Providing your plants with the right amount of water is one of the most important aspects of a plant’s healthy growth and survival through the summer months. Here are just a few tips to help you keep your plants well watered ...

Water container plants at least once a day during dry conditions. Ideally water your plants in the early morning or evening so there will be less water evaporation. When you planted up your containers remember to add some water retaining granules (such as Swellgel) which will help to retain water keeping the compost moist – this is particularly effective when planting up hanging baskets.

Help reduce moisture loss by finishing off containers with a decorative mulch – polished pebbles or glass chippings will look great and at the same time help prevent water evaporation.

Water your plants immediately if they start to wilt – if possible avoid getting water on the leaves as in direct sunlight this can cause the leaves to scorch. Ideally water the area of soil above the plant roots – you don’t need to saturate the plants as the excess water will only be wasted as it evaporates or runs off.