Summer typically brings warmer temperatures and longer dry spells, and while this is great to enjoy, the weather can pose challenges for any garden space. From dry and brown lawn patches, to wilted and shrivelled flowerbeds, the hot and dry weather can be harmful to plants. As a result, knowing when and how to water, and how to manage the movement and retention of that water, is essential. So what do you need to know about watering plants and lawns in summer? And how can effective watering practices keep your garden looking fresh all summer?
What do you need to know about watering plants and lawns in summer?
There are a number of things you should consider when it comes to watering your garden in summer. These include:
- Knowing when to water
- Being consistent with watering
When should you water lawns and flowerbeds in summer?
One of the first factors to consider is the timing of your waterings. The best time to water plants and lawns in summer is early in the morning, ideally between 5am and 9am. During these cooler hours, less water evaporates, and moisture has a better chance of reaching the roots where it’s most needed. Evening watering is also possible, but it can increase the risk of fungal diseases as the moisture lingers overnight in cooler conditions.
It is essential that you avoid watering during the hottest part of the day, which is usually between 11am and 4pm, as most of the water will evaporate before it has time to soak in. Midday watering can also shock plants by suddenly cooling their leaves in direct sun, and this can have an adverse effect on plant health.
Why is consistent watering important?
Consistent watering plays an important role in the development of deep root systems, which in turn makes plants and grass more resilient to the heat and drought conditions of the summer. On the other hand, when watering is erratic, the roots tend to stay near the surface, leaving them vulnerable to drying out. Over time, this can lead to brown, patchy lawns and stressed garden plants.
For lawns, you should try to provide a deep watering once or twice a week, instead of light, frequent sprinklings. About 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week, including rainfall, is usually sufficient during the summer. You can measure this using a simple rain gauge or an empty can placed on the lawn during watering.
How can dry patches and browning be prevented?
Dry or brown patches in lawns and flower beds are often caused by uneven water distribution or poor soil structure. Areas in direct sun, on slopes, or near trees may dry out more quickly and need more frequent attention. There are a number of steps you can take to try and avoid this issue, including:
Aerating your lawn to improve soil absorption and reduce compaction.
Mulching flower beds to retain moisture, reduce surface evaporation, and regulate soil temperature.
Using soaker hoses or drip irrigation in garden beds for even distribution with minimal waste.
Adjusting sprinklers or watering systems to ensure even coverage, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
How can you avoid ponding and overwatering?
While under-watering is the primary concern in summer, overwatering can be just as harmful. Ponding often occurs in areas with poor drainage, compacted soil, or inefficient edging that allows water to collect where it shouldn’t. When this water pools on the surface, or runs off, it can suffocate roots and encourage fungal diseases and root rot. To prevent ponding, you should:
Break up compacted soil using a fork or aerator.
Improve soil structure with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Avoid watering faster than the soil can absorb. This is especially important for clay-heavy soils.
Use garden edging to shape the landscape and encourage proper water flow.
How can FlexiBorder help with water management?
One of the most effective, and often overlooked, tools for managing water in your garden is garden edging. FlexiBorder can be perfect for this.
FlexiBorder is a flexible, durable, and eco-friendly garden edging solution that allows you to define lawn edges, flower beds, and pathways with precision. By creating a physical barrier between different zones in your garden, FlexiBorder helps to:
- Direct water flow away from paths or patios and into beds where it’s needed.
- Prevent runoff by holding water within designated zones, allowing for better infiltration.
- Reduce water loss from exposed lawn edges, which are prone to drying and browning.
- Control mulch and soil movement, keeping beds tidy and improving moisture retention.
For garden edging with plenty of practical and aesthetic benefits, including water retention, choose FlexiBorder. Why not take a look at the range of options on offer today?
