As the UK braces for a mini-heatwave, gardeners may be wondering how to keep their plants hydrated and healthy during the hot weather10:14, 19 Jun 2026The UK is set to experience a mini-heatwave this week and into early next, bringing with it the age-old headache for gardeners — how to prevent their plants from wilting as the sun climbs.‌Current Met Office forecasts suggest temperatures could comfortably hit 30C in certain parts of the UK, with the hot weather continuing over the next few days.‌With that in mind, now is the time for gardeners to start considering their watering strategies, particularly when it comes to those treasured potted plants and patio containers.‌Waine Delaney, from mushroom cultivation experts Monotub, believes that mushroom water could be the secret weapon to keep your plants flourishing during the scorching conditions expected later this week.It's straightforward enough to prepare, he says. Simply grab a handful of any edible mushrooms, chop them up, and leave them to soak in your watering can for a full 24 hours, reports the Liverpool Echo.‌Once the time is up, drench the roots of your outdoor plants or containers with the mushroom water after the sun has gone down.Wayne explained: "Whether they are dry or fresh, mushrooms are natural sponges and are made up of 85-90% water."He revealed the magic behind the method: "When placed in the water of a watering can, mushrooms act as a 'hydration pod'. This means that mushroom-infused water slowly releases into the soil, reducing evaporation during peak heat hours."‌But the advantages extend beyond just hydration. Mushrooms are packed with nutrients including potassium, selenium, magnesium, and phosphorus.These beneficial elements seep into the water, forming a gentle tonic that replenishes minerals which plants need when temperatures soar, all without the potential harm caused by stronger fertilisers.Introducing mushroom-infused water to the soil releases mycelium, a web of fungal threads that function like roots.‌Soaking mushrooms in water disperses matter from the vegetable into the liquid. When this liquid is added to the soil, it stimulates fungal activity, helping the soil retain water and making it easier for plants to absorb.The natural appearance of mushrooms in your garden generally signals healthy soil and decomposing organic matter. They typically don't damage plants, and certain varieties, such as wine caps, can help break down soil nutrients and prevent weed growth.Even if the heatwave concludes with heavy, thundery rainfall, don't presume your potted plants are receiving adequate water. Plants in containers might not get sufficient water because of the "canopy" effect of leaves, which can redirect rainwater away from the soil and onto your patio.‌Simon, a horticulture expert from the popular gardening channel Walking Talking Gardeners, has revealed a "genius" tip to stop your treasured pot plants from drying out. It's not simply a matter of constant watering – overdoing it can prove harmful, potentially leading to root rot, leaf discolouration, and hindered growth.Excessively saturated soil can also create conditions that encourage unhealthy root mould and fungal development, causing further damage to the plant.Article continues belowSimon's "genius" technique, he maintains, involves adopting the approaches used by traditional gardeners during the 19th and 20th centuries, when stone or terracotta containers were commonly employed.He explains: "You would be familiar with terracotta pots and the sound it makes If it is dry. If you tap it with an appropriate stick, the pot will make a ringing sound. "If it is fully-watered, it would have a dull kind of thud to it."So just by tapping a pot you'll be able to tell if that pot requires watering or does not require watering."