Dry and warm weather in the summer is something we all hope for. Everyone wants to be able to get the Outback reclining chairs out of storage and soak up the sun. A lack of rain can be a problem for your garden though, so read on for some ways of tackling it.
Water with care
It will be more important than ever to water your plants during a dry summer, but doing so carefully will bring the best results. Watering during early morning or later in the evening will prevent it evaporating before it can get to the roots. Instead of constant watering, you should do it less often but more deeply. This will strengthen plant roots and enhance their resilience.
Work on the soil
Soil that is able to retain water will keep plants healthier during dry periods. Even if you have soil that drains very quickly, you can improve it by adding green manure, compost and organic matter.
Mulch is another great way to enhance soil moisture retention, so add a layer of around 5cm to your garden. Homemade compost, straw mulch or bark chippings will all do the trick.
Plant the right flowers
Planting flowers that are able to cope with lengthy dry spells will make your garden hardier. The best ones to choose are plants from the Mediterranean, such as sedum, rosemary and lavender. These do well in dry and warm weather, as that is what they are used to.
With some care and attention, your garden can survive a (hopefully!) long, hot summer.
