Record-breaking heat and dryness in August have had varied effects on garden plants, with some experiencing significant challenges. Back-to-back heatwaves were described as more intense than previous years, leading to a check on growth for several plants.
When plants are under heat stress, they may close their stomata, which are pores on their leaves. This action can hinder the movement of water and the exchange of gases necessary for photosynthesis, potentially causing plants to drop flowers before fruiting.
The intense conditions have also made some plants more vulnerable to pest attacks, such as leaf miners. Established perennials, like golden raspberries, have struggled, with canes turning brown and dying. Additionally, high UV levels have caused damage and discoloration, or sun scald, on leaves of plants including golden marjoram and newly planted beans.
Soil compaction in clay-heavy ground was exacerbated by the heat, leading to drier, less penetrable soil, which may have contributed to stunted courgette growth. Despite these difficulties, some plants, such as cucumbers in a greenhouse and a grapevine, have reportedly fared well, with hopes for a first real harvest from the grapevine this year.