Chloe Dobinson

Gardeners are advised to water plants before 9am or after 7pm during a heatwave to reduce evaporation and prevent leaf scorching. Expert David Denyer recommends slow, deep watering at plant bases, moving containers into shade, protecting delicate flowers, caring for cut flowers indoors, and grouping pots to retain moisture. Hydrangeas, peonies, begonias, roses and newly planted bedding flowers are identified as especially vulnerable to heat stress.

Nutritionist Dr Federica Amati says most young, healthy people can generally stay hydrated by responding to natural thirst rather than targeting an arbitrary two-litre daily intake. Water obtained from food also contributes to hydration, while older or ill people may be more vulnerable to dehydration. Rehydration salts should generally be reserved for prolonged intense exercise, and excessive water consumption can dilute important minerals. A Nuffield Health guideline suggests approximately 35 millilitres of water per kilogram of body weight, with greater needs for people who exercise or live in hot conditions.

Alan Titchmarsh advises gardeners to keep lawns closely mown because rats prefer the cover and shelter provided by long grass. He also recommends building compost bins with solid sides and steel sheeting, since compost heaps provide warmth and shelter that attract rats. The article notes that longer grass benefits insects and other wildlife, so the best approach depends on the severity of a rat problem and the gardener’s priorities.

Gardeners are advised to support plants and wildlife during August heat by creating shallow pollinator water stations, deadheading flowers while leaving bird-friendly seeds, maintaining clean bird feeders and fresh water, and watering deeply during the cooler morning or evening hours. Dry lawns should not be cut too short, as longer grass helps retain soil moisture and established grass can recover from heat stress.

Nearly six million people in the UK are living with diabetes, with more than a million potentially undiagnosed with type 2. Type 1 diabetes results from the body’s inability to produce insulin, often appearing quickly in younger people, while type 2 develops more gradually when insulin becomes ineffective or insufficient. Both conditions share symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue and unexplained weight loss, though type 2 can progress unnoticed. Lifestyle changes and medication can help manage or prevent type 2, while untreated type 1 can lead to serious complications. Key warning signs and risk factors for both types are outlined to encourage early detection.