We have some tips here on looking after your garden in a heatwave: Most importantly, water your garden at the right time of day. The best time is first thing in the morning but if this isn’t possible then opt for early evening. Try to avoid watering in the middle of the day. Watering in the morning helps to prevent against your plant leaves being scalded in the hot sun. Potted plants will need even more water and may need to be watered twice a day during extreme heat, once in the morning and once in the evening. Aim the water for the soil around the plants and not the leaves themselves. Any new plants should be given particular attention to help them establish. A water butt is a great way to use water efficiently in your garden so if you don’t have one already it is definitely something to consider. Adding bark or compost to your beds will provide a damp layer of insulation to lock in moisture and help to prevent soil from drying out. If possible move your pots into the shade. You can also buy shade covers for your plants and beds from garden centres. When putting these down take care that they do block the sunlight but that they don’t reduce aeration. Don’t cut your lawn quite as short during the really hot weather as the longer grass casts shadows that help the soil to retain moisture. Keep it around 3”. During a heatwave is not the time to add fertilisers to your lawn as the roots aren’t as able to absorb the nutrients as well so wait until the weather cools down to do this. Leave your soil alone as disturbing it will only get rid of moisture. Finally, look after yourself too. Grab a chair, a cold drink and enjoy the summer in your garden!
What is Softwood Decking
What is softwood decking? Softwood decking is a very popular choice with our clients when installing a decking project. It is beautiful and hardwearing and a more cost-effective choice than hardwood or composite decking. It is made from fast growing evergreen or coniferous trees leading to lower cost levels. The most common softwoods come from evergreen conifers like pine or spruce. The wood fibres are tightly packed together and this structure gives the boards the strength and durability needed to last. All the softwood decking that we install is pressure treated. This means that the wood has gone through a process that uses high pressure to force a solution of water and preservative agents deep into the wood. The decking is then less susceptible to rot and moisture and helps keeps insects at bay. Pressure treated wood is extremely durable and will last much longer than non-treated wood. As with any structure you need to carry out maintenance by cleaning your decking area regularly and treating with a decking oil once or twice a year to ensure that your decking continues to look great and last a long time. A penetrating oil finish is perfect for softwoods. Most oils are clear but you can get tinted wood oils and the decking can be stained to give you a choice of colours to match a garden project. The softwood decking that we install on our projects gives you the choice of a smooth or grooved finish. We work with suppliers who ensure their timber is sourced from sustainable, well-managed forests. If you have any questions or would like to discuss a decking project please get in touch via email office@eastlondonlandscapes.com or call 020 3633 6413.
