Hydrangeas are moisture-loving plants with shallow root systems, so watering them in summer is crucial to their survival. Even so, one common mistake gardeners make is watering them daily, which can actually cause significant harm.

These shrubs often droop on scorching days due to heat stress — even when their soil isn't dry — leading many gardeners to overwater and subsequently waterlog the roots. Britain's changeable summers make it equally easy to underwater hydrangeas if you're not monitoring them carefully, as they require substantial moisture from soil for the flowers to stay healthy and fluffy.

Michael Jacobson, a specialist from French Florist, explained how to make hydrangea watering straightforward.

Simply examine them during evening hours, said the gardening expert.

He explained: "When hydrangeas are running low on moisture their leaves will noticeably droop. Watering them well can reverse this appearance, even as quickly as a few hours later.

"Hydrangea leaves may also curl to protect themselves in high temperatures, so it's worth waiting until the evening when it's cooler to see if the leaves have unfurled before watering."

Should a hydrangea appear droopy or wilted during cooler evening temperatures, then irrigation is required, which explains why numerous gardeners postpone their plant inspection until sunset.

However, watering hydrangeas in the evening is generally not advisable as this is when slugs are most active and the added moisture can attract more of these pests to your garden.

Instead, inspect your hydrangeas in the evening but hold off on watering them until morning. This provides them with the necessary hydration to withstand the day's heat.

Hydrangeas' soil tends to lose a significant amount of moisture due to evaporation in the summer, but morning watering allows the water ample time to reach the roots before the afternoon heat peaks.

As they are more active in the morning, timely watering ensures the roots stay hydrated, resulting in a healthier plant that will bloom for longer this summer.

It's typically best to check if hydrangeas need watering every two to three days in summer. It's better to water them deeply and less frequently rather than a daily light sprinkle.

Always aim for the soil and avoiding getting water on the leaves or flowers of the hydrangea, as dampness can promote mould growth.

By checking on your hydrangeas every few nights and watering them the following day, you'll enjoy an abundance of robust blooms that remain spectacular despite the dry, hot weather.