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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 80 (from laksa136)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa080.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/","crawl_time":1776077349,"first_indexed_time":1521105587,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,gardenersworld!www,\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/ s443","src_root_hash":"17887629439693257280","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Garden Guide To Summer Watering | BBC Gardeners World Magazine","meta_descriptions":["Find out which plants need the most watering in summer, and which ones can cope without it, with advice from the experts at BBC Gardeners' World Magazine."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Summer can be a tough time for plants. During very hot spells, greenhouses and conservatories can become more desert than damp, while containers seem to become dry within hours of watering them.\nBy knowing which plants to prioritise, and when to water, you can make the best use of your time by watering those that need it most.\nFor example, plants requiring moist conditions, such as\nlobelia\n,\nor those in greenhouses and containers, need watering significantly more than mature trees, or drought-tolerant shrubs like\ncordylines\nand\naeoniums\n.\nDiscover\ndrought-tolerant plants to grow\nand our list of the\nbest watering cans\n.\nSave time and precious water by following our guide to summer watering, below.\nWater every day or two\nThe top priorities for watering are seedlings, cuttings and young plants, plus anything that's been recently planted. Other thirsty plants are those potted in a greenhouse or conservatory, such as\ntomatoes\nand\ncucumbers\n. Water the trunk of\ntree ferns\ndaily to create humidity.\nWatering cucumbers growing in pots with a watering can\nPlants to water:\nTomatoes: when flowering and fruits are swelling\nCucumbers: when flowering and fruits are swelling\nGarden peas\n: when pods swell in dry weather\nTree ferns: water the trunk daily\nLobelia cardinalis\n: most at home in swamps, so requires moist soil\nWater once a week\nNext come plants with shallow root systems, including bedding plants and large, thin-leaved subtropical plants and ferns. Bog plants, moisture-loving perennials and many veg crops, like\nspinach\n,\nlettuce\nand\ncelery\n, will also suffer if left to dry out.\nWatering young spinach\nPlants to water:\nBrassicas\n: cabbage,\ncauliflower\nand\nBrussels sprouts\nLettuce: especially when grown as a cut-and-come crop\nSpinach: prone to bolting. The crop can be ruined if it becomes dry\nCelery: needs plenty of moisture. Water twice a week if dry\nHydrangeas\n: these water-lovers wilt quickly\nWater once a fortnight\nDuring long, dry spells, water plants that can normally fend for themselves, like\nclematis\nand roses, by soaking thoroughly once a fortnight. Also, water\nfruit trees on dwarfing rootstocks\n, shallow-rooted shrubs like\ncamellias\n, and plantings from last autumn, in this way.\nMauve clematis in bloom\nPlants to water:\nRoses: dry conditions encourage mildew\nOrnamental willows: tolerant but will suffer if left dry for long\nClematis: these prefer cool roots and hot heads\nEupatorium: these start to droop when dry\nIrises\nensata\nand\nsiberi\nc\na\n: need lots of water\nAvoid watering\nParts of the garden can be left unwatered to reduce dependence on irrigation and allow tough plants like verbascums to thrive. Don't water mature trees, shrubs and hedges – it's a waste. Lawns may also be left unwatered – if it goes brown, it will recover when rain arrives.\nTall spires of pale, orange-yellow verbascum flowers\nPlants to leave:\nCordylines: tough leaves retain their moisture\nVerbascums: thrives in dry soil where others can't cope\nPeriwinkles: born survivors, they thrive on neglect\nAeoniums:\nsucculent\nleaves store enough moisture to live\nAgaves: infrequent rain is all that's needed\nSave water\nIn hot spells, save water however you can - read our guide to\nsaving water in the garden\n.\nSome of the best drought-resistant plants\nAlliums\nBallota\nEuphorbia\nGaura\nHelianthemum\nNepeta\nSantolina\nSedum\nStachys\nStipa\nThyme\nVerbena","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/#site-main)\n\n- [Subscribe](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/subscribe\/ \"Subscribe\")\n- [Newsletter sign up](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/newsletters\/ \"Newsletter sign up\")\n- [2-for-1 Gardens](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/2-for-1-gardens\/ \"2-for-1 Gardens\")\n- [Gardeners' World events](https:\/\/www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com\/events\/?src=gwcom-eyebrowlink-eventspagegw25 \"Gardeners' World events\")\n- [Buy Magazine](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/subscribe\/ \"Buy Magazine\")\n- [Make a Metre Matter](http:\/\/gardenersworld.com\/make-a-metre-matter\/ \"Make a Metre Matter\")\n\n- [Sign in](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/api\/auth\/login)\n- [Register](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/api\/auth\/signup)\n\n[Sign in](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/api\/auth\/login)\n\n[Register](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/api\/auth\/signup)\n\nFrom the team at BBC Gardeners' World Magazine\n\n- [What to do now](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/what-to-do-now-april\/ \"What to do now\")\n- [Plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/ \"Plants\")\n  - [Back to Main menu]()\n  - [Plant finder](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/search?q=plants&tab=plants \"Plant finder\")\n  - [Trees & shrubs](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/native-trees-and-shrubs-to-grow\/ \"Trees & shrubs\")\n  - [Perennials](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/perennial-plants\/ \"Perennials\")\n  - [Fruit, veg & herbs](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/low-maintenance-veg-and-fruit\/ \"Fruit, veg & herbs\")\n  - [Climbers](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/climbers\/ \"Climbers\")\n  - [Bulbs](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/bulbs\/ \"Bulbs\")\n  - [Seed sowing](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/seed-sowing\/ \"Seed sowing\")\n  - [Allotments](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/allotment-growing\/ \"Allotments\")\n  - [What to plant now](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/what-to-plant-in-february\/ \"What to plant now\")\n  - [Houseplants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/grow-house-plants\/ \"Houseplants\")\n    - [Back to Plants]()\n    - [House plant flies](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/house-plants\/how-to-tackle-house-plant-flies\/ \"House plant flies\")\n    - [Moving houseplants outside](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/house-plants\/moving-house-plants-outdoors-in-summer\/ \"Moving houseplants outside\")\n    - [Cat friendly house plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/house-plants\/plants-cat-friendly-houseplants\/ \"Cat friendly house plants\")\n    - [Browse all house plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/grow-house-plants\/ \"Browse all house plants\")\n  - [Flowers](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/different-types-of-flowers-to-grow\/ \"Flowers\")\n    - [Back to Plants]()\n    - [Sunflowers](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-sunflowers\/ \"Sunflowers\")\n    - [Sweet peas](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-sweet-peas\/ \"Sweet peas\")\n    - [Forget-me-not](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-forget-me-not\/ \"Forget-me-not\")\n    - [Browse all flower guides](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/grow-flowers\/ \"Browse all flower guides\")\n  - [Vegetables](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/grow-vegetables\/ \"Vegetables\")\n    - [Back to Plants]()\n    - [Grow chillies](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-peppers-and-chillies\/ \"Grow chillies\")\n    - [Grow tomatoes](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-tomatoes\/ \"Grow tomatoes\")\n    - [Grow courgettes](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-courgettes\/ \"Grow courgettes\")\n    - [Browse all veg guides](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/grow-vegetables\/ \"Browse all veg guides\")\n  - [Fruits](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/grow-fruits\/ \"Fruits\")\n    - [Back to Plants]()\n    - [Grow strawberries](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-strawberries\/ \"Grow strawberries\")\n    - [Grow rhubarb](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-rhubarb\/ \"Grow rhubarb\")\n    - [Grow raspberries](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-raspberries\/ \"Grow raspberries\")\n    - [Browse all fruit plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/grow-guides\/grow-fruits\/ \"Browse all fruit plants\")\n- [Advice](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/garden-advice\/ \"Advice\")\n  - [Back to Main menu]()\n  - [Gardening guides](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/garden-advice\/ \"Gardening guides\")\n    - [Back to Advice]()\n    - [Beginner guides](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/garden-advice\/beginner-gardening\/ \"Beginner guides\")\n    - [How to prune](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-prune-your-plants\/ \"How to prune\")\n    - [Mulch guide](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/maintain-the-garden\/mulches-and-mulching\/ \"Mulch guide\")\n    - [Composting](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/maintain-the-garden\/how-to-compost\/ \"Composting\")\n    - [Lawn mowing](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/maintain-the-garden\/how-to-mow-a-lawn\/ \"Lawn mowing\")\n    - 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[Browse all garden offers](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/garden-offers\/ \"Browse all garden offers\")\n  - [Crosswords](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/crosswords \"Crosswords\")\n  - [Live Shows](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/gardeners-world-events\/ \"Live Shows\")\n    - [Back to Offers]()\n    - [Spring Fair](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/garden-offers\/travel-and-events\/bbc-gardeners-world-spring-fair-2026\/ \"Spring Fair\")\n    - [Gardeners’ World Live](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/garden-offers\/travel-and-events\/bbc-gardeners-world-live\/ \"Gardeners’ World Live\")\n    - [Shop the Shows](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/shop-the-shows\/ \"Shop the Shows\")\n  - [2-for-1 Gardens](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/2-for-1-gardens\/ \"2-for-1 Gardens\")\n- [Win](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/win-2\/ \"Win\")\n- [Premium](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/premium\/april\/ \"Premium\")\n- [Subscribe](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/subscribe\/ \"Subscribe\")\n- [Newsletter sign up](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/newsletters\/ \"Newsletter sign up\")\n- [2-for-1 Gardens](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/2-for-1-gardens\/ \"2-for-1 Gardens\")\n- [Gardeners' World events](https:\/\/www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com\/events\/?src=gwcom-eyebrowlink-eventspagegw25 \"Gardeners' World events\")\n- [Buy Magazine](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/subscribe\/ \"Buy Magazine\")\n- [Make a Metre Matter](http:\/\/gardenersworld.com\/make-a-metre-matter\/ \"Make a Metre Matter\")\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/)\n- [Plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/)\n- Garden guide to summer watering\n\n![Watering a mixed container with a watering can](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/a1b03326-1af0-4ae2-803c-a7bd420182f6-fd7b56f.jpg?quality=90&resize=940,627)\n\n# Garden guide to summer watering\n- [BBC Gardeners' World Magazine](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/author\/gw-staff\/)\n\nPublished: Monday, 18 July 2022 at 9:00 am\n\nShort of time, or trying to save water? Find out which plants to focus your efforts on during hot weather.\n\nSave\n\n- [Share on facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/)\n- [Share on twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering%0A%0A&url=https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/)\n- [Share on pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/&media=https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/a1b03326-1af0-4ae2-803c-a7bd420182f6-fd7b56f.jpg&description=Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering)\n- [Share on whatsapp](whatsapp:\/\/send?text=%22Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering%22%20https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/)\n- [Share on blogger](https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/blog-this.g?u=https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/&n=Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering)\n- [Email to a friend](<mailto:?subject=Oh look...