A recycled plastic water bottle is a good way to ensure plants won't wilt in the summer sunshine. While herbaceous plants, annuals and crops in your garden will be crying out for a drink in the summer, chances are you will be out and about making the most of the gorgeous weather.

Most delicate or container-grown plants will cope with a decent glug every morning (before the sun gets too strong and can burn wet leaves) or in the late afternoon, but left any longer, can experience problems. The solution is fairly simple - once you've quenched your own thirst with a bottle of water, save it and use it to ensure your plants don't suffer in the sun.

1. Use a 1-litre plastic bottle if possible, though 500ml is fine too. Wash it out if it's had any liquid other than water in it and replace the lid.

2. Remove the bottom of the bottle with scissors.

3. Pierce a hole in the lid with a skewer to allow water to slowly drip out.

4. Dig a hole next to the plant or container you want to keep hydrated. Make it deep enough for the water to directly reach the plant's roots (but be careful not to disturb them).

5. Insert the bottle lid first and backfill the soil around the bottle. The end of the bottle should stand proud of the ground, or soil if in the container.

6. Fill with water and keep an eye on it; fill as and when needed for happy plants.