Hello to all our gardening friends! How are you and your plants coping with the heatwave?

These summer temperatures can turn gardening into a challenge, but with over 50 years helping gardens flourish here on the sunny slopes of the Clee Hill, we’ve found some tried and tested ways to keep your plants happy and your green patch looking its best – no matter how hot it gets!

1. Water Early (Or Late)

Cool mornings & evenings are your garden’s favourite time of day—water then to ensure every drop goes where it’s needed most. This ensures that the moisture stays in the ground for as long as possible before being evaporated.

2. The Perfect Spray

Use a rose or shower setting on your hose – this will help spread the water evenly and save washing soil away from the roots of the plants.

3. Layer On The Mulch

Think of mulch as soil’s sunscreen! Mulching your areas with bark near will help to lock in moisture and keep the soil cooler in extreme heat.

4. Less Is Best

Check your plants need water before wasting water!! Overwatering can cause more harm than good! The best way to check is to stick your finger around 5cm into the soil. If its damp then leave watering it for a day. If its dry then follow the above steps to give you maximum watering benefits.

5. Pick The Best Neighbour

Gone away for the weekend and left your neighbour in charge? Now your plants look like dried up lettuce left in the sun?  To resurrect your abandoned plants, nurture them little and often with water to get the soil back damp – they will need several waterings. Cut off any dead leaves or heads – don’t worry they will regrow. With more signs of life, simply water as you normally do to ensure a full recovery. Maybe ask your other neighbour next time😆