23/07/2026
After weeks of scorching temperatures, I've noticed that some plants have really struggled, while others have carried on flowering beautifully with very little fuss.
If you're planning next year's borders, these are the stars of my garden...
Dahlia (my all time fav ā¤ļø)
Although dahlias appreciate regular watering, mine have continued producing masses of flowers throughout the heatwave. Deadheading regularly has kept them blooming and theyāve become one of the biggest focal points in the border.
Best grown: Full sun, fertile soil with consistent watering during prolonged dry spells.
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
One of my toughest performers in the garden this year. These cheerful daisy-like flowers absolutely love the sun and seem to thrive in hot, dry conditions.
Best grown: Full sun with well-drained soil. Care: Deadhead regularly (they itch so wear gloves š¤£) to encourage flowers right through until autumn.
Fan Flower (Scaevola aemula)
One of my favourite bedding plants this year. It has flowered almost non-stop despite the heat and has needed very little attention.
Best grown: Full sun.
Care: Water during prolonged drought, but avoid waterlogging.
Swan Lake Campion - I love this plant
This pretty trailing perennial has coped brilliantly with the heat. It flowers continuously and softens the edges of borders beautifully.
Best grown: Full sun and well-drained soil.
Care: Trim lightly after flowering to keep it compact.
Million Bells (Calibrachoa)
Another fantastic performer. It has spilled beautifully over containers and continued flowering even through the hottest weeks.
Best grown: Full sun.
Care: Feed weekly during the growing season and donāt let compost dry out completely.
It is teamed with Stonecrop (Sedum.)
These drought-loving succulents almost seem happier the hotter it gets! Their fleshy leaves store water, making them perfect for low-maintenance sunny gardens.
Best grown: Full sun with excellent drainage.
Care: Very littleāavoid overwatering.
My beautiful tree provides partial shade to some of my delicate plants to which I am so grateful for!!
My pots are doing well in full sun but I water them every morning before the sun makes an entrance!
The bamboo is a thirsty fella! I canāt wait for the scaffolding to go them I can get him in prime position ā¤ļø
And here she is !! My huge bay! She is my queen šø
My hostas have really faired the worst this year. Iām going to dig them up and put them in pots for next year!
