Watering deeply beats watering often

Most gardens are watered little and often — a quick sprinkle every evening. It feels generous, but it trains roots to stay near the surface, where they dry out fastest and suffer first in a heatwave.

Why deep watering works

A thorough soak once or twice a week pushes water 15–20 cm down. Roots follow it, growing deeper and becoming far more drought-tolerant. The surface dries between waterings too, which discourages moss and weed seedlings.

How much is enough?

For lawns, aim for about 2.5 cm of water a week, including rain. Put an empty tuna tin on the grass while the sprinkler runs and time how long it takes to fill — that’s your watering time.

Water at the right time

Early morning is best: less evaporation, and leaves dry quickly, which reduces disease. Water the soil rather than the foliage, and mulch borders afterwards to hold the moisture in. A drip system on a timer does all of this for you.