Caring for gardens during summer can be challenging, with hotter days and warmer nights often leading to dry soil as well as leaf scorch and wilting.
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Paul English of Nylex has some helpful tips to prepare, maintain and hydrate your greenery.
Water wisely and frequently
"When temperatures reach between 30 and 35 degrees, that's when you need to step-up watering, ideally twice per day, once in the morning and again in the late afternoon," Paul said.
"It's a myth that you can't water in direct sun, if your plants are thirsty - water them, just direct the spray towards the soil rather than the leaves, which can be more vulnerable to scorching in extreme heat."
Paul said it's crucial to keep consistent moisture in the soil during a hot, dry spell, as plants will uptake more water during that time.
Pots need extra attention too, as they hold less soil and water and dry out much faster, especially when they're in full sun.
"Having the right equipment will make watering more enjoyable.
"A quality hose reel that extends and retracts easily makes watering easier, allowing you to get around the garden and pack-up without fuss," Paul said.
Watering effectively is key
While drip irrigation systems are excellent for controlled watering, during hotter spells it's still important to hand water as well, to ensure moisture reaches deep into the soil.
"A well-hydrated garden that's also well fed will reward you with better bud performance and overall growth.
"Water deeply towards the roots, rather than over the leaves as you'll want the water to penetrate the soil and not just sit on the surface," Paul said.
"Having the right attachment on your hose can make all the difference to watering.
"Choose a nozzle with an ergonomic trigger so it's comfortable to use over longer periods.
"A rain-style function that provides a gentle soaking effect is ideal, as jet settings can displace mulch and soil, leaving pitting in garden beds," Paul said.
Choose the right mulch.
Retaining moisture is key to keeping gardens healthy and hydrated during hot weather. Paul said mulch acts as a protective barrier, helping to slow water evaporation while also shielding soil from heavy downpours.
"Select the right mulch for your plants. For ornamental gardens, choose an organic mulch which breaks down over time to feed the soil and support healthy growth. For native gardens, stick to a single layer of leaf or bark mulch," Paul said.
How to spot the signs of heat stress
Common signs of heat stress include wilting leaves, dry or brittle lawns and foliage starting to curl at the edges. Keep in mind that some plants don't show visible stress until they're already severely dehydrated.
Regularly check soil moisture by feeling just below the surface, if it's dry past the root zone, it's time to water. The soil should feel cool and slightly damp around the roots, not dusty or hard.
