Amazing August

August is a busy month in the garden, with warm days and plenty of growth to manage. It is the perfect time to enjoy the fruits of your labour while keeping on top of essential tasks to ensure your garden thrives. Here are some key jobs and tips to help you make the most of this productive month.  

Watering Wisely  

With warmer temperatures, plants can dry out quickly, especially those in containers or raised beds. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Focus on the base of plants rather than the leaves to ensure water reaches the roots where it is needed most. Mulching around plants with compost or bark chips helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds, reducing the need for watering.  

Harvesting Regularly

Many crops are ready for picking in August, including beans, courgettes, tomatoes, and berries. Regular harvesting encourages more production, so check plants every few days. If you have an abundance of produce, consider sharing with friends or preserving excess by freezing, drying, or making jams and chutneys.  

Deadheading Flowers

To keep flowering plants looking their best, remove spent blooms regularly. This encourages more flowers and prolongs the display well into autumn. Roses, dahlias, and petunias particularly benefit from deadheading. If you have lavender, trim it lightly after flowering to maintain a neat shape.  

Sowing for Autumn and Winter  

While summer is in full swing, it is also time to plan ahead. Sow fast-growing crops like spinach, lettuce, and radishes for autumn harvests. Hardy vegetables such as kale and winter cabbage can also be planted now to ensure a supply of fresh greens in the colder months.  

Pruning and Tidying 

Shrubs that have finished flowering, such as philadelphus or weigela, can be pruned to keep them in shape. Remove any dead or diseased wood to maintain plant health. Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or caterpillars, and remove them by hand or use organic treatments if necessary.

Lawn Care

Grass growth may slow in dry weather, so raise the mower blades to leave the lawn slightly longer. This helps protect the grass from scorching and retains moisture. If patches appear, reseed them in cooler, damp conditions for better germination.  

Planning for Next Year

August is a great time to assess your garden and note what has worked well. Order spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils and tulips now to plant in autumn. Consider saving seeds from your favourite plants to grow next year, ensuring they are fully dry before storing.  

By staying on top of these tasks, your garden will remain vibrant and productive. Take time to relax and enjoy the beauty of your outdoor space, knowing you are setting the stage for continued success in the seasons ahead.