How to get the most out of your garden in Summer – @man_about_gardening

Summer the season of blue skies, warm air and humid nights. I love my garden in the Summer, from the roses heading into their second floral flush, to the riot of colour from the Dahlia’s. But summer comes with its challenges for us gardeners, so I’ve shared some of my tips on how to get the most out of your garden in Summer.

The early bird catches the worm, right! I’m sure we have all heard the quote, which can be applied into our gardens. Set that alarm for an early wakeup call and head out into the garden for a watering session.

Watering in the early morning coolness is more beneficial for your beloved plants, the heat hasn’t yet taken hold of the garden so that lovely H2O can soak down into the roots without the risk of evaporation.

SUNSCREEN for plants! Whilst enjoying the summer sunshine and topping up your own sunscreen, why not apply some SPF for your plants in the form of MULCH. Apply a layer of organic mulch around your garden borders and on top of pots to give your plants a little respite. Not only will this help protect them from the blazing sunshine, but it will also lock in moisture keeping your plants happy and hydrated.

Parasols, umbrellas and old bed sheets all work at creating some shade for your plant babies to take a second out of the sun. Trust me your plants will be thankful for the sunbreak, and you will be rewarded with lush green.

Have plants in pots? Make sure to keep up with the weekly feeding, (I use feeding Friday to remind myself to get out there every week and give the plants the good stuff) ranging from tomato feed to liquid seaweed. Feeding your plants makes them stronger, flower more and offer all round plant health, perfect for getting through summer.

Create little pockets of nectar rich flowers around the garden for our pollinating garden friends. Plants like Salvias, Verbena, open-centered Dahlias are perfect for attracting bees, hoverflies and butterflies. Not only will you be making your garden the hottest dining spot in the town, but you will also be rewarded with the gentle hum from the buzzing bees and the magical flutters of the butterflies wings.

The most important tip to get the most out of your garden in summer, is to simply take a second to sit back and enjoy your hard work, grab yourself a nice ice cold drink, recline of that seating area and soak up the sunshine and floral array you have created.

Happy Gardening friends, Luke x

Hello my names Luke and I live in Shropshire with my wife, two children, two dogs, four cats, one bunny and one fish! We moved into our current home 5 years ago and was greeted with a new build garden, plain lawn and paving slabs. Over time we have created our little floral oasis aptly named The Pink Garden for our love of pink plants.

@man_about_gardening