health
‘Lawns don’t need watering!’ How to garden in a heatwave, from recycling bathwater to making the most of shade
Whether you have a few pots on a balcony or an expanse of greenery, here’s how to help everything thrive when the mercury spikes
TL;DR
- Water in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation and allow water to soak into cooler soil.
- Use a watering can instead of a hose to better control water usage and ensure plants receive adequate moisture.
- Water deeply and less frequently to encourage plants to develop deeper root systems.
- Collect rainwater or use greywater from washing vegetables or showering for watering.
- Use moisture-retaining compost and apply mulch (like bark or compost) to keep soil cool and retain moisture.
- Choose heat-tolerant plants, such as Mediterranean varieties, that require less water once established.
- For lawns, raise the cutting height to allow grass to develop deeper roots and shade the soil.
- Ponds are beneficial for wildlife and can be topped up with stored rainwater.
- Move houseplants to shadier spots and consider moving them outdoors for the summer.
- Create shade for patios and plants using climbers or screening materials.