Despite the unpredictable British summer weather, with its bouts of rain that seem to mock the very idea of a drought, July remains a pivotal month for gardeners. The earlier hosepipe ban might have prompted many to install water butts, only to find them overflowing, yet these efforts are not in vain. They serve as a reminder of the importance of water conservation and the whims of nature. As we move through July, there are several key tasks that can enhance the beauty and productivity of our gardens. Whether the sun decides to grace us with its presence or we continue to experience downpours, these gardening activities will ensure our green spaces thrive.
July is the peak of blooming for many flowers, and to maintain a vibrant display, regular deadheading is essential. By removing spent blooms from plants like lupins and delphiniums, you encourage further flowering. Roses also benefit from a midsummer trim to promote a second flush of blooms. This task may be slow and methodical, but it's perfect for a peaceful evening in the garden.
A clear garden is a happy garden. Regular hoeing of borders and beds will keep those pesky weeds at bay, allowing your plants to flourish without competition. In the rare event of a dry spell, consider applying weedkiller to stubborn perennial weeds like dandelions. Also, be sure to remove any dead annuals and other debris to your compost heap to maintain a tidy space.
It may seem counterintuitive given the wet weather, but proper watering is still crucial, especially if a dry spell hits. Ensure that plants in containers and hanging baskets receive adequate moisture. For those in the ground, water deeply to encourage roots to grow downwards, seeking moisture and becoming more drought-resistant. However, avoid overwatering, particularly with young plants, to foster strong root development.
For the vegetable gardeners, July is the time to sow autumn and winter crops like kohlrabi, turnips, and carrots. Continue planting salad crops and transplant tomatoes, celeriac, and cucumbers from indoors to your garden. Harvest beans, courgettes, and other vegetables, leaving the roots of legumes in the soil to enrich it with nitrogen. Greenhouse tomatoes, raspberries, and currants should also be ripe for picking.
With school holidays in full swing, involve children in gardening tasks. They can assist with planting, harvesting, weeding, and composting. Keep tools like secateurs out of reach for safety, but encourage their participation in other ways. Reward their hard work with fresh berries and fruits from the garden.
Celebrate the season by setting up a gazebo for shelter from the rain, playing outdoor games, and perhaps even setting up a paddling pool for the kids. For a festive touch, consider building a fire pit for evening warmth and cooking, or stick to the classic barbecue for a delicious meal to accompany your fresh garden produce.
In conclusion, July may bring unpredictable weather, but it also offers a wealth of opportunities for gardeners to nurture their spaces. By following these tips, you can ensure your garden remains a source of joy and bounty throughout the summer months.
Fit Some Stainless Steel Into Your Home
From a snazzy space age egg timer, a soap holder or your favourite wok to a fully decked out modern-looking kitchen, stainless steel is a metal that we can no longer seem to avoid in our homes.
Options For Starting Your Own Catering Business
With the rapid increase in social activity among people, caterers have become a very essential part of the party circuit. They have gone beyond the earlier caterers who were just meant to provide food; now they also look after the crockery and cutlery, they provide assistance with table arrangements, and they also provide the waiters to serve the food.
Ways Which You Can Clean Stainless Steel
Despite its name, stainless steel may be far from stain-free unless it is cleaned properly. It is far better than the steel alloys that preceded it at preventing rust, due to the addition of chromium to the mix in its creation, but poor cleaning can still leave it at risk of increased corrosion.
