If you’re planning on hosting summer gatherings and want to get your garden looking its absolute best, the secret isn’t just in the planning, it’s in the maintenance. As temperatures rise, our outdoor spaces often need a little extra care to stay vibrant and lush.

To help us navigate through this summer season, we interviewed our Head of Estates Management, Anthony, to get his advice on how to keep your garden green, hydrated and thriving during these heatwaves. Here is what he shared with us: 

Summer survival guide 

Maintaining a garden during a heatwave can often feel like a full time job but the key to survival  is to retain moisture and protect roots from the midday sun. 

• Water deeply and infrequently 

Instead of a light daily sprinkle, water deeply at the base of your plants in the early hours of the morning or late hours of the evening to minimise evaporation. This encourages roots to grow deeper into the cooler soil. 

• Importance of mulch 

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch such as straw, bark chips, compost or well-rotted organic matter to the top of your soil. This acts as a protective blanket, reducing moisture loss and insulating roots. It also suppresses weeds that compete with plants for water. 

• Protect your crops

Protect sensitive homegrown crops such as lettuce, tomatoes and peppers from the intense afternoon sun using shade cloths or old bedsheets and drape them over supports. 

• Avoid transplanting and repotting 

Avoid transplanting, repotting or heavy pruning during heatwaves as this puts extra stress on plants. You can also let your lawn grow slightly longer as this helps in shading the soil and prevents scorching. 

• Pots and containers

When choosing pots, opt for light-colored materials that reflect the sun. If you have darker pots, group them together to create a humid environment. 

Balcony plants for scorching summers 

For those with a smaller balcony instead of a garden, opt for drought-resistant and sun loving varieties that thrive in direct light and can withstand excess heat.

• Geraniums

  Low-maintenance as they store water in their stems and bloom all summer.

• Lavender

  Highly drought-tolerant and releases a wonderful scent on warm evenings. It also supports local biodiversity by attracting bees and pollinators.

• Salvia

  Known for a remarkably long flowering period and are loved by bees. 

• Agapanthus

  These produce striking, architectural flowers and cope well with intense heat.

• Bougainvillea

  For a splash of colour, these tropical blooms are ideal. The hotter and drier it gets, the brighter the colour.

• Mediterranean herbs

  Rosemary and thyme are known for loving the heat and are ideal for excess temperatures.

• Succulents

  Such as aloe vera or jade plants are perfect for small pots as they love the heat and require minimal water.

Anthony’s garden favourites

“I only have two small Bay trees in my garden! But my absolute favourite summer plant to recommend is Lavender. It’s hardy, low-maintenance, looks fantastic, and does wonders for our local ecosystem.

Summer gardening is all about working with the weather rather than against it. By improving soil health, watering wisely, and choosing plants suited to warmer conditions, even small outdoor spaces can remain colourful and healthy.”

Whether you’ve got a garden or a balcony, Anthony’s expert tried and tested tips will help keep your space green and vibrant all season long so you can enjoy hosting those summer gatherings.  

To find out how our Grounds Maintenance team are looking after your green spaces this summer, please view our schedule HERE.