Garden expert alerts public to impending 'silent dryness' this summer that requires vigilance
During the current "silent drought" in the UK, characterized by sparse but heavy downpours that do not adequately hydrate gardens, many trees and plants are struggling to stay hydrated. Orpheus Alexander, a gardener, designer, and plant enthusiast, warns that even hardy plants and trees are suffering from this water scarcity at the roots.
This issue, while less visible than other effects of hot weather, can be combated with some simple yet effective strategies.
During hot weather, plants generally require at least 1 inch of water per week, but this need increases in dry conditions. Deep root watering, providing water directly to the root zone, is crucial, especially during a silent drought, to combat dry roots despite occasional rainfall.
To retain moisture in the soil and help plants stay hydrated:
- Mulch heavily (2-4 inches), using organic materials like bark, shredded leaves, or grass clippings. Mulching reduces evaporation, keeps soil cooler, and suppresses weeds.
- Water early in the morning or late in the afternoon/evening to reduce evaporation and allow water to soak in effectively.
- Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water slowly and directly to roots, improving water efficiency and reducing waste.
- Regularly check soil moisture by feeling 1 inch below the surface; water accordingly, especially in sandy soils which dry faster.
- Avoid watering from above (sprinklers) in intense heat, as water can evaporate quickly or not reach roots adequately.
- Promote humidity around plants if possible to reduce water stress, and consider rotating watering areas to prevent over-saturation and encourage strong root systems.
By combining these strategies, plants can withstand hot weather and silent drought by maintaining adequate moisture in the root zone while conserving water in the soil.
Orpheus shared the phenomenon of the silent drought with his followers, who responded with stories of similar experiences in various regions across the UK. Some gardeners reported that their Acers are almost leafless, while others mentioned losing shrubs and trees due to the dry weather.
In times of a hosepipe ban, there are several ways to water a garden effectively. For example, a product for plant feed fertiliser, Organic cold pressed concentrate - 100% Natural, is available for £19.95 and can be used for trees, lawns, veg, and house plants.
Remember, brown leaves, wilting branches, and dying plants are signs of silent drought. Taking a close look at the plants and trees in your garden can help ensure you don't fall victim to this invisible water shortage.
For more practical tips and behind-the-scenes glimpses of Orpheus' projects, follow him on Instagram at @our website. Stay vigilant, stay hydrated, and enjoy your garden through the hot weather!
[1] The Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Watering plants and containers. [online] Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=451
[2] The Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Watering in dry weather. [online] Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/guides-to-growing/plants-and-growing-media/watering-in-dry-weather
[3] The Met Office. (2021). UK weather forecast: Temperature to soar to 34C as heatwave continues. [online] Available at: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/ukforecast/16349
[4] The Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Watering in pots and containers. [online] Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/guides-to-growing/plants-and-growing-media/watering-in-pots-and-containers
[5] The Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Mulching. [online] Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/guides-to-growing/plants-and-growing-media/mulching
- Incorporating strategies such as mulching, deep root watering, and using drip irrigation can help combat water scarcity during a silent drought and maintain adequate moisture in the root zone.
- It's vital to maintain the health and wellness of plants during hot weather, as signs like brown leaves and wilting branches may indicate a silent drought.
- Homeowners can implement various methods to water their gardens effectively, even during a hosepipe ban, such as using organic cold pressed concentrate for plant feed fertiliser.
- The health-and-wellness and lifestyle sectors can offer valuable advice on how to care for plants during drought conditions, like following professionals such as Orpheus Alexander on social media platforms like Instagram.
- In the realm of science, studies have shown that gardens require at least 1 inch of water per week, which increases in dry conditions, and that gardening practices can significantly impact a garden's ability to withstand water shortages.
