Jobs for August in the Garden
Keeping your garden happy through the heat of summer
August can be one of the warmest months of the year, with flowers in full bloom and fruit and vegetables ready for harvest. It’s also a time when gardens can dry out quickly and plants need a little extra attention to keep them thriving. Here’s our guide to the key jobs to tackle this month:
Water regularly and efficiently
Early morning or late evening watering is best to reduce evaporation. Give plants a deep soak rather than a quick sprinkle to encourage strong root growth. Don’t forget pots, hanging baskets, and anything in the greenhouse – they can dry out fast in the heat.
Deadhead for more flowers
Keep on top of deadheading bedding plants, dahlias, roses, and perennials to encourage fresh blooms right into autumn. Cut back any straggly growth to keep displays neat and tidy.
Harvest little and often
Pick beans, courgettes, cucumbers, tomatoes, and other summer veg regularly to keep them cropping. Soft fruits like raspberries and blueberries are also at their best now – harvest as they ripen for maximum flavour.
Check for pests and problems
Warm weather can bring outbreaks of aphids, red spider mites, whitefly, and mildew. Inspect plants regularly and take action quickly to prevent infestations spreading.
Sow for autumn and winter
Sow quick crops like salad leaves, rocket, and radishes for a late harvest. You can also start winter lettuce, spinach, and hardy herbs for crops later in the year.
Prune and trim
Prune summer-fruiting raspberries, wisteria, and any flowering shrubs that have finished their display. Lightly trim hedges to keep them neat before growth slows in autumn.
Feed containers and baskets
Plants in pots and hanging baskets will be hungry by now – feed weekly with a liquid fertiliser to keep them flowering and healthy.
Support heavy crops
Branches laden with fruit may need support to prevent snapping. Use canes, ties, or props to take the weight off and protect your harvest.
Plan for autumn colour
Now’s a good time to think about planting autumn-flowering plants such as asters, sedums, and chrysanthemums to keep your garden colourful as summer fades.
Visit us in store for everything you need to keep your garden flourishing this August – from plants and seeds to tools, feeds, and expert advice. Let’s make the most of the summer sunshine!