&body=Saw this and thought of you...%0A%0Ahttps:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/>)\n\nSummer can be a tough time for plants. During very hot spells, greenhouses and conservatories can become more desert than damp, while containers seem to become dry within hours of watering them.\n\nAd\n\nBy knowing which plants to prioritise, and when to water, you can make the best use of your time by watering those that need it most.\n\nFor example, plants requiring moist conditions, such as [lobelia](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-lobelia\/)*,* or those in greenhouses and containers, need watering significantly more than mature trees, or drought-tolerant shrubs like [cordylines](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/cordyline-australis-red-star\/) and [aeoniums](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/aeonium-arboreum\/).\n\nDiscover [drought-tolerant plants to grow](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/drought-tolerant-plants-to-grow\/) and our list of the [best watering cans](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/product-guides\/accessories\/best-watering-cans\/).\n\nSave time and precious water by following our guide to summer watering, below.\n\n### Water every day or two\nThe top priorities for watering are seedlings, cuttings and young plants, plus anything that's been recently planted. Other thirsty plants are those potted in a greenhouse or conservatory, such as [tomatoes](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-tomatoes\/) and [cucumbers](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-cucumbers\/). Water the trunk of [tree ferns](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-tree-ferns\/) daily to create humidity.\n\n![Watering cucumbers](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/5c1bb929-d39c-4aa4-b58f-f5f7d22459ec-5cc2a69.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nWatering cucumbers growing in pots with a watering can\n\nPlants to water:\n\n- Tomatoes: when flowering and fruits are swelling\n- Cucumbers: when flowering and fruits are swelling\n- [Garden peas](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-peas\/): when pods swell in dry weather\n- Tree ferns: water the trunk daily\n- [*Lobelia cardinalis*](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/lobelia-cardinalis\/): most at home in swamps, so requires moist soil\n### Water once a week\nNext come plants with shallow root systems, including bedding plants and large, thin-leaved subtropical plants and ferns. Bog plants, moisture-loving perennials and many veg crops, like [spinach](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-spinach\/), [lettuce](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-lettuce\/) and [celery](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/celeriac-grow-guide\/), will also suffer if left to dry out.\n\n![Watering spinach](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/177c585e-3a3f-46de-a03a-58fb99aec4a8-f0edd9a.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nWatering young spinach\n\nPlants to water:\n\n- [Brassicas](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/brassicas-vegetables\/): cabbage, [cauliflower](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-cauliflower\/) and [Brussels sprouts](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-brussels-sprouts\/)\n- Lettuce: especially when grown as a cut-and-come crop\n- Spinach: prone to bolting. The crop can be ruined if it becomes dry\n- Celery: needs plenty of moisture. Water twice a week if dry\n- [Hydrangeas](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-hydrangeas\/): these water-lovers wilt quickly\n### Water once a fortnight\nDuring long, dry spells, water plants that can normally fend for themselves, like [clematis](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-clematis\/) and roses, by soaking thoroughly once a fortnight. Also, water [fruit trees on dwarfing rootstocks](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/choosing-a-fruit-tree-rootstock\/), shallow-rooted shrubs like [camellias](), and plantings from last autumn, in this way.\n\n![Clematis](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/0dca779c-cc37-4d5b-aaae-878547f0f416-f03a70c.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nMauve clematis in bloom\n\nPlants to water:\n\n- Roses: dry conditions encourage mildew\n- Ornamental willows: tolerant but will suffer if left dry for long\n- Clematis: these prefer cool roots and hot heads\n- Eupatorium: these start to droop when dry\n- Irises *ensata* and *siberi*c*a*: need lots of water\n### Avoid watering\nParts of the garden can be left unwatered to reduce dependence on irrigation and allow tough plants like verbascums to thrive. Don't water mature trees, shrubs and hedges – it's a waste. Lawns may also be left unwatered – if it goes brown, it will recover when rain arrives.\n\n![Verbascum](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/c39025f5-4f3b-40b5-9e3e-a64d0fb65288-cf6dc5e.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nTall spires of pale, orange-yellow verbascum flowers\n\nPlants to leave:\n\n- Cordylines: tough leaves retain their moisture\n- Verbascums: thrives in dry soil where others can't cope\n- Periwinkles: born survivors, they thrive on neglect\n- Aeoniums: [succulent](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/best-succulents-to-grow\/) leaves store enough moisture to live\n- Agaves: infrequent rain is all that's needed\n\nAd\n\n#### Save water\nIn hot spells, save water however you can - read our guide to [saving water in the garden](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/save-water-in-the-garden\/).\n\n![](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/2742608c-7097-4c93-a1bb-010d7e96dedd-98f1080.png?quality=90&resize=767,697)\n## Some of the best drought-resistant plants\n- [Alliums](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/alliums-grow-guide\/)\n- Ballota\n- [Euphorbia](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/house-plants\/how-to-grow-euphorbia\/)\n- [Gaura](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-gaura\/)\n- Helianthemum\n- [Nepeta](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-catmint\/)\n- [Santolina](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/santolina-chamaecyparissus\/)\n- [Sedum](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-sedums\/)\n- Stachys\n- [Stipa](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-stipa-tenuissima\/)\n- [Thyme](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-thyme\/)\n- [Verbena](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/verbena-bonariensis\/)\n\n#### Offers from Gardeners' World\n[2 for 1 Gardens guide](https:\/\/bit.ly\/4nEQGQc)\n\n£6.99\n\n[SAVE 25%](https:\/\/bit.ly\/3PvlzLh)\n\n[Sunflower and Salvia Summer Collection](https:\/\/bit.ly\/3PvlzLh)\n\n£31.39£41.85\n\nSupplied as 4 x 9cm pots (1 of each variety)\n###### use code: GWMAY2026\n\n[BOGOF](https:\/\/bit.ly\/3Q0dVZO)\n\n[Strawberry ’Sweet Summer’](https:\/\/bit.ly\/3Q0dVZO)\n\n£14.99£29.98\n\nSupplied as 12 x runners plus 12 more for FREE\\!