We're delighted to partner with Gates Garden Centre to share expert advice on caring for your newly planted garden during the hottest part of the year. From effective watering techniques and mulching tips to spotting signs of stress and encouraging healthy growth, this guide will help you give your plants the best possible start.
Caring for Your Newly Planted Garden Through the Summer
Moving into a new home is an exciting time. Whether you've inherited a blank canvas or recently planted your first shrubs, trees and borders, summer is a crucial season for helping your new garden establish and thrive.
Newly planted gardens need a little extra care during their first year, especially through warm, dry weather. The good news is that with some simple maintenance, your plants can develop strong roots and reward you with healthy growth for years to come.
Watering is Key
The most important job in a newly planted garden is watering. Unlike established plants, new trees, shrubs and perennials have limited root systems and cannot search for moisture deep in the soil.
During dry spells:
Water thoroughly rather than little and often.
Aim to soak the root area rather than wetting the leaves.
Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation.
Newly planted trees and larger shrubs may require 10–20 litres of water once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.
A good deep watering encourages roots to grow down into the soil, making plants more resilient in future summers.
Mulch to Retain Moisture
Applying a layer of mulch around plants is one of the best things you can do for a new garden.
Organic mulches such as bark, compost or well-rotted manure help to:
Reduce water loss from the soil.
Suppress weeds.
Improve soil quality over time.
Keep roots cooler during hot weather.
Apply a layer approximately 5cm deep around plants, keeping it clear of stems and trunks.
Keep on Top of Weeds
Weeds compete with your new plants for water and nutrients, which can slow establishment.
A quick weekly walk around the garden to remove weeds by hand or with a hoe will make a big difference. It's much easier to tackle weeds when they are small rather than letting them become established.
Feed for Healthy Growth
Many new-build gardens have soils that have been disturbed during construction, which can leave them lacking nutrients.
A balanced slow-release fertiliser applied according to the manufacturer's instructions can help support healthy growth. Avoid overfeeding, as this can encourage soft growth that is more vulnerable to drought stress.
Look After Your Lawn
Newly laid turf and young lawns need special attention during their first summer.
Water regularly during dry weather.
Avoid cutting the grass too short.
Raise the mower height during hot periods to help the lawn retain moisture.
Try to avoid excessive foot traffic while the lawn is establishing.
A slightly longer lawn is healthier and more drought-tolerant than one cut very short.
Check Trees and Stakes
If your garden includes newly planted trees, inspect ties and stakes regularly.
Tree ties should be firm enough to support the tree but not so tight that they damage the trunk. Adjust them if necessary and ensure the tree remains upright after windy weather.
Be Patient
One of the biggest surprises for new gardeners is that plants often spend their first year establishing roots rather than producing lots of top growth. The old gardening saying is:
First year they sleep.
Second year they creep.
Third year they leap.
Don't be discouraged if your plants seem slow to get going. With regular watering and a little care, they are building the foundations for years of healthy growth.
Need Advice?
Every garden is different, and factors such as soil type, exposure and plant selection can affect how much care is needed. If you're unsure about watering, feeding or choosing plants for your garden, our horticultural team is always happy to help.
With a little attention during the summer months, your newly planted garden will soon become a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy for years to come.
Gates Garden Centre
Somerby Road | Cold Overton | Oakham | Leicestershire | LE15 7QB
