No Hosepipe? Monty Don Says This Garden Job Is Just As Important As Watering For Healthy Summer Plants

With a hosepipe ban set to come into force for many on Thursday 23 July (unless you are exempt from it), gardeners may be wondering how they will keep their plants looking their best through the heat.

But according to Monty Don, watering is only part of the solution and there is another garden task that is just as essential for helping plants cope during the summer months.

The garden writer, broadcaster and lead presenter of the long-running BBC series Gardeners’ World has shared his advice for helping plants cope in hot weather, explaining that healthy soil plays a vital role in keeping gardens resilient when water is limited.

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Speaking about the importance of soil health on BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast, he said: “It always helps if you get your soil in good health.”

He continues: “If you have soil that is full of organic matter and therefore becomes loam, it will retain moisture and that’s really the secret of watering plants.

“Your plants should not be dependent upon you giving them water.”

Rather than relying solely on regular watering, Monty explained that improving the condition of your soil can help plants access and hold onto moisture naturally. Soil rich in organic matter acts like a sponge, allowing roots to draw up water when they need it.

Although a hosepipe ban may feel like a challenge, it can be a useful reminder that a healthy garden starts below ground. By improving soil quality, gardeners can help their plants stay stronger through periods of hot weather, without constantly reaching for the hose (especially when this isn’t an option).

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While soil health can help gardens withstand dry spells, the way you water can also make a significant difference – even if it is with a watering can, rather than a hose, during the upcoming Thames Water ban.

“The best time to water your container is early morning before the sun warms up,” says Monty. When temperatures are cooler and less water is lost through evaporation.

It can also be tempting to give plants small amounts of water frequently, but a thorough soak is often more effective. A deeper watering allows moisture to travel further down into the soil, encouraging roots to grow deeper and helping plants become more drought-resistant.

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If mornings are not possible, Monty suggests waiting until the evening, once the heat of the day has passed. He adds: “If you can’t get it done early in the morning, don’t do it during the middle of the day… wait until the evening.”

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