\n## Sponsored content\n\nAd\n\nAd\n\n[Get the best blooms all summer](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/subscribe\/?utm_source=fabric&utm_medium=brandsite&utm_campaign=summer-2026&utm_content=sidebar-widget)\n\nSubscribe today for expert advice, summer-ready inspiration and trusted gardening tips, delivered to your door – enjoy 3 months for £9.99 when you subscribe now.\n\n[Subscribe now](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/subscribe\/?utm_source=fabric&utm_medium=brandsite&utm_campaign=summer-2026&utm_content=sidebar-widget)\n\n[Great gardening advice for FREE](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/registration)\n\nSign up to the Gardeners' World newsletter, for advice from Monty and all your favourite gardeners\n\n[Sign up now](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/registration)\n\n[Great gardening savings - straight to your inbox](https:\/\/bit.ly\/4od34Hy)\n\nSign up to our offers newsletter for exclusive savings on plants, bulbs, seeds, and top gardening gear - all from trusted suppliers.\n\n[Sign up now](https:\/\/bit.ly\/4od34Hy)\n\n#### You may like\n[The best watering cans for your garden in 2025](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/product-guides\/accessories\/best-watering-cans\/)\n\n[Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden 2-for-1 Entry](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/2-for-1-gardens\/east-of-england\/fairhaven-woodland-water-garden-2-for-1-entry\/)\n\nAd\n\n#### You may also like\n[The best watering cans for your garden in 2025](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/product-guides\/accessories\/best-watering-cans\/)\n\n[Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden 2-for-1 Entry](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/2-for-1-gardens\/east-of-england\/fairhaven-woodland-water-garden-2-for-1-entry\/)\n\n[The best solar water features in 2025](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/product-guides\/best-solar-water-features\/)\n\n[23 summer container ideas for your garden](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/best-summer-containers\/)\n## Sponsored content\n#### You may also like\n[The best watering cans for your garden in 2025](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/product-guides\/accessories\/best-watering-cans\/)\n\n[Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden 2-for-1 Entry](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/2-for-1-gardens\/east-of-england\/fairhaven-woodland-water-garden-2-for-1-entry\/)\n\n[The best solar water features in 2025](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/product-guides\/best-solar-water-features\/)\n\n[Blossoms, palaces and palm houses: 10 unmissable gardens around the world](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/travel\/unmissable-gardens-around-the-world\/)\n## Sponsored content\n\n- [Visit us on Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/GWmagazine)\n- [Visit us on Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/gwmag)\n- [Visit us on Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/gardenersworldmag\/)\n- [Visit us on Pinterest](http:\/\/uk.pinterest.com\/gwmag)\n- [Visit us on Youtube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@BBCGardenersWorldMagazine)\n- [Visit us on Rss](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/feed\/atom\/)\n\n- [About us](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/about-us\/ \"About us\")\n- [Contact us](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/contact-us\/ \"Contact us\")\n- [Privacy policy](https:\/\/www.immediate.co.uk\/privacy\/ \"Privacy policy\")\n- [Cookie policy](https:\/\/www.immediate.co.uk\/cookies\/ \"Cookie policy\")\n- [Terms & conditions](http:\/\/www.immediate.co.uk\/terms-and-conditions\/ \"Terms & conditions\")\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/contact-us\/ \"Advertise\")\n- [Complaints](http:\/\/www.immediate.co.uk\/complaints-escalation\/ \"Complaints\")\n- [Contact BBC Studios](https:\/\/www.bbcstudios.com\/contact\/contact-us\/ \"Contact BBC Studios\")\n- [Accessibility](https:\/\/www.immediate.co.uk\/accessibility\/ \"Accessibility\")\n- [AI Policy](https:\/\/www.immediate.co.uk\/genai\/ \"AI Policy\")\n- [Manage Privacy Settings](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/guide-to-summer-watering\/ \"Manage your privacy and consent settings\")\n\nThis website is published by Immediate Media Company Limited under licence from BBC Studios Distribution.\n\n© Immediate 2026\n\n- [Gardeners' World Live](https:\/\/www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com\/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=gwcom&utm_campaign=bbcgwl&utm_id=btl&utm_content=footer \"Gardeners' World Live\")\n- [Autumn Fair](https:\/\/www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com\/autumn-fair\/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=gwcom&utm_campaign=bbcgwaf&utm_id=btl&utm_content=footer \"Autumn Fair\")\n- [Spring Fair](https:\/\/www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com\/spring-fair\/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=gwcom&utm_campaign=bbcgwsf&utm_id=btl&utm_content=footer \"Spring Fair\")\n- [OliveMagazine.com](https:\/\/www.olivemagazine.com\/ \"OliveMagazine.com\")\n- [GoodFood.com](https:\/\/www.goodfood.com\/ \"GoodFood.com\")\n- [RadioTimes.com](https:\/\/www.radiotimes.com\/ \"RadioTimes.com\")\n- [MadeforMums.com](https:\/\/www.madeformums.com\/ \"MadeforMums.com\")\n- [HistoryExtra.com](https:\/\/www.historyextra.com\/ \"HistoryExtra.com\")\n\n- [Plant profiles](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/ \"Plant profiles\")\n- [Alpine plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/alpine-plants\/ \"Alpine plants\")\n- [Annual plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/annual-plants\/ \"Annual plants\")\n- [Biennial plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/biennial-plants\/ \"Biennial plants\")\n- [Bog plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/bog-plants\/ \"Bog plants\")\n- [Bulbs](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/bulbs\/ \"Bulbs\")\n- [Climbers](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/climbers\/ \"Climbers\")\n- [Deciduous plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/deciduous-plants\/ \"Deciduous plants\")\n- [Evergreen plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/evergreens-plants\/ \"Evergreen plants\")\n- [Fruits](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/fruits\/ \"Fruits\")\n- [Herbs](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/herbs\/ \"Herbs\")\n- [House plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/house-plants\/ \"House plants\")\n- [Marginal plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/marginal-plants\/ \"Marginal plants\")\n- [Perennial plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/perennial-plants\/ \"Perennial plants\")\n- [Semi-evergreen plants](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/semi-evergreen-plants\/ \"Semi-evergreen plants\")\n- [Shrubs](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/shrubs-plants\/ \"Shrubs\")\n- [Trees](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/trees\/ \"Trees\")\n- [Weeds](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plant-profiles\/weeds\/ \"Weeds\")","attrs_readable_markdown":"Summer can be a tough time for plants. During very hot spells, greenhouses and conservatories can become more desert than damp, while containers seem to become dry within hours of watering them.\n\nBy knowing which plants to prioritise, and when to water, you can make the best use of your time by watering those that need it most.\n\nFor example, plants requiring moist conditions, such as [lobelia](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-lobelia\/)*,* or those in greenhouses and containers, need watering significantly more than mature trees, or drought-tolerant shrubs like [cordylines](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/cordyline-australis-red-star\/) and [aeoniums](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/aeonium-arboreum\/).\n\nDiscover [drought-tolerant plants to grow](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/drought-tolerant-plants-to-grow\/) and our list of the [best watering cans](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/product-guides\/accessories\/best-watering-cans\/).\n\nSave time and precious water by following our guide to summer watering, below.\n\n### Water every day or two\nThe top priorities for watering are seedlings, cuttings and young plants, plus anything that's been recently planted. Other thirsty plants are those potted in a greenhouse or conservatory, such as [tomatoes](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-tomatoes\/) and [cucumbers](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-cucumbers\/). Water the trunk of [tree ferns](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-tree-ferns\/) daily to create humidity.\n\n![Watering cucumbers](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/5c1bb929-d39c-4aa4-b58f-f5f7d22459ec-5cc2a69.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nWatering cucumbers growing in pots with a watering can\n\nPlants to water:\n\n- Tomatoes: when flowering and fruits are swelling\n- Cucumbers: when flowering and fruits are swelling\n- [Garden peas](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-peas\/): when pods swell in dry weather\n- Tree ferns: water the trunk daily\n- [*Lobelia cardinalis*](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/lobelia-cardinalis\/): most at home in swamps, so requires moist soil\n### Water once a week\nNext come plants with shallow root systems, including bedding plants and large, thin-leaved subtropical plants and ferns. Bog plants, moisture-loving perennials and many veg crops, like [spinach](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-spinach\/), [lettuce](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-lettuce\/) and [celery](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/celeriac-grow-guide\/), will also suffer if left to dry out.\n\n![Watering spinach](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/177c585e-3a3f-46de-a03a-58fb99aec4a8-f0edd9a.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nWatering young spinach\n\nPlants to water:\n\n- [Brassicas](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/brassicas-vegetables\/): cabbage, [cauliflower](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-cauliflower\/) and [Brussels sprouts](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-brussels-sprouts\/)\n- Lettuce: especially when grown as a cut-and-come crop\n- Spinach: prone to bolting. The crop can be ruined if it becomes dry\n- Celery: needs plenty of moisture. Water twice a week if dry\n- [Hydrangeas](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-hydrangeas\/): these water-lovers wilt quickly\n### Water once a fortnight\nDuring long, dry spells, water plants that can normally fend for themselves, like [clematis](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-clematis\/) and roses, by soaking thoroughly once a fortnight. Also, water [fruit trees on dwarfing rootstocks](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/choosing-a-fruit-tree-rootstock\/), shallow-rooted shrubs like [camellias](), and plantings from last autumn, in this way.\n\n![Clematis](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/0dca779c-cc37-4d5b-aaae-878547f0f416-f03a70c.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nMauve clematis in bloom\n\nPlants to water:\n\n- Roses: dry conditions encourage mildew\n- Ornamental willows: tolerant but will suffer if left dry for long\n- Clematis: these prefer cool roots and hot heads\n- Eupatorium: these start to droop when dry\n- Irises *ensata* and *siberi*c*a*: need lots of water\n### Avoid watering\nParts of the garden can be left unwatered to reduce dependence on irrigation and allow tough plants like verbascums to thrive. Don't water mature trees, shrubs and hedges – it's a waste. Lawns may also be left unwatered – if it goes brown, it will recover when rain arrives.\n\n![Verbascum](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/c39025f5-4f3b-40b5-9e3e-a64d0fb65288-cf6dc5e.