As we step into August, the garden is buzzing with activity, and there's plenty to do to ensure your plants thrive. With longer days and warmer temperatures, this is the perfect time to give your garden the attention it deserves. Here are some top gardening tips for August, tailored for UK gardeners.
1. Prune Your Wisteria for Better Blooms
Now is the ideal time to give your wisteria a good prune. This isn't just about keeping the plant in check; a well-timed prune will also encourage a spectacular display of flowers next year. Cut back the long, whippy shoots to about five or six leaves from the main stem, which will help direct the plant's energy towards flowering rather than excessive growth.
2. Summer Pruning for Espaliers, Apples, and Pears
Pruning your espalier, apples, and pears during the summer is crucial for ripening fruit and ensuring a strong crop next year. By reducing the leafy growth, more sunlight reaches the fruit, helping it to ripen properly. Additionally, this pruning method improves air circulation around the branches, which can reduce the risk of disease.
3. Deadhead Summer Bedding and Perennials
To keep your garden looking vibrant through the rest of summer, regularly deadhead your summer bedding plants and perennials. This simple task prolongs the flowering period by preventing plants from going to seed. For an extra boost, give your plants a good feed with a liquid tomato feed, which is rich in potassium and excellent for flowering plants.
4. Water Wisely
Keeping your plants well-watered during August is essential, especially with the sporadic rainfall typical of the UK summer. Ideally, use rainwater collected in water butts to be more sustainable and provide your plants with a gentle, pH-neutral drink. Water either early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and ensure the roots absorb as much moisture as possible.
5. Harvest Vegetables as They Ripen
As your vegetables reach their peak, make sure to harvest them promptly. Regular picking encourages the plants to produce more and prevents overripe vegetables from attracting pests. Beans, courgettes, tomatoes, and cucumbers are likely to be ready to be picked this month.
6. Tend to Your Raspberries
If you’ve been enjoying homegrown raspberries this summer, now’s the time to cut out the fruited canes. This simple task helps the plant focus its energy on the new growth, which will bear fruit next year. Tie in these new canes to support their growth.
7. Add Green Manure to Improve Soil
Green manure is a fantastic way to improve your soil's health. By planting a green manure crop now, such as clover or mustard, you'll suppress weeds, add nutrients to the soil, and improve its structure. This is especially beneficial if you’re planning on giving any of your beds a rest over the winter.
8. Prepare for Spring: Start Thinking About Bulbs
Although spring may seem a long way off, August is the perfect time to start planning your spring flowering bulbs. Think about planting daffodils, tulips, and crocuses, which can be planted later in the autumn. By preparing now, you'll have everything ready to go when planting season arrives.
August is a month of maintenance and preparation in the garden. By staying on top of these tasks, you'll ensure your garden remains healthy, productive, and beautiful well into the autumn and beyond. Remember to enjoy the fruits of your labour, whether it's the vibrant flowers in your borders or the delicious vegetables from your plot.
Happy gardening!