10.07.2026
With drip irrigation, gardens can be watered precisely even during dry spells. It can be adapted – ideally using smart technology – conveniently and easily to individual requirements.
Too infrequent and far too little: rain is currently in short supply. There are increasing signs that the temporary dry spell is turning into a prolonged drought. This poses a real challenge for local flora, which relies on a regular supply of water.
Plants, soil and lawns are not just a green, flowering backdrop. They make a crucial contribution to a healthy climate. Through evaporation, plants cool their surroundings, provide shade and improve the microclimate on hot days. At the same time, green spaces increase the soil’s absorption and storage capacity – an important factor when heavy rain sets in following dry spells. Sealed or dried-out soils are often unable to absorb these volumes of water, which increases the risk of flooding. Furthermore, the soil is home to many insects and microorganisms that are a vital component of biodiversity.
Plants and soil need water to fulfil their vital functions in the long term. Regular and targeted watering is crucial, particularly during long dry spells, to ensure that plants, lawns and soil do not suffer permanent damage. As towns and local authorities are increasingly having to prioritise water resources, regional restrictions on garden watering may apply. This makes it more important to use water wisely. Here are a few simple tips for targeted watering:
- It is better to water thoroughly and vigorously once every few days than to water just a little every day. The latter causes plants to spread their roots only at the surface instead of growing deeper.
- The most effective time to water is in the morning, when the cooled soil can absorb the water better.
- In the long term, collect rainwater in barrels or cisterns and use it for watering during dry spells. The water can then be delivered precisely to the roots of the plants using drip irrigation. Watering becomes particularly smart when an irrigation controller is combined with a smart sensor. The sensor measures the moisture in the soil. If the soil is moist enough, the scheduled watering is suspended, avoiding unnecessary watering. For even greater precision, local weather forecasts can also be incorporated into the watering plan. This ensures water is used wisely, not just during long dry spells.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch (grass clippings, leaves or mature compost) to perennial and vegetable beds to retain moisture and promote soil health and soil life. You can also extend the time between watering your lawn if you leave fine grass clippings on the grass.
- Consciously choosing drought-tolerant plants such as cranesbill, lavender or coneflower reduces the garden’s water requirements from the outset.
“During prolonged periods of drought, it is essential to care for plants in such a way that they survive the dry spell unscathed – whilst at the same time using water intelligently. It is crucial that every drop reaches exactly where the plant can absorb it. Drop by drop, without waste,” explains GARDENA.
About Gardena
For over 50 years Gardena has provided everything passionate gardeners need. The broad assortment of products offers innovative solutions and systems for watering, lawn care, tree and shrub care and soil cultivation. Today, Gardena is a leading European supplier of high-quality gardening tools and distributed in more than 100 countries worldwide. Gardena is a brand of Husqvarna Group. Gardena Division has 3,110 employees worldwide. Further information on gardena.com.