The Best Tools to Keep Small Gardens Hydrated in a Heatwave – They Make Watering Effortless, And Don't Take up Precious Space

Even tiny yards can have automated watering systems

Seating area surrounded by planters in bloom
(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs)

A heat dome is scorching over the Central and Midwest US which means backyards are demanding a lot more water. While automatic irrigation systems and oscillating sprinklers take care of large spaces, it's not always possible to incorporate such devices in a small garden.

But, don't fret. I've been searching for the best watering tools for small gardens during a heatwave and found some great gadgets to help you water your plants in hot weather with little effort and without taking up lots of room.

From vertical garden irrigation kits to self-watering planters (I love these terracotta ones from Amazon), there are solutions to make watering low-maintenance in every outdoor space, including balconies and patios. In fact, many of these products will even save how much water you use.

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Consistent watering is just one way to protect plants in a heatwave. You may also want to use a shade cloth (from Amazon), which is especially useful if your garden is limited in size and doesn't have a shade spot to move containers to.

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Tenielle Jordison
Gardens Content Editor

Tenielle is a Gardens Content Editor at Homes & Gardens. She holds a qualification in MA Magazine Journalism and has over six years of journalistic experience. Before coming to Homes & Gardens, Tenielle was in the editorial department at the Royal Horticultural Society and worked on The Garden magazine. As our in-house houseplant expert, Tenielle writes on a range of solutions to houseplant problems, as well as other 'how to' guides, inspiring garden projects, and the latest gardening news. When she isn't writing, Tenielle can be found propagating her ever-growing collection of indoor plants, helping others overcome common houseplant pests and diseases, volunteering at a local gardening club, and attending gardening workshops, like a composting masterclass.