7 simple but effective ways to keep your patio cool to sit in for both you and your plants, even during a heatwave

A garden with a folding wooden sun lounger and a matching gardenchair set next to a fire pit.

I don't know about your patio, but when temperatures soar, mine can quickly become one of the hottest spots in the garden. The paving radiates heat, my potted plants dry out constantly, and even sitting in it can feel a bit *much*.

If you're wondering how to keep a garden cool in a heatwave, I've found the secret lies in what people with cool gardens always have during a heatwave. Think garden shade ideas, leafy plants, a gentle trickling water feature and a way to encourage some sort of breeze.