THE GARDEN Centre Association (GCA) is encouraging gardeners to water wisely during the current heatwave to help keep plants healthy while conserving precious water (July 2026).
Simple measures including watering at cooler times of day, mulching beds and prioritising vulnerable plants can make a significant difference during prolonged hot, dry weather.
GCA CEO and horticulturalist, Peter Burks says: “With very high temperatures being experienced across many parts of the UK and hosepipe bans in place in some areas, gardeners need to make every drop count.
“Watering deeply rather than little and often, focusing on the base of plants and checking containers daily can help gardens cope much better with the heat.
“We’re also encouraging people to reuse suitable grey water, which is water already used within the home for example for washing up or baths, where permitted and to prioritise newly planted shrubs, vegetables and containers, which are often most vulnerable during dry spells.”
The GCA advises gardeners to water early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler and less water is lost through evaporation. A thorough soak encourages plants to develop deeper roots, helping them become more resilient during periods of drought.
Peter adds: “People can also make use of automatic watering systems with individual micropipes going to each pot, drip watering them. These can be programmed to come on each night and use water very efficiently.”
Container-grown plants require particular attention because compost dries out much more quickly than garden soil. Grouping pots together can help create a more humid microclimate and reduce moisture loss.
Applying mulch, such as compost, bark chips or leaf mould, around plants can also help retain moisture, suppress weeds and keep roots cooler.
The GCA is also reminding gardeners not to worry if lawns turn brown during hot weather, as grass will often recover once rainfall returns. Instead, watering efforts should be focused on plants that genuinely need additional support.
Gardeners looking for further free expert advice can visit their nearest GCA member garden centre. To find one, please visit: www.gca.org.uk/find-a-garden-centre/.
The GCA represents more than 220 garden centres nationwide with more members joining each month.
Through sharing information and its inspection programme, the GCA helps members achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.
For further information, please go to www.gca.org.uk.
