Hanging baskets are gorgeous features of any garden or home, but they can dry out quickly. This is due to a combination of factors, including exposure to wind and sun, leading to evaporation. The compost or potting mix used in hanging baskets is often lightweight and fast-draining, too, contributing to faster drying.

This can make it hard to keep the flowers alive, especially during the summer. Luckily, according to experts, one item can be added to the soil of hanging baskets to keep them alive.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) said: “Water-retaining granules or crystals can be added to potting compost in containers and hanging baskets to increase its capacity to hold water.

“They may help reduce the need to water frequently during dry spells and may reduce water wastage, but there are other techniques which may be worth trying too.”

Water-retaining granules are sold for adding to potting compost, with the granules holding many times their weight in water.

They hold it until the surrounding soil becomes drier, then release the water.

Both natural and synthetic versions are available, and it’s always best to opt for natural options.

The addition of granules does not replace the need for regular checking of container plants, though, especially in warm weather.

They can be picked up for around £2 a packet, with enough granules for at least six or seven baskets and containers.

When it comes to watering hanging baskets, make sure to water them early in the morning before the sun comes out.

Focus the watering can or hose directly on the soil and water gently until it just starts to come out of the bottom of the container.

Check in the evening, and if the soil is super dry, water the container again.

The limited soil volume in hanging baskets means nutrients are often drained within a matter of days.

This makes feeding them regularly also super important, so make sure to feed them once a week during the summer months.