The recent periods of extreme heat across the UK have highlighted the importance of heat wave landscape maintenance for businesses, schools, local authorities, and homeowners alike. What were once considered occasional hot spells are increasingly becoming longer, more intense, and more frequent. As climate patterns continue to change, landscapes must be managed differently to remain healthy, attractive, and resilient.
At Wessex Grounds Services, we have seen first-hand the impact prolonged dry weather can have on lawns, planting schemes, sports pitches, and commercial landscapes. By understanding what to do—and what not to do—you can help protect your outdoor spaces during periods of extreme heat.
Why Heat Waves Are Becoming a Growing Concern
According to climate experts, the UK is expected to experience more frequent and intense heat events in the coming decades. Landscapes designed for cooler, wetter conditions may struggle to cope without adaptation.
Signs of heat stress in landscapes include:
- Brown or scorched lawns
- Wilting plants and shrubs
- Cracked or compacted soil
- Reduced flowering and growth
- Increased pest activity
- Tree stress and premature leaf drop
Proper heat wave landscape maintenance can significantly reduce these impacts and help landscapes recover more quickly.
What NOT to Do During a Heat Wave
Avoid Cutting Grass Too Short
One of the most common mistakes during hot weather is mowing lawns too closely. Short grass exposes soil to direct sunlight, causing moisture to evaporate much faster.
Instead, raise mower cutting heights to help shade the soil and encourage deeper root growth.
Don’t Overwater Little and Often
Frequent shallow watering encourages roots to stay near the surface, making plants more vulnerable to drought.
Avoid daily light watering and focus on deeper, less frequent irrigation.
Avoid Fertilising During Extreme Heat
Applying fertiliser during very hot weather can place additional stress on plants and may even scorch roots and foliage.
Wait until temperatures moderate before feeding lawns and borders.
Don’t Plant High-Water-Demand Species
Traditional planting schemes containing thirsty annuals and moisture-loving species may struggle during prolonged dry periods and require unsustainable levels of irrigation.
What TO Do During a Heat Wave
Water Early or Late
Watering early in the morning or later in the evening reduces evaporation and allows moisture to penetrate deeper into the soil.
Focus on:
- Newly planted trees and shrubs
- Hanging baskets and containers
- Sports turf and high-value lawn areas
Apply Mulch
Organic mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperatures.
Materials such as bark chippings, compost, or well-rotted organic matter can dramatically improve drought resilience.
Aerate Compacted Ground
Dry soils often become compacted, preventing water from penetrating effectively. Aeration can improve water infiltration and encourage stronger root systems.
Monitor Trees Carefully
Trees are long-term investments within any landscape. Young trees are particularly vulnerable during heat waves and may require supplemental watering to establish successfully.
Professional inspections can help identify signs of stress before permanent damage occurs.
Consider Professional Grounds Maintenance
A proactive maintenance programme can help identify issues early and implement practical solutions before significant deterioration occurs. Learn more about our professional grounds maintenance and landscaping services here:
https://www.wessexgroundsservices.co.uk/services/
Future-Proofing Landscapes for a Hotter Climate
As extreme weather becomes more common, landscape design must evolve. The focus should be on selecting plants that can tolerate drought, withstand temperature fluctuations, and require less irrigation.
Drought-Tolerant Trees
Consider planting:
- Field Maple (Acer campestre)
- Silver Birch (Betula pendula)
- Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
- Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)
- Pine varieties suitable for local conditions
Drought-Resistant Shrubs
Excellent options include:
- Lavender
- Hebe
- Rosemary
- Cistus (Rock Rose)
- Elaeagnus
- Escallonia
These plants provide colour, structure, and wildlife benefits while coping well with dry conditions.
Perennials for Hot Summers
For long-lasting seasonal interest, consider:
- Salvia
- Verbena bonariensis
- Echinacea
- Achillea
- Sedum
- Gaura
These species perform well during dry periods and continue to attract pollinators.
Replace Traditional Lawns Where Appropriate
In some areas, replacing sections of lawn with:
- Wildflower meadows
- Gravel gardens
- Drought-tolerant planting beds
- Groundcover planting
can reduce maintenance requirements and improve environmental sustainability.
For additional guidance on drought-tolerant planting, visit the Royal Horticultural Society’s advice on climate-resilient planting:
https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/types/trees/drought-tolerant-trees
Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Climate
The landscapes that thrive in the future will be those designed and maintained with resilience in mind. Investing in thoughtful planting, sustainable irrigation practices, and professional maintenance can help protect your outdoor spaces from increasingly common periods of extreme heat.
At Wessex Grounds Services, our experienced team provides landscaping, grounds maintenance, horticultural consultancy, and environmental improvements throughout Dorset and the South West. Whether you need advice on drought-tolerant planting, sports turf care, or long-term landscape planning, we are here to help.