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466)\n\nTall spires of pale, orange-yellow verbascum flowers\n\nPlants to leave:\n\n- Cordylines: tough leaves retain their moisture\n- Verbascums: thrives in dry soil where others can't cope\n- Periwinkles: born survivors, they thrive on neglect\n- Aeoniums: [succulent](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/best-succulents-to-grow\/) leaves store enough moisture to live\n- Agaves: infrequent rain is all that's needed\n\n#### Save water\nIn hot spells, save water however you can - read our guide to [saving water in the garden](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/save-water-in-the-garden\/).\n\n![](https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/2742608c-7097-4c93-a1bb-010d7e96dedd-98f1080.png?quality=90&resize=767,697)\n## Some of the best drought-resistant plants\n- [Alliums](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/alliums-grow-guide\/)\n- Ballota\n- [Euphorbia](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/house-plants\/how-to-grow-euphorbia\/)\n- [Gaura](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-gaura\/)\n- Helianthemum\n- [Nepeta](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-catmint\/)\n- [Santolina](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/santolina-chamaecyparissus\/)\n- [Sedum](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-sedums\/)\n- Stachys\n- [Stipa](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-stipa-tenuissima\/)\n- [Thyme](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/how-to\/grow-plants\/how-to-grow-thyme\/)\n- [Verbena](https:\/\/www.gardenersworld.com\/plants\/verbena-bonariensis\/)","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Garden Guide To Summer Watering \| BBC Gardeners World Magazine
Meta Description	Find out which plants need the most watering in summer, and which ones can cope without it, with advice from the experts at BBC Gardeners' World Magazine.
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Boilerpipe Text	Summer can be a tough time for plants. During very hot spells, greenhouses and conservatories can become more desert than damp, while containers seem to become dry within hours of watering them. By knowing which plants to prioritise, and when to water, you can make the best use of your time by watering those that need it most. For example, plants requiring moist conditions, such as lobelia , or those in greenhouses and containers, need watering significantly more than mature trees, or drought-tolerant shrubs like cordylines and aeoniums . Discover drought-tolerant plants to grow and our list of the best watering cans . Save time and precious water by following our guide to summer watering, below. Water every day or two The top priorities for watering are seedlings, cuttings and young plants, plus anything that's been recently planted. Other thirsty plants are those potted in a greenhouse or conservatory, such as tomatoes and cucumbers . Water the trunk of tree ferns daily to create humidity. Watering cucumbers growing in pots with a watering can Plants to water: Tomatoes: when flowering and fruits are swelling Cucumbers: when flowering and fruits are swelling Garden peas : when pods swell in dry weather Tree ferns: water the trunk daily Lobelia cardinalis : most at home in swamps, so requires moist soil Water once a week Next come plants with shallow root systems, including bedding plants and large, thin-leaved subtropical plants and ferns. Bog plants, moisture-loving perennials and many veg crops, like spinach , lettuce and celery , will also suffer if left to dry out. Watering young spinach Plants to water: Brassicas : cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts Lettuce: especially when grown as a cut-and-come crop Spinach: prone to bolting. The crop can be ruined if it becomes dry Celery: needs plenty of moisture. Water twice a week if dry Hydrangeas : these water-lovers wilt quickly Water once a fortnight During long, dry spells, water plants that can normally fend for themselves, like clematis and roses, by soaking thoroughly once a fortnight. Also, water fruit trees on dwarfing rootstocks , shallow-rooted shrubs like camellias , and plantings from last autumn, in this way. Mauve clematis in bloom Plants to water: Roses: dry conditions encourage mildew Ornamental willows: tolerant but will suffer if left dry for long Clematis: these prefer cool roots and hot heads Eupatorium: these start to droop when dry Irises ensata and siberi c a : need lots of water Avoid watering Parts of the garden can be left unwatered to reduce dependence on irrigation and allow tough plants like verbascums to thrive. Don't water mature trees, shrubs and hedges – it's a waste. Lawns may also be left unwatered – if it goes brown, it will recover when rain arrives. Tall spires of pale, orange-yellow verbascum flowers Plants to leave: Cordylines: tough leaves retain their moisture Verbascums: thrives in dry soil where others can't cope Periwinkles: born survivors, they thrive on neglect Aeoniums: succulent leaves store enough moisture to live Agaves: infrequent rain is all that's needed Save water In hot spells, save water however you can - read our guide to saving water in the garden . Some of the best drought-resistant plants Alliums Ballota Euphorbia Gaura Helianthemum Nepeta Santolina Sedum Stachys Stipa Thyme Verbena
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Find out which plants to focus your efforts on during hot weather. Save - [Share on facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/) - [Share on twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering%0A%0A&url=https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/) - [Share on pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/&media=https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/a1b03326-1af0-4ae2-803c-a7bd420182f6-fd7b56f.jpg&description=Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering) - [Share on whatsapp](whatsapp://send?text=%22Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering%22%20https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/) - [Share on blogger](https://www.blogger.com/blog-this.g?u=https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/&n=Garden%20guide%20to%20summer%20watering) - [Email to a friend](<mailto:?subject=Oh look...&body=Saw this and thought of you...