Alan Titchmarsh has issued a warning to gardeners about a common watering mistake that could harm plants this spring. The gardening expert and TV presenter highlighted that many people incorrectly use sprinkler hoses, which can lead to water evaporating before reaching the roots.
In a TikTok video for his series Gardening with Alan Titchmarsh, he demonstrated the error by holding a sprinkler hose high above a plant, directing water onto the leaves and flowers. He explained: 'This is how not to water. You go out there on a sunny day and you think I'll give the plants a really good soak. But, you're not giving them a really good soak. You're just putting water on the leaves and flowers, and it's going to evaporate from the leaves and flowers before it goes where it's needed.'
Titchmarsh urged gardeners to place the hose at the base of the plant instead, ensuring the roots receive moisture. He added that it is acceptable if some foliage gets wet, as long as the primary focus is on watering the soil around the roots.
Separately, Titchmarsh offered advice on pruning roses, noting that shrub roses should not be cut down to knee height like bush roses. Instead, he recommended tipping them back and thinning the framework, removing flimsy branches and overcrowded areas. After pruning, he suggested feeding the plant with blood, fish and bone to prepare it for summer.
