After weeks of scorching temperatures, the much-needed rain is a blessing to many gardens - however, temperatures are expected to increase again in the early weeks of August. Thinking ahead, gardeners are to place a dish of water in their outdoor spaces for this reason.

This year, summer in the UK has seen bright days and hot temperatures, and surprisingly, little rain. Although it has provided a much-needed lift for our gardens, the sweltering conditions have been a challenge for essential pollinators such as bees. Bumblebees, alongside common beesand even wasps, serve as crucial pollinators that fulfil a fundamental function within our natural environment.

The World Wildlife Foundation has highlighted that bumblebee populations are experiencing significant decline due to habitat destruction caused by multiple factors: pesticides, contamination and naturally, climate change. It comes after a warning to plant three flowers to repel wasps from coming into the garden.

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Bumblebees possess a fuzzy exterior which serves as protection in Britain's typically temperate weather conditions, reports the Express. However, as scorching summers become increasingly intense across the country, bumblebee communities may face additional strain, according to the WWF.

This is precisely why those tending gardens are being requested to place a water container or a tray within their outdoor areas this weekend to assist bumblebees in surviving the upcoming extreme weather patterns.

WWF's chief adviser for wildlife, Paul De Ornellas, explained: "Bumblebees are crucial for pollinating crops, fruits and plants, and they always make me smile when I see them. They're vital for maintaining a healthy environment and for our food production. Unfortunately, like many insects, bumblebees are in decline due to habitat loss linked to land use change, pesticides, and pollution, all made worse by climate change."

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He added: "As temperatures rise, bumblebees are moving north to look for more suitable environments, but sadly some species could find themselves with nowhere left to go. Bumblebees also have a furry coat and much prefer cooler climates as they can easily overheat and become unable to fly or forage. They also struggle in times of extreme heat as the flowers providing them with nectar and pollen may start wilting and drying."

Paul suggested that gardeners should, alongside cultivating blooms in sheltered spots, position a water dish in the garden to assist bumblebees in cooling down."

He continued: "Flowering plants in shady areas will be a welcome relief for bumblebees. If you see a sleepy bumblebee on the pavement or a windowsill in the hot sun, they can be carefully transported to a flower in a shady area if safe to do so. Provide a shallow tray of water, with pebbles, branches or bark above the water level for bees to rest on as they drink."