Matt Lindsay, Director of Growing Revolution, shares his ideas for weather-resistant gardens as UK temperatures soar
As temperatures soar and UK heatwaves become more frequent and intense, it is crucial for gardeners and plant enthusiasts to prepare their gardens to withstand the scorching conditions. Growing Revolution, the UK’s leading living wall specialist, is offering valuable advice on how to ensure your garden is heatwave-proof and to create a space that’s both aesthetically pleasing and simple to care for.
Matt Lindsay, Director of Growing Revolution, UK living wall specialists and creators of PlantBox, has put together his tips to help design your garden with hotter weather in mind. Matt said; “With temperatures in the UK rapidly rising, we’re expecting more regular heatwaves and much warmer summers. While the garden should provide a space for us to indulge in the sunshine, our outdoor areas also need to adapt to withstand the heat. From nurturing and choosing plants that are more drought tolerant, to considering water usage, hotter temperatures mean big changes for how we design, use, and maintain our gardens.
“For example, traditional lawns rely on constant watering with the hose, and so lawncare may not be as simple in the future. This doesn’t mean we can’t have greenspace in our gardens though, and living walls are a great alternative. Our PlantBox can utilise 1.8 litres over up to two weeks, saving water and keeping plants healthy even during hot spells.
“Additionally, it’s important we protect the delicate balance of our ecosystems and keep our plants happy and healthy no matter what the British weather surprises us with. Creating spaces that are suitable for increased temperatures, while continuing to support biodiversity is going to be key.”
With a little preparation and clever, thoughtful design, gardens can thrive even in the most sweltering heatwaves. Matt’s suggestions for a heatwave proof garden are:
- Design a garden that includes shaded areas
Shaded spots are going to become increasingly refreshing as temperatures continue to rise and will be a place of respite for us and our plants. Create shade for delicate plants by using shade cloth, umbrellas, or planting taller plants nearby to provide natural shade. Install temporary shade structures to protect potted plants during extreme heat. Consider using row covers or shade netting to protect vegetable beds or young seedlings. It’s also a common misconception that naturally shaded areas aren’t suitable for positioning your plants. Growing Revolution’s Shady Daze Bundle contains everything you need to get started with setting up your own living wall in the garden, with carefully curated plants that thrive in shaded areas. Perfect for a wall or fence that receives little to no sunlight, so you can make the most of shady spots that are otherwise often left bare.
Growing Revolution’s PlantBox For the areas doused in sunshine, the Sunny Galore Bundle contains everything you need to create a living wall fit for the sun, including a mix of species such as Campanula, Heuchera and Euonymus.
- Use efficient irrigation systems:
Install a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to plant roots. These systems minimise water loss through evaporation and ensure efficient water usage. Consider using a timer to automate watering schedules. Growing Revolution’s revolutionary PlantBox living walls have a built-in water irrigation system, that allows the plants in your vertical garden to soak up water as and when they need it. This can allow you to create a thriving living wall in your garden, that is cleverly designed to thrive even in the heat.
- Water plants deeply and infrequently:
Water your plants deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the root zone. This promotes stronger and deeper root growth, making plants more resilient to heat stress. Water in the early morning or late evening to minimise evaporation. Avoid frequent shallow watering, as it encourages shallow root growth and makes plants more vulnerable to heat.
- Introduce an outdoor dining space and kitchen garden
With warmer weather, Brits will be able to benefit from milder evenings, allowing us to use our gardens later into the day. While curating a heatwave ready garden, consider creating an outdoor dining area so that the space remains functional later into the day. A kitchen garden is a great complementary option when outdoor dining. You can not only enjoy freshly grown and cut produce in your summer salad, but also cut your food’s airmiles, helping to slow global warming at the same time. A sizeable allotment isn’t required, and some produce can be grown vertically. Growing Revolution’s Grow Your Own Bundle, and the Herbie Bundle, both offer novice gardeners a great way to get growing.
- Monitor plants regularly:
Keep a close eye on your plants during heatwaves. Look for signs of wilting, leaf discoloration, or stress. Adjust your watering and provide additional shade or protection as needed. A living wall can be a great option for those with mobility issues, as it removes the need to bend down low to the ground for gardening and maintenance. PlantBox Bundles include everything you need to get started with creating a living wall at home, including peat-free compost and a selection of starter plants.
- Provide shelter for wildlife:
Provide a water source, such as a birdbath or shallow dish with fresh water, to help birds and other wildlife during extreme heat. Also, consider providing shade or sheltered areas for wildlife in your garden. Living walls create the perfect shelter for wildlife, as birds can create nests safely nestled into the shelves amongst the plants.
- Choose drought-tolerant plants:
One way to ensure your garden is always ready for a heatwave is to select plant varieties that are known to thrive in hot and dry conditions. Look for drought-tolerant plants such as succulents, cacti, lavender, yarrow, and ornamental grasses. PlantBox Bundles contain everything you need to create a thriving vertical garden. Choose from 3, 5, or 10 PlantBox troughs, accompanied by high-quality peat-free compost and a thoughtfully selected array of plants that thrive in sunny spots.
With a bit of forward planning, you can help your garden withstand heatwaves and ensure the health and vitality of your plants, even during challenging weather conditions. PlantBox living walls are a great option, and the in-built water irrigation system removes the risk of plants drying up in the heat. Growing Revolution is one of the UK’s leading living wall suppliers. With its innovative PlantBox product, it is helping more people access green space. Made from 100% recycled materials and with a cascading watering system that simplifies plant care, its product was commended as the 2021 RHS Chelsea Sustainable Garden Product of the Year.
Visit www.growingrevolution.com to find out more and to order your PlantBox living wall today.
