Summer is a highlight of the English gardening calendar, with plants reaching their peak growth and blooming magnificently. However, it’s also a time when gardens require the most care to maintain their beauty and health. Here are some essential summer gardening jobs to keep your garden thriving through the warm months.
Watering wisely
In the English summer, while rain is often plentiful, dry spells can occur, making watering at the top of the to-do list. Early morning or late evening is the best time to water your plants, as this reduces evaporation and allows the roots to absorb moisture before the day heats up. Focus on the roots rather than the leaves to prevent mould and mildew. Deep watering, where the soil is soaked thoroughly, encourages roots to grow deeper and strengthens plants against drought. This can easily be done by submerging a cut drinks bottle, drinking end first, in the soil, and filling it up from the exposed cut end.
Deadheading and pruning
Removing dead flowers is essential for many flowering plants during the summer; not only does it encourage more blooms, but it keeps your garden looking tidy. Perennials like roses, daisies, and lupins benefit from regular deadheading. In addition to deadheading, some plants might need light pruning to remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning also helps maintain the shape and size of your plants, preventing them from becoming overgrown and shading out other plants.
Weeding
Weeds are particularly vigorous in the summer, competing with your plants for nutrients, water, and light. Regular weeding is essential to keep them under control. It's easier to pull weeds after watering or rain when the soil is soft. Use a hoe for larger areas and hand-pull smaller weeds, ensuring you remove the roots to prevent regrowth.
Pest and disease control
With warm weather comes an increase in pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for common summer pests like aphids, slugs, and caterpillars. Organic pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybirds or using neem oil, can be effective without harming the environment. Diseases such as powdery mildew and black spot can also be more prevalent in summer, particularly in damp, humid conditions. Regularly check plants for signs of disease and treat them promptly with appropriate organic fungicides or by removing affected foliage.
Supporting and staking
Many plants, especially taller varieties and those with heavy blooms, need support during the summer. Stake plants early in the season before they start flopping over. For taller plants like delphiniums, dahlias, and tomatoes, use stakes or plant supports. Tie plants loosely with garden twine to avoid damage and check regularly as they grow to ensure the ties don’t become too tight.
By staying on top of these essential summer gardening jobs, you can ensure that your garden remains a vibrant, productive, and beautiful space throughout the season.
If getting on top of your garden feels like a daunting task, get in touch with a local gardener to give you advice and support. For more tips, follow Trust A Trader on Facebook or X.