With summer well underway here is the job list for July, which includes...
- Summer prune your fruit cordons and espaliers
- Keep weeds down around fruiting trees and other edibles to reduce the competition for nutrients
- Thin out fruit crops.
- Deadhead as often as possible to encourage more flowers
- Keep an eye on water levels - especially containers, pots and hanging baskets
- Harvest any fruit and vegetables that are available and if there is too much to eat either give it away or freeze it
- Hoe the borders regularly to keep weeds at bay
- Check plants regularly for pests and diseases
- Make sure bird baths and watering stations have plenty of clean and fresh water
- If you have a pond check it regularly and top it up as necessary
- Trim hedges this month (if you're sure there are no nests or existing ones have been vacated, remember that some birds come back for a second brood). If you're unsure, wait a bit longer
- Plan the autumn vegetable plot and sow seeds as appropriate
- Pinch out side shoots on tomatoes and keep them evenly moist to avoid blossom end rot (fruit splitting)
- If you have a greenhouse keep it well ventilated and shaded
- Keep your potted acers well watered and out of direct sunlight in order to avoid leaf scorch
- If you do get the chance to get into your garden and the sun is shining do wear a hat and sun lotion and don't forget to stay hydrated too.