Summer is in full swing, and your dahlias, gladioli, cannas and tuberous begonias are growing strong. In the heat, proper watering makes all the difference between a flamboyant flowerbed and flowers running out of steam.
Here’s how to get it right:
1. Water early in the morning or in the evening
Never in full heat: the water evaporates too quickly and can even scorch the foliage.
2. Water deeply, but less often
A good, generous watering two to three times a week is better than a light sprinkle every day. This encourages the roots to grow deeper, making them more resistant to drought.
3. Mulch around the base of your bulbs
A layer of mulch (straw, dried grass clippings, bark) keeps the soil cool and reduces evaporation.
4. Keep an eye on the foliage
Yellowing or limply drooping leaves often signal a lack of water, while soft spots at the base tend to indicate too much.
5. Avoid wetting the flowers
Water on petals in full sun can stain them or encourage disease.
One last tip: potted bulbs dry out much faster than those planted in the ground. Check them daily once temperatures climb.
With these few simple steps, your summer flowerbeds will keep their full splendour right through to the first cool days of September