Sue Pomeroy, an expert horticulturalist at Brightwater Holidays, has advised gardeners to water plants in the morning to prevent them from drying out during the UK heatwave. She stated: "Always water in the cool of the morning. Make sure you water at the roots, rather than just over the foliage, as the roots need water the most."
Avoid watering in full sun
Pomeroy warned against watering during the hottest part of the day, explaining that water droplets on leaves can scorch the plant. While evening watering is acceptable, it may attract pests. She noted that beginner gardeners often overwater foliage, water at the wrong time, or underestimate how quickly pots and raised beds dry out in extreme heat.
Protect soil with gravel
To protect plants during a heatwave, Pomeroy recommended creating a bed topped with around six inches of pea gravel. She said: "Remove the soil or compost from the roots of the plants you wish to grow... then plant them carefully into the gravel, pushing the gravel securely around the plants to hold them in place." The gravel helps keep the soil cool and moist, protecting roots from drying winds and intense sun.
Monitor for pests
Warmer temperatures can cause rapid surges in pests like greenfly. Pomeroy advised checking new shoots and delicate growth regularly. If greenfly appears, she suggested spraying affected plants with a few drops of washing-up liquid diluted in water, but only in the evening so the foliage dries by morning.
