July means that we’re well and truly into summer. Hot days and warmevenings, and the gardens are coming into the best of their seasonaldisplays. This time of year can mean that some things need to be wateredat least once a day. Hanging baskets and pots in full sun can dry out veryquickly, and may need more than this. If, like me, you use mulch on yourborders it keeps moisture in the soil, which really helps when there is littlerain. Evening watering minimises evaporation, so I try and get mine donethen, when it’s cooler.
In
the
Borders
Delphinium and geranium can be cut back after flowering to encourage a second flush. Taller plantssuch as dahlia should be staked if this hasn’t been done already and climbers can continue to be tiedin. Wisteria can be pruned back now, so any whippy shoots should be taken back to 20cm from theirbase on the main branch. Cuttings can still be taken from perennials and shrubs but do make surethey don’t get too hot!Deadheading is essential to keep your flowers looking fab. It’s surprising how quickly blooms can gooff in the heat and feeding pots and baskets fortnightly will ensure you get the best from your plants.
In
the
Veg
Patch
July is a time when I literally start nibbling my way around the veg patch! Apart from strawberriesstill fruiting, blueberries and loganberries are ripe and delicious, and the cherries should be good togo.Courgettes can be harvested or can be left to become marrows and the first crop of runner beansshould be ready. Both are so easy to grow, crop prolifically and well worth it, especially with foodprices going up!Continue to remove side shoots from your tomatoes, if appropriate, and keep these, as well aspeppers and cucumbers, well supported. I feed once a week during this time. If you use a greenhousefor these, the sun can be quite harsh for this and next month. I’ve found greenhouse shading to be alifesaver! This can be found at most nurseries and is sprayed onto the inside of the glass and is easilywiped off when the chances of everything getting scorched lessen!Happy gardening!
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