With UK summers getting hotter, gardens are under increasing pressure during heatwaves. Whether you're caring for new turf, established borders, or potted plants, here’s how to protect your garden during extreme heat.

Water Smart, Not Often

Water early in the morning or evening to avoid evaporation. Focus on soaking the soil at the base of plants every 2–3 days, rather than daily surface watering.

Lawn Care

Don’t panic if your lawn turns brown, it's going dormant, not dying. Avoid mowing too short; longer grass retains more moisture and shades the soil. Skip fertilising during hot spells, as it can scorch your lawn.

Shade and Protect Plants

Move pots into shade where possible. Use garden fleece, parasols, or even old sheets to protect vulnerable plants. Grouping containers together also helps reduce moisture loss.

Mulch and Soil Health

Apply a layer of mulch (bark, compost, or straw) around plants to lock in moisture and regulate soil temperature. Healthy soil means better drought resilience, so keep it covered and enriched.

Final Tips

Avoid pruning or transplanting during heatwaves. Remove deadheads to help plants conserve energy and recover. And remember: some plants wilt temporarily in the sun but bounce back overnight — don’t overwater unless they stay droopy by morning.

With just a few tweaks, you can help your garden thrive.