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In a British gardener’s calendar, July is certainly one of the most glorious months of the year, with vibrant flowers in full bloom and vegetables reaching maturity.
However, while it’s important to bask in the beauty of your outdoor space, now is not the time to get complacent.
In conversation with GB News, Plantum’s resident plant expert Anastasia Borisevich said: “While the bright sun fuels lush leaves and vibrant flowers, it may feel like sunshine and rainbows. Yet, several chores still require your watchful eye.”
The gardening guru shared her five top tips for green thumbs this July.
Water wisely
According to Anastasia, “timing is everything”, so choosing your watering hours wisely is essential.
The expert advised gardening enthusiasts to water their plants early, between 8am and 10am.
“This gives them plenty of time to absorb moisture before the afternoon heat hits,” she explained. “Wait until the evening if you can’t water in the morning.”
As for the perfect watering technique, a “quick splash” every day isn’t going to cut it.
“Water them thoroughly, fully soaking them. Wait for the topsoil to dry up before watering again,” Anastasia instructed.
Note that your watering habits may have to change as more than 20 million Britons could be hit with a hosepipe ban.
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Water your plants early, between 8am and 10am
Weed your garden
To keep opportunistic weeds at bay, Anatastia advised opting for 5cm of compost mulch. Alternatively, other types of mulch in thick 2cm layers can be used to kill weed seeds.
“Make sure this kind of control suits your plants and lets you monitor soil conditions. Pull out the weeds before you apply mulch. You can put pieces of ink and wax-free cardboard beneath it.”
The expert added that this method provides root temperature control throughout the year, preventing your plants from shock caused by temperature fluctuations. What’s more, it helps the soil retain moisture.
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Keep opportunistic weeds at bay this summer
Check for pests and diseases
“If you constantly feel bothered by bugs crawling all over you and your belongings in summer, imagine how your plants must be feeling,” the green thumb implored.
Summer is the “prime time” for active growth in plants, and the same can be said for their “worst enemies” – pests.
They carry “nasty plant diseases” fit to wreck a garden, Anastasia warned, so you must protect your outdoor haven.
“Be wary of whiteflies, red spider mites, scale insects, gall mites, powdery mildew, and aster yellows this season,” the expert cautioned.
Deadhead flowers
For attractive plants that bloom for longer, Anastasia told garden enthusiasts to remove spent flowers from petunias, geraniums, roses, and other “summer favourites”.
Plant late summer crops
It’s time to get ahead of the game and plan for an abundant autumn and winter harvest, so you can enjoy the fruits of your labour even when the weather is bleak.
The expert said: “With warm soil and peak summer temperatures, July is the perfect time to start these plants: zucchini, carrots, bush beans, parsley, arugula, kale, swiss chard, beets, zinnias, and verbena.”