Alan Titchmarsh explains how to get it right when it comes to watering the gardenMia O’Hare Senior Spare Time Journalist and Chloe Dobinson Digital Production Editor
13:19, 01 May 2026
The warmer weather will see gardeners water their plants more(Image: Catherine Delahaye via Getty Images)
Alan Titchmarsh has issued a caution to gardeners regarding watering practices this spring. The renowned horticulturist and television personality highlighted a frequent error people make when tending to their plants.
With brighter and drier conditions arriving, gardeners must support their flowers, shrubs and vegetables accordingly. Proper watering not only ensures survival but encourages flourishing growth.
Alan observed that sprinkler hoses are a favoured tool amongst gardeners for watering. Their popularity stems from covering extensive areas while being far more convenient than repeatedly filling watering cans.
Nevertheless, Alan pointed out that incorrect use of sprinkler hoses is a widespread blunder. In his Gardening with Alan Titchmarsh TikTok clip, the specialist showed precisely what to avoid, reports the Mirror.
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He raised his sprinkler hose well above the plant, directing water onto the foliage instead of the soil. Alan clarified: “This is how not to water.”
“You go out there on a sunny day and you think ‘I’ll give the plants a really good soak’. But, you’re not giving them a really good soak.
“You’re just putting water on the leaves and flowers, and it’s going to evaporate from the leaves and flowers before it goes where it’s needed.”
Alan instead advised gardeners: “Get it down there,” as he positioned the hose at ground level. He emphasised that while some foliage getting damp is inevitable, what matters most is directing water to the plant’s base.
This allows the roots to absorb moisture as it permeates the soil. For those with roses gracing their gardens, Alan has previously highlighted the need for specialist care, particularly during this season. He stressed that rose shrubs need proper pruning to ensure they flourish beautifully come summer.
Make sure to water the base of the plant not the flowers or leaves(Image: Getty Images)
When tackling the pruning task, it’s crucial to tell the difference between dead and older stems. Alan explained: “Dead has no living wood on it at all. A lot of older stems have green, young ones coming out the top.”
The approach to trimming shrub roses differs from other varieties; according to Alan, they shouldn’t be chopped down to knee level like you would with bush roses.
He noted: “These [shrub roses] tend to be taller, so you tip them back and thin the framework out.” Alan proceeded to remove weak branches and congested sections from his rose shrub.
After pruning, your shrub rose ought to be left with robust stems. Alan suggests nourishing the plant with blood, fish and bone fertiliser, which will leave the shrub “set up for the summer”.
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