 19th and 20th centuries, when stone or terracotta pots were common. He explains: "You would be familiar with terracotta pots and the sound they make if they are dry. If you tap it with an appropriate stick, the pot will make a ringing sound. If it is fully watered, it would have a dull kind of thud to it." So by tapping a pot, you can tell if it requires watering or not.
