Alan Titchmarsh Gives Advice on Watering Plants in Hot Weather

Alan Titchmarsh is at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.

Gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh says some plants can be left without water this month. This is because of the very high temperatures and possible hosepipe bans. Some water companies already have temporary bans.

The Met Office says it was the hottest May day on record for England and Wales. Kew Gardens was very hot at 35.1C and Cardiff Bute Park was 32.9C.

The country is seeing more drought, with water shortages in 2025 being a big problem for the environment and agriculture.

Alan Titchmarsh talks to young people.

The dry weather is hurting crops, animals, and the environment, and increasing the risk of wildfires.

Alan says we should use water butts to catch rainwater and be careful with sprinklers because they use a lot of water.

Alan says we can stop watering some plants if water is short. He says we should prioritize and not waste water. Newly planted trees and plants need water, especially in their first year.

Alan recommends covering the soil with mulch after watering to keep it moist.

Alan says established trees and shrubs can find water deeper in the soil and don't need as much watering.

Alan says plants in containers, vegetables, and soft fruits like raspberries and strawberries need watering.

Alan Titchmarsh attends The RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Alan says we can leave the lawn without water because it will recover when it rains. He says it's responsible to save water.

Alan lists plants that need little water, including Catmint and Sedum.

Some plants can survive without extra water, like Forsythia, which keeps growing even when the soil is dry.

Mediterranean shrubs like lavender and rosemary are used to dry conditions and can survive with less water.

These plants have special leaves to keep moisture and can draw water from deep in the soil if it's not too shallow or compacted.

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