Heatwave strains human health and garden plants across Europe

Extreme temperatures are triggering physiological stress in people and causing damage to sun‑loving garden plants. Medical experts explain that the body responds to heat by increasing thirst, sweating, heart‑rate and breathing to dissipate excess heat, but these adjustments are temporary and can quickly reach their limits. In Belgium, doctors such as Etienne Von Hacker and Pierre‑Paul Roquet note that skin blood vessels dilate and sweat becomes more efficient after a few days, yet the risk of heat‑related illness remains high.

Similarly, gardeners in France report that even plants marketed for full‑sun exposure can suffer once temperatures exceed about 32 °C and UV levels rise. Providing light shade, deep watering and mulching helps prevent leaf burn, premature flowering and slowed growth. Simple measures such as suspending a light fabric or using shade nets can lower temperature around plants by 10‑15 °C and preserve moisture.

Both reports highlight the importance of staying hydrated, seeking shade and protecting vulnerable organisms during prolonged heatwaves.