Summer is a season of contrasts in the Hampshire garden: lush growth, vibrant colour and long evenings outdoors on one hand, drought stress, pest pressure and the relentless need to mow on the other. Staying on top of a few key tasks each month makes the difference between a garden that performs brilliantly and one that runs out of steam by August.
June: Peak Season Management
June is the garden's finest month in most years. Focus on deadheading to extend flowering, keeping on top of weeding before seeds set, and watering new plantings thoroughly in dry spells.
- Deadhead roses, geraniums and other perennials regularly
- Keep lawns mowed but raise the cutting height in dry spells
- Water new plantings and containers daily in hot weather
- Clip box and other formal topiary
- Stake tall perennials before they flop
- Feed containers weekly with a liquid tomato-type feed
July: Managing the Heat
July is often the hottest, driest month in Hampshire and Dorset. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation losses. This is the best month to tackle the lawn edges and keep the garden looking crisp and well-maintained.
August: Planning for Autumn
August is a good time to assess the garden and plan for autumn improvements. Order spring bulbs now for the best selection. Take cuttings of pelargoniums and other tender plants before the first frosts arrive in October.
A&T Landscapes provides regular maintenance throughout the summer months across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. Call 07735 916029 to discuss a maintenance programme.