COPING WITH THE HEATWAVE

There is no sign of the heatwave ending any day soon.

Many of us are struggling to get to terms with how to manage our plants in this heat (let's face it, we are NOT used to these conditions!).

Here are some tips for managing in the hot weather:

If you haven't already - put down some mulch - 3-4 in - this will help retain moisture in the ground
Move your pots into the shade, this will make a big difference in the amount of moisture they will lose during the day - whichever side of your house that gets the least sun is the ideal location
Prioritise - plants that are only recently established need more attention than well-established plants as their root systems aren't that deep yet
Your Lawn will recover so don't stress too much over that, if you have to cut it, be careful to keep the blades high
Recycle your water - collect and reuse water that you've used to wash fruit/veg/dishes. Have short showers (in bath if possible, collect the water and reuse when it has cooled down)
If you have to wash your car, try to do so on your lawn and water the grass as you wash! Remember the hosepipe ban, so only use a bucket of water to wash it.
Construct a sun screen over vulnerable plants if necessary - anything will do e.g. old sheets, old curtains, beach umbrella etc.
Water early in the morning or late in the evening. Beware of overwatering (there is a tendancy to get a little paranoid!)
In general. leave the soil undisturbed as much as possible

Call in to any of our Garden Centres in Bandon, Kinsale or Enniskeane for advice on taking care of specific plants and trees.

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