Warm weather and long sunny July days
With the hot weather and long sunny days, what better time of year to enjoy the fruits of your labour by relaxing in the garden.
It’s not all fun and no action, though, as there are still jobs to be done in the garden to keep it looking its best. As one of the hottest months, plants need to be well watered especially the new ones, with grey water if possible. Your plants also need regular dead-heading/pruning to ensure they continue to display colourful blooms. It is also important to keep on top of weeds, which have a tendency to flourish in the summer sunshine.
Other jobs this month include:
- Keep an eye out for symptoms of clematis wilt
- With the continued sunny weather it means indoor plants from the conservatory can now be placed outside
- Be sure to water new plants and tubs but it’s best to be conscious of the amount of water used
- For bedding plants and repeat-flowering perennials, it’s best to deadhead them to keep them thriving
- Its time this month to harvest courgettes for use before they turn into marrows.
Summertime sowing
With the warm summer months upon us, there is still plenty of time to be planting and sowing vegetables not only for use in the coming months but also for the winter months ahead. Sow the likes of oriental vegetables, spring cabbages, chicory, fennel and turnips, along with carrots (although be cautious of carrot fly) and there’s a last chance to sow runner beans and French beans. For the autumn and winter months, here is a chance to plant the likes of autumn/winter salads, brassicas and leeks if you haven’t already.
RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
This month you can enjoy the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. Starting on 8 July and running until the 13 July 2014, this year’s show is a mix of a great British flower show and a sunny summer festival. You can enjoy the fantastic Zones Grow, Inspire & Escape with their own unique themes and attractions, inspiring show gardens that have been designed on a budget, a wealth of tradestands and market-style shopping to explore, along with an abundance of flowers that are sure to brighten up any visitor’s day.
Exploring style: Planning a naturalistic border
If you have just started your garden and want to learn more about what delights you can add to your own garden then why not book this beginner’s course at RHS Garden Harlow Carr? On 11 July between 10am and 4pm you will gain valuable knowledge and learn practical skills on planning naturalistic borders that will have interest and structure from summer to winter, using different plant forms, textures and colours. The course takes on current trends from designers such as Dan Pearson and Piet Oudolf to help you learn a planting style that will be fresh and exciting. It is advised that students bring their own lunch and equipment.
Listen to the latest RHS podcast
Listen to our latest podcast, where we offer seasonal information, you can hear tips on growing fruit and veg, and get up-to-the-minute help and advice.
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