Give vulnerable plants temporary shade

When to do it

Before a forecast hot spell, for young or heat-sensitive plants. Remove temporary protection as conditions ease.

What you need

• Breathable shade cloth or a movable shade screen
• Stable supports and secure clips
• Gloves

How to do it

1. Identify the bed exposed to harsh afternoon sun. Check moisture first; shade does not replace watering when roots are dry.
2. Place supports clear of stems and roots. Position the screen to intercept afternoon sun, often on the western side. Do not improvise a large structure that could fall or blow away.
3. Secure breathable cloth above or beside the plants with space for growth and open sides for airflow. Avoid laying heavy fabric on tender shoots or sealing plants under plastic.
4. Check during the hot part of the day: is shade actually reaching the vulnerable plants, and is air moving underneath? Adjust from safe ground.
5. Inspect after wind and each hot day. Remove or move the temporary cover when the hot spell passes so plants receive their normal light.

What success looks like

• Vulnerable leaves are shaded at the hottest time without being crushed.
• The cover stays secure and the growing space remains ventilated.

Watch out for

• Keeping plants under dense shade indefinitely.
• Allowing cloth to rub shoots or leaving loose fixings in wind.
• Overwatering already wet soil because the air is hot.

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