Keep plants thriving by watering at 1 time of day during the UK heatwave

Published: 2025-08-12 10:48:50 | Views: 8


With areas of the UK experiencing a heatwave, it becomes extra important to take care of the garden and plants. Plants will struggle more than they do in a regular, cooler climate that they have become acclimatised to.

Luckily, a gardening expert has shared his top tips on how to keep your garden safe throughout the hot weather, including the best time to water it. Calum Maddock, gardening expert at HomeHow.co.uk, said: “They [plants] will usually require much more frequent watering to keep moisture levels in the soil at an adequate level during the hot, dry spell.

“The best time to water your plants during a heatwave is in the early morning, while the temperatures are still relatively cool.

“This will ensure that the soil is able to fully absorb the water and send it down to the roots of the plant before the hot midday sun has a chance to evaporate it.”

Some plants, such as tomatoes, may even need hydrating twice a day during a heatwave, so it’s important to check the soil in the evening if you water in the morning.

It’s also important to check on container plants and hanging baskets regularly, as these will need more water than those in the ground.

To water effectively, water deeply and ensure that the hydration is directed at the plant's roots, not the leaves or flowers.

In addition to extra watering, the expert recommended moving vulnerable plants into a shaded area or indoors until the hot weather passes.

He said: “Obviously, this is not possible for ground plants, but it is perfect for those in a container. A shaded room or shed is ideal for the most vulnerable plants that need ultimate protection from the harsh sun.

“For ground plants that cannot be moved, mulching is a great solution. Applying a layer of mulch, such as compost or bark chips, around the base of your plants can help to retain moisture in the soil by shading it and preventing the water from evaporating.”

According to the expert, this extra step is super effective at keeping your plants healthy and hydrated.



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