12.08.2025
Drip irrigation waters directly at the root, exactly where the plant absorbs water. Watering becomes even smarter and more precise when combined with a smart sensor. By measuring soil moisture and combining this with local weather forecasts, watering only takes place when the plants really need it. This means that water is used efficiently, not just during long periods of drought.
Whether trees, shrubs, fruit or vegetable plants: through the evaporation of water via their foliage, they create a pleasant microclimate and provide cool, shaded areas in summer. In addition, planted areas facilitate water absorption and storage in the soil, which plays a crucial role in the increase in extreme weather conditions. When heat and drought are followed by heavy rain, sealed or dried-out soil cannot absorb the water or allow it to evaporate and cool the ground.
But how can we take care of these valuable green spaces and ensure that the plants are not damaged during prolonged periods of drought? Regular watering is therefore essential, as water is the indispensable elixir of life for every plant to thrive.
Especially in times of prolonged drought, cities and municipalities are faced with the challenge of prioritising the use of water resources. In some regions, temporary restrictions on watering gardens may therefore be imposed to ensure the drinking water supply. This makes it even more important to use smart irrigation solutions, protect the soil from evaporation by mulching and collect rainwater wherever possible. In this way, green retreats can be preserved even in dry periods.
What can you do to get your garden plants through rainless days in hot weather?
Garden plants that require regular watering during dry periods should be surrounded by a watering rim formed from the soil. This allows the water to reach the roots directly. If perennials are suffering from drought, you should act quickly and water them in the early morning hours if possible. This reduces evaporation. It is important not to just water the surface, but to ensure that the water penetrates deep into the soil. A layer of mulch made from grass clippings or sheep's wool also helps to prevent the water from evaporating too quickly from the soil surface.
In addition to first aid measures, it is important to be proactive when it comes to heat stress and drought. Plants can be trained to cope with less moisture. It is better to water less often but more thoroughly. Otherwise, the plants will only form superficial roots and are dependent on frequent watering.
Once you've hoed, you've watered three times – that's true in the vegetable patch. Hoing the soil between the plants interrupts capillary action, so less water evaporates and stays in the soil. Using automatic watering solutions can also help to ensure that water is used even more precisely to maintain green areas. GARDENA explains: ‘Responsible water use starts in your own garden – especially in times of increasing weather extremes. Practical irrigation controls allow water to be used in a targeted manner so that plants are well cared for even when you are not there or when prolonged drought and heat are putting a strain on nature. Thisnot only makes your garden more resilient to weather extremes, but also more sustainable.’
The Gardena eBook "Clever watering" and www.gardena.com/cleverwatering provide further information on efficient water utilisation.
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 3,450 employees worldwide. Further information on gardena.com.