The fourth heatwave of the summer means that many Brits will be looking forward to spending time out in their gardens – but there are some things to consider
UK households are being warned not to mow their lawns during this week’s heatwave. The fourth scorching spell of the summer has many Brits eager to enjoy their gardens but there’s a reason why you should hold off from cutting your grass.
Keen gardeners are prepping their outdoor spaces for hosting loved ones and relaxing in the sun, but one expert has shared advice on how to keep gardens safe and cool in the hot UK weather.
Gardening guru Calum Maddock from HomeHow.co.uk has shared tips on how to shield your garden from heatwave harm this week – including not trimming your grass too short. It comes as drivers warned to remove four items from car as UK heatwave hits 33C.
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“As much as we may wish to get out and enjoy the sun during a heatwave, safety must always be paramount. By following the tips we have explored, you can ensure that you, your family, your pets, and your plants stay cool and healthy all summer long.”
Avoid cutting your grass
During a heatwave, lawn care becomes even more crucial if you have grass in your garden. “Heat can be very damaging to the health of your lawn, and ensuring that it is properly looked after during periods of extreme temperatures will help its longevity throughout the year,” Calum says.
“Despite the temptation to cut your grass and keep it looking pristine for entertaining family and friends outdoors during the hot weather, you should avoid cutting it too short.
“The longer the grass is, the more it will protect itself from the sun and retain moisture in the roots, and in addition to this, it will be cooler to walk on. Ensure your lawn receives plenty of water to keep it thriving.”
Keep your plants hydrated
It’s also important to keep your plants hydrated, reports the Manchester Evening News. “During a heatwave, your plants will struggle much more than they do in the regular, cooler temperatures that they have become acclimatised to,” he adds. “They will usually require much more frequent watering to keep moisture levels in the soil at an adequate level during the hot, dry spell.”
The optimal time to give your plants a drink during sweltering weather is either first thing in the morning or late in the evening, when temperatures remain relatively mild. This ensures the soil can properly soak up the water and deliver it to the plant’s roots before the scorching midday sun gets a chance to evaporate it away.
Move vulnerable plants
Alongside additional watering, fragile plants should be shifted to either a shaded spot or brought inside until the extreme heat subsides. “Obviously, this is not possible for ground plants, but it is perfect for those in a container. A shaded room or shed is ideal for the most vulnerable plants that need ultimate protection from the harsh sun,” Calum advises.
“For ground plants that cannot be moved, mulching is a great solution. Applying a layer of mulch (such as compost or bark chips) around the base of your plants can help to retain moisture in the soil by shading it and preventing the water from evaporating. This is an effective extra step in keeping your plants healthy and hydrated.”
Create areas of shade
Meanwhile, sources of shade, such as pergolas, gazebos, and shade sails can allow you to enjoy your garden during a heatwave while avoiding direct sunlight.
“These additions will make your outdoor space far more enjoyable, particularly during the hottest times of the day,” Calum says. “Pergolas with retractable roofs are a fantastic, flexible option as they allow you to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation throughout the day.
“For smaller gardens (or for those on a tighter budget), a parasol can be the perfect shade solution to protect yourself and your plants from the intense sunlight. An added bonus is that parasols are portable, meaning you can move them around at different times of the day to suit your needs and follow the sun.”
Carefully consider materials
To prepare for future heatwaves, the expert says it is a good idea to consider the material of your garden furniture and how it absorbs or reflects heat. “Wooden structures tend to stay cooler than metal ones, so they will be more appropriate for placement in the sun, whereas metal furniture is best kept in shaded areas,” Calum explains.
“Synthetic fibres such as polyester and acrylic have long been used for seat and sunbed covers, but tend to absorb and retain heat, meaning you will feel much hotter when lounging on them. For a safer, more comfortable alternative, opt for fabrics in light shades with heat-reflecting properties.”
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