Ten things to do in the garden in July

July 4, 2011 - PRLog -- 1. Get tip top on water levels

Last month we made good all containers and storage for any rainfall to collect into, this month we put all that hard work to good use. The pond and bird baths can are affected by heat absorption on the hotter days so will need filling every now and then.  Luckily we didn’t run dry in June having had a reasonable amount of rain. This is great news for the lawn but those summer baskets and borders and vegetables in pots and grow bags will need additional attention.

2. Cut and sow

With so many flowers in full bloom, this is the time to think ahead to next year’s floral display. Take cuttings from flowers like Pinks and woody shrubs like Hebe and Lavender collect seeds from annuals that are now flowering. Don’t forget to label into separate envelopes to avoid confusion.

3. Paint it down

While we have a break in the wet weather, get your brush in hand and refresh all woodwork. Decking, fencing and sheds will welcome the lease of new life.

4. Veg out

Be aware of the upcoming vegetable crops; if it is producing food there is usually someone else that wants to eat it other than you. Cabbage root fly can be made hungry but popping a collar of card or a few sheets of newspaper under the stems. Shallots and potatoes need lifting now and pick beans and courgettes unless you prefer marrows. Keep sowing salad crops but also think about winter produce, sow spinach, turnips and Swedes.

5. Get fruity

Check for apple scab and any apples that look diseased, remove so not to ruin your crop. Throw nets over all fruit bushes to keep the birds off and take the last of the rhubarb pickings.

6. Compost Creation

If you do not have a compost heap or bin already, this is a great time of the year to start one. Not only is there lots of garden waste available the weather is ideal for breaking down deposits quickly. The wildlife is abundant too and will do their part in making easy work for a organic fertiliser.

7. Climbing High

As growth is at its most rapid now, keep checking the climbers and tucking their leafstalks back onto pergolas and supporting frames. Clematis is at risk to clematis wilt too so check for this too, any affected areas should be cut away straight away down to the healthy growth. You shouldn’t compost this waste as will disease the heap.

8. Cane and Stable

Some of your taller flower varieties will require support now; this is especially true of gladioli and lilies. They are very vulnerable to the slightest wind with their heavy flowering heads weighing them down. Avoid them falling horizontal and missing out on their delightful spectacle by propping them up with cane.

9. Bulb Bonanza

Plant up autumn flowering bulbs now so to keep the flowering season going once the summer season is over.  Most common are Crocus and Cyclamen which look fantastic in the border or equally as good in a pot or container positioned close to the house so to the best view.

10. Plan the party

With the last Bank Holiday creeping closer, take the opportunity to show off your garden in its glory and plan a party to be remembered. Take cuttings from your most treasured flowers and vase up in prime table position, and make for a great talking point.

* From an extract of the online diary of Helen Elks-Smith award winning garden designer  BSC(Hons)Dip GD, Cert. Hort. MSGD, for more information please visit www.elks-smith.co.uk

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