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Plus: Smart Jobs to Tackle When It’s Too Dry to Mow the Lawn
Long, dry spells are fast becoming a staple of the British summer. The grass turns brown, borders start to struggle, and your watering can feels permanently attached to your hand. But here’s the good news: a dry garden doesn’t have to be a neglected one.
At Greenstripe, we believe the best gardens are those that work with the seasons; not against them. So, whether you're looking to protect your plants during a drought, or wondering what to do when it’s too dry to mow, this guide has you covered.
1. Water Smarter, Not Harder
When water is in short supply, making the most of every drop is essential. Here’s how:
- Water deeply and less often: Aim for two or three good soakings a week. It encourages deeper root growth, which helps plants become more drought resistant.
- Choose your timing: Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
- Go for the roots: Use a watering can, hose with spray gun, or drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the base of your plants - not the foliage.
Top tip: Don’t spread yourself too thin. Focus on newly planted trees, shrubs, veg crops, and container plants. Most established plants - and even brown lawns - will bounce back once rain returns.
2. Mulch to Lock in Moisture
One of the most effective ways to protect your soil from the sun? A generous layer of mulch.
- Add a 5–10 cm layer of mulch (such as bark chips, grass clippings, compost, or well-rotted manure) around plants and over exposed soil.
- Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature - vital when the heat’s on.
- If you didn’t mulch in spring, it’s not too late. Topping up now can make a big difference.
3. Give Trees and Shrubs Extra Support
Established trees may cope well with dry conditions, but younger ones need help to thrive.
- Use a slow soak method: let water trickle gradually into the root zone.
- A simple DIY hack: upturn a plastic bottle with pinholes near the base of the plant for a slow, steady drip.
- Always mulch generously, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk or main stems to prevent rot.
4. Maximise Every Drop of Water
In hot weather, every drop counts, so make sure you're not losing more than you need to.
- Install water butts to capture rainwater from roofs and gutters. It’s free, eco-friendly, and perfect for plants.
- Use soaker hoses or drip lines for efficient watering, especially in borders.
- Recycle grey water from washing up, showers or baths - just avoid anything with harsh chemicals or bleach.
What to Do When It’s Too Dry to Mow the Lawn
During prolonged dry spells, it’s best to avoid mowing altogether; cutting dry, brittle grass can cause lasting damage. But there’s still plenty to keep your garden (and you) busy and productive.
Tidy Up the Borders
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage repeat flowering.
- Lightly trim straggly perennials to maintain shape.
- Remove dry or unsightly foliage to give beds a lift.
Get on Top of Weeds
- Dry soil makes hoeing a breeze - slicing off young weeds at the root.
- Fewer weeds = less competition for precious water.
Clean, Sharpen & Service Your Equipment
- Take advantage of the downtime to care for your tools.
- Sharpen mower blades, clean filters, change spark plugs and check for wear.
- Consider booking in a service for your mower, hedge trimmer or blower - beat the autumn rush.
Book a professional machine service
Turn Your Compost
- Dry weather is great for aerating your compost heap.
- Mix in green and brown material to maintain balance, and give it a light water if it’s looking dusty.
Final Thoughts: Make Every Season Count
Dry weather doesn’t have to be downtime. With the right approach, it’s a golden opportunity to care for your garden in new ways - improving plant resilience, planning ahead, and getting your tools in top shape.
At Greenstripe, we’re here to help you grow a garden that thrives year-round, whatever the weather.
