Hanging baskets won't need regular watering in summer if you add 1 item to the soil

Hanging baskets make beautiful additions to any garden or property, but they're infamous for rapidly becoming parched owing to elements like wind, sunlight, and quick-draining compost. Maintaining these floral displays throughout the summer period can prove tricky, yet horticultural experts have revealed a clever solution for those battling drooping flowers.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has recommended: "Water-retaining granules or crystals can be added to potting compost in containers and hanging baskets to increase its capacity to hold water. They may help reduce the need to water frequently during dry spells and may reduce water wastage, but there are other techniques which may be worth trying too." These clever moisture-preserving products are specially formulated for blending into potting medium, absorbing water like a sponge until flowers need a drink.

Available in both environmentally-conscious natural forms and artificial compositions, experts recommend choosing the more sustainable alternatives for gardening purposes.

While these granules provide additional moisture retention, they don't excuse gardening enthusiasts from routine plant monitoring, particularly during hotter periods, reports the Express.

For a modest investment of approximately £2 per package, sufficient granules can be obtained to support numerous baskets and containers, guaranteeing that your arrangements remain flourishing and colourful.

How to water hanging baskets

Regarding watering hanging baskets, the optimal time is during the early morning hours before sunrise. Aim your watering can or hose directly at the soil, gently watering until it starts to trickle out from the bottom of the container.

In the evening, perform another check, and if the soil is particularly dry, give the container an additional watering.

The limited soil capacity in hanging baskets often leads to nutrients being exhausted within a matter of days.

This necessitates regular feeding, so make sure to provide nourishment once a week during the summer period.