As Britain faces a hotter summer, experts warn gardeners about the risks of improper watering during the heatwave. According to the Met Office, the chances of a hot summer in 2025 have doubled, prompting many gardeners to increase watering to protect their plants. However, specialists caution that watering at the wrong times can do more harm than good.
Plants often show signs of dehydration through drooping leaves, browning tissue, stunted growth, and reduced flower or fruit production. While watering is essential during dry spells, overwatering can suffocate plant roots and lead to problems like root rot, yellowing leaves, and fungal diseases.
Chris Cooper, a gardening expert from Hayter, advises gardeners to water their plants early in the morning or late in the evening. This helps prevent water from evaporating too quickly in the afternoon heat, ensuring that moisture reaches the roots. He also recommends focusing watering efforts at the base of plants and giving extra care to those in containers, pots, or hanging baskets, as these plants are more vulnerable to stress and damage.
Overwatering not only wastes water but can also block the plant’s ability to absorb oxygen, causing leaf scorch and, in severe cases, plant death. Additionally, warmer weather encourages rapid weed growth, which competes with garden plants for nutrients. Cooper suggests removing weeds promptly to make them easier to manage and recommends composting them to benefit the garden.
With temperatures expected to rise, gardeners are urged to balance their watering routines carefully to protect their plants without causing unintended harm.
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