Keep an eye on greenhouse plant hydration

16:52 19th April 2010

British greenhouse owners have been urged to pay special attention to the plants they have growing under glass.

As the weather heats up, glasshouse crops can quickly dry out, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) noted.

The organisation advised growers to check on the progress of plants on a regular basis and test hydration levels at least once every two or three days.

Once they start to show signs of growth, it is also beneficial to give them a liquid feed to boost nutrition levels.

Meanwhile, now is a good time to clean up the greenhouse and its contents by running a damp cloth over plants with shiny leaves and a soft brush over those with spikes.

Sweeping up debris and fallen compost can further boost hygiene levels, decreasing the risk of disease afflicting the crops.

The RHS is set to host its annual Chelsea Flower Show in London next month - one of a number of events taking place nationwide.