The scorching summer heat has taken its toll on many plants, leaving some struggling to survive and others resiliently bouncing back. As the leaves of some plants have faded or shrivelled, it's a sign that they've been scorched by the sun or wind. But don't despair just yet! There are ways to tell if your plant is still alive and some plants that are more likely to survive the heat. Here's a breakdown of the survivors and strugglers, along with some expert tips on how to care for your plants during this challenging time.
Survivors
Aubrieta
Aubrieta is a resilient plant that has been a cottage garden favourite for centuries. It has an inherent ability to survive, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a plant that can withstand the heat. With its green leaves and vibrant flowers, Aubrieta is likely to bounce back and thrive.
Delphiniums
Delphiniums are tall, beautiful plants with spires of flowers in a variety of colours. They have great fleshy root stock, making them more likely to survive than other weaker-rooted cottage garden plants. These plants can withstand the scorching summer heat and will likely come back next year.
Shrubs
Shrubs, such as philadelphus, weigela, and deutzia, are usually pretty good at hanging on through dry periods. They have evolved to grow in difficult places and often have wilted leaves, but they usually come back. It's important not to cut them back too much, as this can leave them more vulnerable. Instead, wait and hope for some rain to restore them.
Roses
Established roses will usually survive being scorched by UK summer heatwaves. Despite presenting drooping stems, faded foliage, and scorched petals, these tough plants enter a temporary survival mode by slowing down the production of new growth or flowers. If the graft is still alive, the rose should survive. Water well late evening and lay a good layer of mulch around the base of the plant. Avoid removing scorched leaves until conditions improve, as they can still provide some shade to the base of the plant.
Crocosmia
Crocosmia, with its fiery coloured sword-like leaves, may have been scorched easily, but the RHS says that the damage is likely to be superficial. These tough, drought-tolerant plants are likely to come back next year. So, if you see some scorched leaves, don't worry too much!
Strugglers
Hollyhocks
Hollyhocks and lupins are cottage garden favourites, but they haven't got much of a root, making them less likely to survive the scorching summer heat. These plants are more vulnerable to the harsh conditions and may not come back.
Camellias
Camellias, which have evolved on the damp, soft forest floor, are much less able to resist prolonged dry periods compared with those that have evolved on hillsides, like brooms. These shrubs are more susceptible to the scorching summer heat and may struggle to survive.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are known to be thirsty plants and are also fibrous rooted, making them less able to withstand drying out. They are more vulnerable to the scorching summer heat and may not survive. It's best to avoid planting them on a south-facing slope, where they would get baked. Instead, consider planting them on a north-facing slope where they are out of the worst of the sun.
Small Evergreen Conifers in Pots
Small evergreen conifers, such as Cupressus macrocarpa, are often used to add height to a container. However, if you notice that their needles have gone brown through scorch or wind damage, you're likely to have to start again. These plants tend not to regrow from older wood and lack the resilience that shrubs have.
Japanese Maples
Japanese maples are famously vulnerable to drying out, so it's important to plant them where the wind can't get at them and make sure they're in shade for part of the day. If you're worried about the plant's health, put up some shade netting over some posts around the plant to keep some of the stress off it.
In conclusion, the scorching summer heat has tested the resilience of many plants, but some are more likely to survive than others. By identifying the survivors and strugglers, you can take the necessary steps to care for your plants and ensure their survival during this challenging time. Remember, some plants will come back, while others may not, so it's important to be prepared and take action to protect your garden.
