The heatwave is set to continue over the weekend and gardeners should ensure their plants are protected from the sun
Here’s how to keep your hydrangeas healthy during the summer heat
As the summer heatwave intensifies, not only do humans seek refuge in the shade, but our beloved hydrangeas feel the burn as well. These plants, known for their lush leaves and vibrant blooms, struggle during periods of high heat.
David Denyer, a UK-based gardening expert from Eflorist, cautions that even brief bouts of blistering weather can “cause lasting damage to plants,” but he’s got a trick up his sleeve to keep the flowers blooming all season long.
In other news, adding one particular item to your herb garden can enhance the growth of rosemary, thyme, and lavender. David has shared some “life-saving” strategies to ensure your hydrangeas survive even the most intense summer heat. And it’s not just hydrangea growers who stand to benefit—peonies, roses, begonias, and especially newly planted blossoms can also profit from this knowledge.
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Topping David’s “urgent” to-do list is determining the best time to quench these parched flowers. He advises, “Water before 9 am or after 7 pm. Midday sun evaporates water quickly and can even scorch foliage.”
Hydrangea flowers can be damaged by the sun(Image: Getty)
With forecasts predicting temperatures soaring over 30 degrees this weekend, it’s vital that gardeners carve out a few minutes to attend to this crucial task. “Morning watering is ideal. It gives the soil time to absorb the moisture before heat sets in,” he said.
Remember, it’s not just about when you hydrate your plants, but also the technique that makes a difference. Garden enthusiasts should aim for a “deeply and slowly” approach to watering their hydrangeas.
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David highlighted, “Surface watering doesn’t cut it. Focus on slow, deep watering at the base of plants. For containers, make sure water reaches the roots by soaking the soil thoroughly.” This approach promotes deeper penetration of roots into the soil, which in turn helps the plant become more drought-tolerant.
Applying a layer of mulch around the hydrangea’s base further boosts this effect by helping conserve moisture and stabilize soil temperature. Organic mulches such as wood chips or straw are top choices.
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The plant guru also recommends providing as much shade as possible to hydrangeas. This can be accomplished by moving potted ones to shaded areas like patios, underneath trees, or behind larger plants, or by using items such as garden fleece, parasols, or an old sheet to protect the delicate blooms throughout the day.
For those hitting the road for the weekend, some steps can safeguard your blossoms. Start by giving all your greenery a good watering the evening before setting out, since “saturated soil retains moisture longer.”
As mentioned before, remember to put down a generous layer of mulch (be it bark, straw, or compost) around the base to help seal in moisture and control the soil’s temperature.
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