Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your garden. However, the heat can be damaging to your plants & keeping them healthy & thriving can be a challenge, especially when there is a hosepipe ban. Here are some easy tips to help you keep your plants hydrated & ensure that your garden remains a beautiful oasis throughout the summer.
Choose the right time to water your plants
One of the best ways to water your garden plants without violating the hosepipe ban is to use a watering can or a bucket. When picking the right time to water your plants, choose the cooler parts of the day – early morning or late afternoon. This will give your plants more time to absorb the water before the heat of the day sets in & the water is likely to evaporate.
Use mulch in your garden
Mulch is a fantastic way to reduce moisture loss & keep your garden plants hydrated for longer. Mulch is usually made from decaying leaves, bark, or compost, placed on top of your soil & provides your plants with essential nutrients & moisture. Mulch also helps to suppress weed growth, so your plants have fewer competitors for water.
If you want to save time and energy while keeping your garden plants hydrated during the hosepipe ban, consider installing a drip irrigation system. This is a system where your plants are watered through a network of pipes that deliver water directly to their roots. Drip irrigation systems ensure that water is used efficiently, while minimising water loss due to evaporation.
Another way to make sure your plants can withstand the summer heat is to choose heat-tolerant varieties. These are plants that naturally grow in hot climates such as succulents. Adding these plants to your garden ensures that you have a more resilient garden that can withstand dry, hot conditions.
During the hosepipe ban, it’s important to use water wisely. Avoid using water for non-essential purposes, such as washing your car or watering your lawn. Instead, use water only for critical tasks such as watering your garden plants, pets or personal hygiene. Small amounts of water applied according to need can make all the difference in the health of your plants.
Keeping your garden plants thriving during the hot summer months is a challenge that requires a little careful planning and some light maintenance. Remember to choose the right time to water your plants, use mulch, consider drip irrigation, opt for heat-tolerant varieties & use water wisely.