In many parts of Europe and North America, summers are becoming increasingly hot and dry, and water is turning into a resource we can no longer afford to waste. Gardeners who once watered freely are now facing unprecedented challenges due to climate change, including prolonged droughts and hosepipe bans. With these changes, wise water usage is no longer just a gardening tip — it’s a necessity. The way we water our gardens can make all the difference, not only for the health of our plants but for the sustainability of our environment.
Efficient watering starts with soil preparation. Before planting, enriching the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure can significantly improve its ability to retain both moisture and nutrients. Adding a layer of organic mulch — such as wood chips, straw, or compost — helps reduce evaporation and keeps the soil temperature stable, a method especially valuable in hot, dry climates.
Planning your planting layout also plays a crucial role in conserving water. Grouping plants with similar watering needs together helps you irrigate more efficiently and allows for targeted mulching around the base of each group, minimizing water runoff. For instance, drought-tolerant herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme can thrive in the same bed, while thirstier crops like lettuce, cucumbers, and pumpkins should be planted in areas where water access is easier and more frequent.
Young or recently transplanted plants are especially vulnerable to heat stress and require extra attention. Whenever possible, aim to plant between autumn and early spring, giving roots time to establish before the summer heat arrives. Timing your watering is just as essential. Watering in the early morning or late evening reduces evaporation and allows plants to absorb moisture more effectively.
When it comes to method, watering cans offer a level of precision that hoses and sprinkler systems simply can’t match. Directing water to the base of plants instead of their leaves minimizes waste, prevents fungal disease, and reduces the risk of foliage burn under intense sunlight. For larger plants, creating shallow basins around the base can help channel water directly to the roots and encourage deeper penetration.
During dry spells, it's vital to prioritize water for the plants that need it most. Mature plants in open ground often require little additional watering if their root systems are well-established. However, seedlings, newly transplanted crops, and young trees or shrubs (especially those under two years old) should be watered regularly, ideally once a week between March and October during dry conditions. Leafy vegetables and fruiting crops also require consistent hydration to thrive.
Container gardening comes with its own set of challenges. Potted plants, particularly those in terracotta pots or positioned in rain shadows near buildings, dry out much faster. Because terracotta is porous, water seeps through the sides and base, requiring more frequent checks. A good rule of thumb is to use your finger to test moisture a few centimeters below the surface — if it’s dry, water is needed. You can also lift pots after watering to get a sense of their “fully hydrated” weight, helping you judge when to water again.
Collecting and reusing rainwater is a low-effort, high-reward strategy. Attaching water butts to downpipes on sheds, greenhouses, and rooftops allows you to capture and store free, untreated water that’s often better for plants than tap water. During dry periods, stored rainwater becomes an essential resource. You can also place trays under pots to catch runoff or bury inverted bottles and terracotta ollas to slowly release water into the soil.
Greywater from household sources — such as bathwater, shower runoff, or dishwashing water — can also be repurposed for garden use, particularly for established plants in borders. Provided the water isn’t laden with harsh chemicals or disinfectants, it's a practical way to extend your water use. Simply bucket out the water or siphon it directly to the garden using a hose.
Wind is another major factor in water loss. Harsh breezes can strip moisture from leaves and accelerate transpiration. Shield your plants with windbreaks made from hedges, trellised vines, or rows of herbs. For example, tall plants like corn can offer natural shade and wind protection to smaller, more delicate crops.
Urban gardeners can take things a step further by greening up hard surfaces. Creating a “living roof” with low-maintenance, drought-tolerant species like sedum, sempervivum, or wild strawberries transforms shed roofs, bin screens, and bike storage into miniature eco-habitats. These plants are shallow-rooted, thrive in dry conditions, and help absorb rainfall, reducing runoff and flood risk.
In naturally dry or gravel-rich regions, a gravel garden is a sustainable and beautiful alternative to traditional lawns. Use locally sourced gravel or eco-friendly aggregates to create a low-maintenance space filled with heat-loving, drought-tolerant species such as salvia, cistus, yucca, artemisia, perovskia, and santolina. Many of these plants have silver-toned or leathery leaves, which reflect sunlight and conserve water.
Consider perennial vegetables as well — asparagus, artichokes, and perennial kale, for example — as they generally need less watering and maintenance over time. Their long-lived root systems help them access deeper moisture, making them ideal for unpredictable weather patterns.
Gardening may seem like a small personal act, but in a world grappling with the consequences of climate change, it becomes a quiet form of resistance. By using water wisely, choosing climate-appropriate plants, and rethinking our relationship with natural resources, we can grow thriving gardens that are not only beautiful but sustainable.
Every drop of water matters. Every plant that flourishes under mindful care becomes a testament to resilience — and a reminder that even in a dry summer, greener choices are within reach.