Parts of Beth Chatto's gravel gardens in Essex, known for their drought-tolerant planting, are showing visible signs of stress this summer. Foliage has turned brown, and visitors are observing desiccated plants and cracked soil.
Southern England, including Essex, has experienced zero or low rainfall since the middle of June. Malin Andersson, head gardener at Beth Chatto Gardens, notes that stunted growth, leaf drop, and curling leaves are signs plants are coping with stress from sun and heat.
While some plants, such as Lily of the Nile, California fuchsia, and Russian sage, are performing well, others like elephant ears are struggling. Gardeners at Beth Chatto are cutting back damaged areas on some plants and hoping roots will survive for next year.
With hosepipe bans in place across much of England, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) suggests using grey water from showers, baths, and dishwashing for gardens. Nicholas Cryer, senior water scientist at the RHS, states that soil and potting composts can filter out soap and detergent, but grey water should be used within 24 hours to minimise bacterial growth.