Carol Klein explains the importance of judicious pruning
When the sun is shining, pottering around the garden really is one of life’s simplest pleasures.
While the weather’s warm and dry, there are several gardening jobs to do to keep a garden looking its best.
From giving plants the right amount of water to tackling pests and diseases, William Mitchell, the owner of Sutton Manor Nursery, has provided some top tips on how to tend to plants and gardens in summer.
1. Pace watering
Providing a garden with excess water following a period of drought may seem like the best thing to do, but it can actually be “dangerous for your plants”.
Gardeners should instead gradually reintroduce watering to their gardens as this is the safest method. Start with deep and thorough watering, allowing the soil to absorb the moisture.
READ MORE: Garden experts share ‘best time’ to mow your lawn in summer to keep it healthy
William urged: “Avoiding excessive watering at once is important as the soil may not be able to handle it after a prolonged dry period.”
2. Pruning
By pruning in summer, gardeners can reap the rewards of better displays from ornamental plants. It’ll also encourage bigger crops from fruit trees and bushes.
The gardening guru said: “Pruning is an essential job that every gardener has to do on a regular basis, but its importance is heightened following a drought.
“Although it’s essential to avoid heavy pruning until the plants have fully recovered, by trimming away any dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs and dead growth on plants, you are encouraging new, healthy growth.”
Don’t miss…
Monty Don warns of ‘damaging’ container plant mistake to ‘never’ make this month[EXPERT]
‘Crucial’ garden trend to ‘stay away from’ that ‘decreases a home’s value’[INSIGHT]
‘Worst offenders’ for garden damage that ‘won’t stop’ destroying your plants[COMMENT]
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
3. Soil conditioning
It is almost inevitable that soil will become compacted during hot weather in summer, especially if a hosepipe ban has been put in place.
Consequently, it is highly advisable that gardeners loosen up the soil by using a garden fork or aerator to allow the air and water to penetrate the earth.
William suggested that adding organic materials such as compost or manure can help to improve the condition of the soil as it slowly restores the nutritional content.
4. Mulching
Another “simple and natural way” of caring for a garden following hot weather in summer is to start mulching. This process requires gardeners to apply a layer of organic mulch (e.g. wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves) around plants.
The expert explained: “This will help your soil retain its moisture, reduce weed growth, and regulate the temperature of your soil, helping your garden get back to full health as quickly as possible.”
5. Pest and disease control
Trying to keep plants alive throughout a dry spell is a big enough task in itself, but drought-stressed plants are also more susceptible to pests and diseases.
William recommends keeping an eye out for any signs of infestations or illnesses, such as wilting and discolouration – this is key before taking appropriate measures to control them.
Watering the plants, ensuring the soil has enough nutrients, and making sure enough sunlight is reaching the plants are the typical ways to solve such issues.
Source: Read Full Article