The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has shared a simple and affordable method to create shade in gardens during the UK's scorching summer heatwaves. For around £30, homeowners can use willow or bamboo screens suspended between posts to build a shaded area, offering relief from extreme temperatures.
RHS Recommends Pergola Screens for Shade
According to the RHS, a pergola—an East Asian tower structure—can serve as an ideal refuge from the heat. The charity suggests that these structures can make perfect shady spots for seating, especially in awkward garden corners. Pergolas can be constructed from wood or metal, with kits available for purchase or DIY builds.
The RHS stated: "Often seen in Mediterranean gardens, willow or bamboo screens can be suspended between posts to create a simple but effective shaded area. These roll-out mats are reasonably priced (around £30), or you could use materials from your own garden tied together for a more handcrafted look."
Planting Trees for Long-Term Shade and Green Infrastructure
Another method recommended by the RHS is planting more trees in gardens. This not only creates shade but also helps recover lost green infrastructure. According to RHS data, there are approximately 30 million domestic gardens in the UK. If every homeowner incorporated woodland pockets, the benefits would be massive.
Rachael Austin, designer of The Ruskin Mill Trust Artisan Woodland Craft Garden, said: "With heatwaves becoming the norm, we want to show people that woodland and tree shade is the perfect, accessible place to cool down. By mimicking these natural ecosystems at home, British gardeners can collectively pioneer a massive network of localised climate control."
Additional Tips for Beating the Heat
The UK has experienced seriously high temperatures this summer, with multiple heatwaves and extreme heat warnings issued nationwide. While regular sunshine is enjoyable, the heat can become unbearable even indoors. Creating shaded areas in gardens is an effective way to make homes better suited to hot weather.
The RHS advises that incorporating shade solutions can enhance outdoor comfort and contribute to local climate resilience. With simple, low-cost options like the £30 pergola screen, homeowners can enjoy their gardens even during peak heat.
