Britain’s heatwave is well and truly upon us, with May temperature records tumbling and new highs being set. While Brits will be soaking up the sunshine, it’s crucial that gardeners stay on top of their lawn maintenance to prevent grass from drying out and turning brown, and to keep the soil packed with nutrients to help plants endure the scorching conditions.
Gardening expert and TikTok creator Michael Griffiths addressed the widespread misconceptions about watering lawns during a heatwave. He explained: “You should only water in the early morning or late afternoon. This is about water efficiency for your wallet and the plant.
“You want to water at the optimum time when the plant can take in as much water as possible, and that is the morning or the evening.
View 2 ImagesWater lawns in the early morning or evening, but don’t be afraid of a midday water(Image: Getty)
“But that’s not the only time you can water. So if your plants are thirsty in the midday sun, give them a water. Yes, you’re gonna use more water due to evaporation and transpiration, but you’re certainly not gonna harm them.”
Aim to water your lawn in the early morning between 7am and 9am or during the evening from 9pm onwards. These periods are typically when both the ground and air are at their coolest, reducing the likelihood of water evaporating and keeping your lawn thoroughly hydrated, reports the Express.
Nevertheless, don’t hesitate to water your lawn and plants throughout the day if necessary.
It isn’t solely about keeping the ground moist, but also about properly preparing the soil and grass. This will assist the ground in holding onto its moisture during the hottest days.
A problem that may arise with unprepared ground is that water won’t penetrate the soil properly, effectively drowning the grass above while failing to adequately nourish the lawn.
To ensure your lawn is ready for a thorough watering, it’s essential to keep on top of its maintenance. Check that the ground isn’t excessively compacted, as water will simply pool on the surface rather than soaking down into the soil.
The water will merely evaporate instead. To prepare the ground, you can use an aerator, scarifier, or even a garden fork. This is to poke holes directly into the soil to help the water drain in.
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Michael also highlighted another widely held misconception about watering lawns, and how irrigation could actually harm your plants. He said: “Watering in full sun will burn your plant’s leaves.
“The myth goes that watering in hot weather will create droplets on the leaves, making mini magnifying glasses. The reality is plants survive quite happily in sun and showers and don’t suffer from leaf scorch.”
To shield your plants from the sun’s intensity, gardeners can relocate potted plants into a shaded spot. This helps the plant’s soil retain its moisture more effectively. You can also scatter light-coloured gravel across the surface of the soil, which works to reflect sunlight, stopping the soil from overheating and drying out.