The hot weather can be a drag on your garden, the combination of hot sun and less rainfall can leave your plants parched. But extra watering isn’t the only adjustment you need to make to your garden maintenance schedule. You also need to think about weeds, and grass. Our summer gardening checklist will help you care for your garden in the summer months.
- Water wisely
It can be tempting to water your plants every day to keep them from drying out. But, infact, you should aim to give them about an inch of water a week. Also avoid watering them in the midday sun, it is best to water them in the morning.
- Pay special attention to window boxes or hanging baskets
Annuals or perennials in pots, window boxes or hanging baskets will probably need a good soak every day, as they often get a lot of direct sunlight. If it is a particularly hot summer and they look to be struggling then you could move them out of the sun to give them a break.
- Look after young plants
Young plants will need particular attention to help get them through summer, giving them extra water will help.
- Add mulch
Mulch is the secret weapon of many gardeners. Adding a layer of mulch over your soil prevents the soil from drying out too much, and helps keep your plants cool. It can also prevent weed growth.
- Look after your lawn
Your grass will turn brown if it is exposed to high temperatures and direct sun for prolonged periods of time, this doesn’t mean it’s dead. As soon as the sun levels and temperatures drop your lawn will go green again. If you want to help protect it through summer you can leave it to grow longer, as the longer blades will protect the soil meaning more moisture is retained.
- Weeding is a must
Weeds will steal precious nutrients and moisture from your plants and they will also attract pests and diseases, so weeding should be part of your garden maintenance in summer.