%0A%0Ahttps://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/guide-to-summer-watering/>) Summer can be a tough time for plants. During very hot spells, greenhouses and conservatories can become more desert than damp, while containers seem to become dry within hours of watering them. Ad By knowing which plants to prioritise, and when to water, you can make the best use of your time by watering those that need it most. For example, plants requiring moist conditions, such as [lobelia](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-lobelia/), or those in greenhouses and containers, need watering significantly more than mature trees, or drought-tolerant shrubs like [cordylines](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/cordyline-australis-red-star/) and [aeoniums](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/aeonium-arboreum/). Discover [drought-tolerant plants to grow](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/drought-tolerant-plants-to-grow/) and our list of the [best watering cans](https://www.gardenersworld.com/product-guides/accessories/best-watering-cans/). Save time and precious water by following our guide to summer watering, below. ### Water every day or two The top priorities for watering are seedlings, cuttings and young plants, plus anything that's been recently planted. Other thirsty plants are those potted in a greenhouse or conservatory, such as [tomatoes](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-tomatoes/) and [cucumbers](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-cucumbers/). Water the trunk of [tree ferns](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-tree-ferns/) daily to create humidity. ![Watering cucumbers](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/5c1bb929-d39c-4aa4-b58f-f5f7d22459ec-5cc2a69.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Watering cucumbers growing in pots with a watering can Plants to water: - Tomatoes: when flowering and fruits are swelling - Cucumbers: when flowering and fruits are swelling - [Garden peas](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-peas/): when pods swell in dry weather - Tree ferns: water the trunk daily - [Lobelia cardinalis](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/lobelia-cardinalis/): most at home in swamps, so requires moist soil ### Water once a week Next come plants with shallow root systems, including bedding plants and large, thin-leaved subtropical plants and ferns. Bog plants, moisture-loving perennials and many veg crops, like [spinach](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-spinach/), [lettuce](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-lettuce/) and [celery](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/celeriac-grow-guide/), will also suffer if left to dry out. ![Watering spinach](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/177c585e-3a3f-46de-a03a-58fb99aec4a8-f0edd9a.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Watering young spinach Plants to water: - [Brassicas](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/brassicas-vegetables/): cabbage, [cauliflower](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-cauliflower/) and [Brussels sprouts](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-brussels-sprouts/) - Lettuce: especially when grown as a cut-and-come crop - Spinach: prone to bolting. The crop can be ruined if it becomes dry - Celery: needs plenty of moisture. Water twice a week if dry - [Hydrangeas](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-hydrangeas/): these water-lovers wilt quickly ### Water once a fortnight During long, dry spells, water plants that can normally fend for themselves, like [clematis](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-clematis/) and roses, by soaking thoroughly once a fortnight. Also, water [fruit trees on dwarfing rootstocks](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/choosing-a-fruit-tree-rootstock/), shallow-rooted shrubs like [camellias](), and plantings from last autumn, in this way. ![Clematis](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/0dca779c-cc37-4d5b-aaae-878547f0f416-f03a70c.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Mauve clematis in bloom Plants to water: - Roses: dry conditions encourage mildew - Ornamental willows: tolerant but will suffer if left dry for long - Clematis: these prefer cool roots and hot heads - Eupatorium: these start to droop when dry - Irises ensata and siberica: need lots of water ### Avoid watering Parts of the garden can be left unwatered to reduce dependence on irrigation and allow tough plants like verbascums to thrive. Don't water mature trees, shrubs and hedges – it's a waste. Lawns may also be left unwatered – if it goes brown, it will recover when rain arrives. ![Verbascum](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/c39025f5-4f3b-40b5-9e3e-a64d0fb65288-cf6dc5e.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Tall spires of pale, orange-yellow verbascum flowers Plants to leave: - Cordylines: tough leaves retain their moisture - Verbascums: thrives in dry soil where others can't cope - Periwinkles: born survivors, they thrive on neglect - Aeoniums: [succulent](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/best-succulents-to-grow/) leaves store enough moisture to live - Agaves: infrequent rain is all that's needed Ad #### Save water In hot spells, save water however you can - read our guide to [saving water in the garden](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/save-water-in-the-garden/). ![](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/2742608c-7097-4c93-a1bb-010d7e96dedd-98f1080.png?quality=90&resize=767,697) ## Some of the best drought-resistant plants - [Alliums](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/alliums-grow-guide/) - Ballota - [Euphorbia](https://www.gardenersworld.com/house-plants/how-to-grow-euphorbia/) - [Gaura](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-gaura/) - Helianthemum - [Nepeta](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-catmint/) - [Santolina](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/santolina-chamaecyparissus/) - [Sedum](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-sedums/) - Stachys - [Stipa](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-stipa-tenuissima/) - [Thyme](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-thyme/) - [Verbena](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/verbena-bonariensis/) #### Offers from Gardeners' World [2 for 1 Gardens guide](https://bit.ly/4nEQGQc) £6.99 [SAVE 25%](https://bit.ly/3PvlzLh) [Sunflower and Salvia Summer Collection](https://bit.ly/3PvlzLh) £31.39£41.85 Supplied as 4 x 9cm pots (1 of each variety) ###### use code: GWMAY2026 [BOGOF](https://bit.ly/3Q0dVZO) [Strawberry ’Sweet Summer’](https://bit.ly/3Q0dVZO) £14.99£29.98 Supplied as 12 x runners plus 12 more for FREE\! ## Sponsored content Ad Ad [Get the best blooms all summer](https://www.gardenersworld.com/subscribe/?utm_source=fabric&utm_medium=brandsite&utm_campaign=summer-2026&utm_content=sidebar-widget) Subscribe today for expert advice, summer-ready inspiration and trusted gardening tips, delivered to your door – enjoy 3 months for £9.99 when you subscribe now. 