Summer's Looming Water Crisis: Expert Gardener Sounds Alarm on the Unnoticed Drought
In the heart of summer, a phenomenon known as the 'silent drought' has been causing concern among gardeners across the UK. Despite occasional showers, many plants and trees are not getting the water they need, leading to withered shrubs and ramblers, as reported by a follower based in Surrey.
Orpheus Alexander, a gardener, designer, and lifelong plant enthusiast, has been sharing practical tips and insights into his projects on Instagram, @ourwebsite. According to Orpheus, gardens are not receiving the water they should during this summer, a sentiment echoed by gardeners in various regions such as Somerset/Devon borders, South East Wales, and Surrey.
To combat the 'silent drought', it is crucial to water plants deeply and directly at the roots. This approach helps ensure soil moisture reaches the root zone and prevents the phenomenon of silent drought, where plant roots dry out despite rainfall or surface moisture. Mulching can also help retain soil moisture and reduce the risk of silent drought by slowing water evaporation from the soil surface.
Outdoor plants should be watered at least once a day during hot weather, with some container plants, especially those in full sun, potentially needing watering once or twice daily to prevent soil from drying out completely and to maintain adequate hydration. For plants producing fruit like tomatoes, which require more water, it is especially important to keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Watering at the coolest part of the day can help prevent water evaporation and ensure it goes further. To check if your containers need watering, touch or weigh them. If the soil is dry or the basket feels light, thoroughly water until moisture drains out the bottom.
Record-breaking high temperatures and lack of rainfall have led to the 'silent drought' in the UK. After sustained periods of hot weather, it's vital to water plants, trees, and shrubs that are suffering from the 'silent drought', even if there has been a downpour.
In times of a hosepipe ban, there are multiple ways to water a garden. Liquid seaweed feed is recommended by Orpheus as a good all-rounder for feeding plants and trees. For a more organic solution, an organic cold pressed concentrate plant feed fertiliser (2.5 Litres) is available for purchase, suitable for trees, lawns, vegetables, and house plants.
Even hardy plants and trees are showing signs of the 'silent drought', with brown leaves and wilting branches. By following these tips and staying vigilant, gardeners can help their plants weather the dry spell and continue to thrive.
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