Keeping your garden thriving in cooler summer weather

As we step into July, the sun is yet to make a consistent appearance, where has the summer gone!?! Despite these conditions, your garden can still thrive with a bit of extra care. Here are some essential gardening tips to help you navigate the cooler, unpredictable weather and keep your garden flourishing.

Watering Wisely

Even with cooler temperatures, watering is still important, especially during dry spells. Deep watering is crucial to reach the roots. Water less frequently but thoroughly to encourage deep root growth. Consider using a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose for efficient watering.

Mulching for Moisture

Mulching remains vital in July to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or compost, around your plants. This not only conserves water but also improves soil fertility over time. Remember to leave a gap between the mulch and plant stems to prevent stem rot.

Tackling Weeds

Regular weeding prevents competition for nutrients and water, ensuring your plants thrive. Remove weeds before they set seed to prevent spreading. Avoid chemical weed killers, as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.

Pruning and Deadheading

Pruning is essential in July. Trim overgrown shrubs or hedges to maintain their shape and encourage healthy growth. Deadhead spent flowers on annuals and perennials to promote continuous blooming.

Feeding Your Plants

Regular feeding is crucial for vibrant growth. Use a balanced organic fertiliser to provide necessary nutrients. Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers or fruits.

Harvesting Your Vegetables

If you have a vegetable garden, July is a busy month for harvesting. Keep an eye on your crops and harvest them as they ripen. Regular harvesting encourages continued production and prevents overripening.

Pest Patrol

Check your plants regularly for signs of pests, such as chewed leaves or discoloured patches. Handpick visible pests like slugs or aphids, and consider organic pest control methods if necessary. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds and beetles with log piles, compost heaps, and leaf litter to help control pest populations.

Enjoy Your Garden!

Finally, take some time to sit back and enjoy your garden. Despite the cooler weather, July is still a beautiful month when flowers can bloom, and the garden can be a haven of colours and scents. Relax and bask in the beauty you have created.

For more gardening advice, visit our plant experts in-store. And while you’re here, stop by the café for some refreshment!