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Readable Markdown	Summer can be a tough time for plants. During very hot spells, greenhouses and conservatories can become more desert than damp, while containers seem to become dry within hours of watering them. By knowing which plants to prioritise, and when to water, you can make the best use of your time by watering those that need it most. For example, plants requiring moist conditions, such as [lobelia](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-lobelia/), or those in greenhouses and containers, need watering significantly more than mature trees, or drought-tolerant shrubs like [cordylines](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/cordyline-australis-red-star/) and [aeoniums](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/aeonium-arboreum/). Discover [drought-tolerant plants to grow](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/drought-tolerant-plants-to-grow/) and our list of the [best watering cans](https://www.gardenersworld.com/product-guides/accessories/best-watering-cans/). Save time and precious water by following our guide to summer watering, below. ### Water every day or two The top priorities for watering are seedlings, cuttings and young plants, plus anything that's been recently planted. Other thirsty plants are those potted in a greenhouse or conservatory, such as [tomatoes](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-tomatoes/) and [cucumbers](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-cucumbers/). Water the trunk of [tree ferns](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-tree-ferns/) daily to create humidity. ![Watering cucumbers](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/5c1bb929-d39c-4aa4-b58f-f5f7d22459ec-5cc2a69.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Watering cucumbers growing in pots with a watering can Plants to water: - Tomatoes: when flowering and fruits are swelling - Cucumbers: when flowering and fruits are swelling - [Garden peas](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-peas/): when pods swell in dry weather - Tree ferns: water the trunk daily - [Lobelia cardinalis](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/lobelia-cardinalis/): most at home in swamps, so requires moist soil ### Water once a week Next come plants with shallow root systems, including bedding plants and large, thin-leaved subtropical plants and ferns. Bog plants, moisture-loving perennials and many veg crops, like [spinach](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-spinach/), [lettuce](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-lettuce/) and [celery](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/celeriac-grow-guide/), will also suffer if left to dry out. ![Watering spinach](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/177c585e-3a3f-46de-a03a-58fb99aec4a8-f0edd9a.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Watering young spinach Plants to water: - [Brassicas](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/brassicas-vegetables/): cabbage, [cauliflower](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-cauliflower/) and [Brussels sprouts](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-brussels-sprouts/) - Lettuce: especially when grown as a cut-and-come crop - Spinach: prone to bolting. The crop can be ruined if it becomes dry - Celery: needs plenty of moisture. Water twice a week if dry - [Hydrangeas](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-hydrangeas/): these water-lovers wilt quickly ### Water once a fortnight During long, dry spells, water plants that can normally fend for themselves, like [clematis](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-clematis/) and roses, by soaking thoroughly once a fortnight. Also, water [fruit trees on dwarfing rootstocks](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/choosing-a-fruit-tree-rootstock/), shallow-rooted shrubs like [camellias](), and plantings from last autumn, in this way. ![Clematis](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/0dca779c-cc37-4d5b-aaae-878547f0f416-f03a70c.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Mauve clematis in bloom Plants to water: - Roses: dry conditions encourage mildew - Ornamental willows: tolerant but will suffer if left dry for long - Clematis: these prefer cool roots and hot heads - Eupatorium: these start to droop when dry - Irises ensata and siberica: need lots of water ### Avoid watering Parts of the garden can be left unwatered to reduce dependence on irrigation and allow tough plants like verbascums to thrive. Don't water mature trees, shrubs and hedges – it's a waste. Lawns may also be left unwatered – if it goes brown, it will recover when rain arrives. ![Verbascum](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/c39025f5-4f3b-40b5-9e3e-a64d0fb65288-cf6dc5e.jpg?quality=90&fit=700,466) Tall spires of pale, orange-yellow verbascum flowers Plants to leave: - Cordylines: tough leaves retain their moisture - Verbascums: thrives in dry soil where others can't cope - Periwinkles: born survivors, they thrive on neglect - Aeoniums: [succulent](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/best-succulents-to-grow/) leaves store enough moisture to live - Agaves: infrequent rain is all that's needed #### Save water In hot spells, save water however you can - read our guide to [saving water in the garden](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/save-water-in-the-garden/). ![](https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/10/2018/02/2742608c-7097-4c93-a1bb-010d7e96dedd-98f1080.png?quality=90&resize=767,697) ## Some of the best drought-resistant plants - [Alliums](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/alliums-grow-guide/) - Ballota - [Euphorbia](https://www.gardenersworld.com/house-plants/how-to-grow-euphorbia/) - [Gaura](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-gaura/) - Helianthemum - [Nepeta](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-catmint/) - [Santolina](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/santolina-chamaecyparissus/) - [Sedum](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-sedums/) - Stachys - [Stipa](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-stipa-tenuissima/) - [Thyme](https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-thyme/) - [Verbena](https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/verbena-bonariensis/)
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