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The words ‘long hot summer’ are a worry for every gardener, but with the reality of a warmer climate, it’s a case of adapting to the new environment and facing the challenges of nature head-on. The key to creating a sustainable garden this summer in Australia is two pronged. Firstly, choose the right plants – the toughies that can tolerate hot temperatures and minimum watering. And secondly, make sure the water you do apply to your garden gets to where it’s needed most – the root zone – and stays there for as long as possible.
The best building block for a sustainable garden is healthy soil, full of organic matter which helps retain moisture. Start by digging in plenty of compost and cow manure, then apply a soil-wetting agent to all areas of the garden, to ensure water absorbs properly and doesn’t just run off the surface or straight through. Soil wetters break down the water-repellent layer that can develop on the soil surface, and help attract and hold moisture around the soil particles down in the root zone. Horticulturist Angie Thomas at Yates advises, “To make the most of any rainfall or watering, apply a soil wetter over the lawn and garden beds.”
There’s a wide range of durable and hardy plants that can survive and thrive in hot, dry climates, and lots of them are native to Australia. Whether you’re replanting just one garden bed, landscaping a whole new backyard or adding flowering pots to your home’s outdoor space, there’s a native species for the task. When planning a hedge, consider using Westringia ‘Aussie Box’ or Leptospermum ‘Fore Shore’ as alternatives to exotic hedge species.
For flowerbeds, plants like kangaroo paws and paper daisies put on a fabulous display of heat-hardy blooms. In pots and troughs, try fan flowers (Scaevola spp.) or Swan River daisies (Brachyscome spp).
Another ideal group of plants for hot, dry climates is succulents. From tall varieties like the tree aloe, down to ground-hugging species like echeverias, they add great impact to a garden and will survive on the most meagre of water rations. Just as tough, and with lots of spiky attitude, are the cactus species, which range in size from tall to tiny. One standout is the golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii), which makes a striking statement in any sun-drenched garden bed.
To maintain a water-wise garden through summer, do your watering early in the morning or at dusk when evaporation is at its lowest. Water-use restrictions vary around the country, so always check your local regulations. In areas where irrigation systems are permitted, go for drip systems over sprays – they are more efficient and direct the water to where it’s needed most.
To reduce your usage and save water, there is another vital tool at your disposal: mulch. It insulates the soil, shielding it from hot sun and wind and keeping the moisture trapped beneath. “Mulch is your friend during hot or dry weather,” says Angie. “It helps keep the soil cooler and reduces evaporation.”
For best results, use an organic mulch product like pea straw or lucerne, spreading it over the soil about 4-5cm deep. You’ll need to top it up periodically, as it breaks down.
Remember that shady zones are important in gardens too, to protect less robust plants which can sizzle in the hot summer sun. If your garden is short on shade, try planting clusters of native shrubs and small trees, such as wattles, to act as sun shields for your tender plants, especially along west-facing boundaries that catch the afternoon sun.
You can also use shadecloth to screen your annuals, fruit and vegies – like tomatoes, leafy greens and any new seedlings – so they don’t get scorched. When it comes to pots, put them under awnings or umbrellas, or move them to a shady south-facing location.
Learn more about growing healthy crops with our community Garden Corner.
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Photo Credit: Gap Photos, Natalie Hunfalvay, Nicholas Watt, Virginia Cummins/miniscapes
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
