The secret to keeping your garden green during the Maltese summer: an efficient irrigation system

A healthy, vibrant garden isn’t achieved with just good soil and beautiful plants. Behind every lush, thriving outdoor space, there is a silent yet essential ally: an efficient irrigation system.

In Malta, where summers are increasingly long, hot, and dry, keeping your garden green and healthy can be a real challenge. However, with the right solution, it’s possible to enjoy a fresh, green space throughout the entire season.

The big challenge: extreme heat and lack of rainfall

During the summer months (June to September), Malta experiences temperatures that often exceed 30 °C, with peaks reaching 35 °C or more during heatwaves. Additionally, average rainfall during these months is extremely low, with less than 10 mm of accumulated rain in July and August.

This means that the soil dries out quickly, leaving plants exposed to constant water stress. According to a report by the Department of Agriculture Malta, more than 70% of domestic gardens lose density and colour during the summer if they do not have an adequate irrigation system.

Why is an irrigation system the key?

An automated and well-designed irrigation system not only makes it easier to maintain your garden but also offers major advantages:

• Efficient water use A drip or sprinkler irrigation system can reduce water consumption by up to 50% compared to traditional manual watering. In Malta, where water is a scarce and costly resource, this efficiency is essential.

• Time and effort savings It’s estimated that an average household in Malta spends between 3 and 5 hours per week manually watering their garden during the summer. With an automated system, all that time turns into free hours to enjoy your outdoor space.

• Protection against heatwaves Watering at the right times (generally before 8:00 am or after 6:00 pm) improves water absorption and reduces evaporation by up to 30%.

• Healthier and longer-lasting growth Well-hydrated plants are up to 60% more resistant to pests and diseases, meaning fewer chemicals and less maintenance intervention.

In such a demanding summer climate as Malta’s, an irrigation system isn’t a luxury — it’s a strategic necessity. It’s the difference between a dry, lifeless garden and a green, fresh, and vibrant outdoor space.

At Derek Garden Centre, we specialise in designing and installing customised irrigation systems to keep your garden green and healthy all year round.

Would you like to discover the best solution for your space? Contact us today and let your garden speak for you!

The Derek Garden Centre team.

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