Tina Worboys | July 23, 2025
Firstly, we can be strategic, not generous with the water we use. It’s about how and when, not just how much we water. Watering at the roots only and not from a height is far better for the plant and means the moisture goes directly where it’s needed. Water deeply, not daily. This will encourage the plant to grow deep roots ultimately making a strong, viable plant.
As with most things timings is everything. Early mornings or late evenings, when the day is at its coolest, is best (for you and the garden) and will stop the loss of water to evaporation. If time is limited focus on just the pots, young plants or anything newly planted.
Mulch is a gardener’s best friend when the sun starts beating. Not only does it suppress the weeds (many of which are frustratingly happy to flourish in this weather) it regulates the soil temperature and crucially locks in moisture. A layer of mulch now could saves litres of water (and your back) later.
If you have a lawn, just relax and let it go brown. It’s what they do, it’s OK! They generally bounce back with the first signs of rain and will be once again lush and green before you know it. Watering lawns is a huge waste of water and a thankless task. A lush green lawn when all others are like straw isn’t going to gain you any eco credits either!
Harvesting water can invite all manner of creative solutions. From simple shop bought water butts to galvanised farm troughs and tanks which add vintage textures to the garden, any worthy container can make a practical solution for capturing rain water. Diverting downpipes can direct water where you want it most and will avoid overwhelming the drains come the inevitable winter deluge. Grey water from the kitchen, shower or laundry is perfect poured at the roots of plants and trees (lawns if you really can’t cope with the straw). Use it immediately as it doesn’t store well due to the potential bacterial growth.
Of course, one of the best solutions is to plant with all this in mind. Drought tolerant or climate-resilient planting is now rightly one of the biggest stories in horticulture. Not only choosing species that can tolerate or even flourish in these extremes but addressing what we are planting into as well. Gravel gardens, planting into sand or even rubble can bring exciting results, a haven for wildlife and a sustainable space which works for you and the planet.
It’s hard to see our gardens, all our hard work and love, sit there parched and struggling. But plants are resilient and so are we. Small shifts in how we water today and plan for tomorrow can ensure our gardens keep thriving and bringing us joy whatever the weather throw at us.
The whole process has made me realise how much I love working with flowers and nature in this way, it’s creative, seasonal, fast-paced, full of emotion, and incredibly rewarding.
If you would like help creating a resilient garden or tweaking what exists to be more hardy, please do get in touch. I would love to help you create something beautiful which can handle everything the weather can throw at it.
