WATER GOOD IDEA
We only had a third of the traditional rainfall
in April, and May has been dry so far too – apart a from a few showers on Wednesday. Whilst it’s great to work in dry weather, it’s obviously not so good for gardens – or wildlife. w
Most people underestimate the amount of water plants need. Often if something is “struggling”, it will simply be a lack of water – especially e when newly planted.
It is essential to keep vulnerable plants well watered and that will include veggies too. I see a lot of people full of enthusiasm at the beginning b of the season but they soon start
to wane and watering is the first thing to be abandoned. a
It’s the mindset that is important, if you see it as a chore, you will soon find reasons not to do d it but it can actually be quite relaxing and meditative – and just like meditation, best done first thing in the morning and last thing
in the evening.
As well as taking care of your plants, please put out water for wildlife.
Hedgehogs are going into rescue centres now suffering from dehydration and it is so easily avoided by simply making sure they have access to fresh drinking water.
Hard working birds will also appreciate a reliable supply of drinking water, and also water to bath in – a bird bath is such a good present for anyone with a garden or even a balcony.
The entertainment value is as rewording for us as the bath is for them.
Bees also need a regular supply of shallow drinking water. They can’t drink from deep water as the surface tension won’t hold them and they need little shallow or boggy drinking holes. A big saucer or plant pot drip tray is ideal with a few stones and leaves included for them to stand on to drink.