We have had some of the hottest and driest weather on records in this country and in fact, this part of the world. Our choices are now much more critical than in years of old. Whereas we would have our large deep border with a mass of shrubs, perennials and mixed anuals, we now need to buy andt plant only those plants that can withstand our new weather conditions year in, year out. Instead of small pots with plants in, they would survive for longer if planted in the actual garden, especially if they have a heavy coating of mulch at the time of planting together with a really huge soaking with water. This combination not only helps keep the plant in damp enough medium, it gives it just a bit more nutrition. Over the months all the compost put around plants will work its way through the plant and give it a new boost.
To help retain water in planted pots, it can be very worthwhile to pop a few moisture retaining gel capsules that keep the compost from drying out too much between waterings. Getting into a good gardening routine also helps – try to do some watering and dead heading every day throughout the growing season and it is surprising how well the garden shrubs and plants are able to withtand the heat onslaught.
