Heatwave gardening

With the UK currently experiencing its hottest July for many many years there is increased pressure on our gardens to suvive the extreme temperatures that have reached up to 33c in some areas of UK.

Lawns are really struggling in the exceptionally dry weather but it is important to remember that they will survive and come back looking green once rain eventually arrives. Please do not be tempted to waste water by using a sprinkler just to keep your green looking typically British.

Plants in containers suffer most in a hot spell, especially hanging baskets, so target them first. Water daily; twice daily for baskets – early morning and late evening to limit evaporation. Use “grey” water such as cooled washing-up water on ornamental plants; or add a handful of ice cubes to the surface of the soil for a slow-release watering. Mulch the surface of pots with stones or bark.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/gardening-blog/2013/jul/15/dont-let-heat-get-to-garden?INTCMP=SRCH

I have created an outside sitting room using pots filled with tropical plants and flowering lilies to compliment the current exotic temperatures in the UK. This is a great way to create interest and structure even on a small patio. Try using large leaved bananas which grow very quickly if they are regularly watered and will add a truly tropical feel to any garden.

http://www.exoticplantsonline.co.uk/buy-banana-plants-online-find-cheap-banana-plants-to-buy-today/

 

 

 

 

 

 

This post was written by:

- who has written 872 posts on My Climate Change Garden.

I am not an experienced gardener - more of an enthusiastic amateur who learns by trial and error and who is keen to "manage" the effects of shifting weather patterns on my garden. Writing this blog is my passion and it has evolved over 12 years to inspire engagement with climate change outside our back doors, in our personal gardens and green spaces. My mission is to fertilise and expand this platform to grow a community of global gardeners communicating about the effects of climate change on our plants and exploring how each individual can make small changes in our lives to become more sustainable. The future of our gardens and #OurPlanet is in our hands - please plant your own seeds for our collective sustainable future.

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