As the last month of summer, August is a crucial time for gardeners to ensure their outdoor spaces and the wildlife they support are ready for the changing season. Gardening and wildlife expert James Ewens from Green Feathers has revealed five essential jobs to tick off before autumn arrives.
Pollinator Pitstop
Creating a pollinator pitstop is a simple yet effective way to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, even in small spaces. This can be as basic as a shallow bowl of fresh water with stones for insects to land on, surrounded by nectar-rich plants like lavender or echinacea.
Ewens advises: "Keep the water clean and replenished, and shallow for pollinators. Use pebbles or stones to give a perching place for insects to top up without the risk of drowning." Even a tiny pitstop on a balcony or patio can make a big impact.
Deadhead Spent Flowers
Deadheading is essential in August to keep plants neat and encourage more blooms. Remove flowers as soon as they fade to prevent them from dropping petals too soon and to divert energy away from seed production.
Bedding plants, roses, cosmos, dahlias, and summer-flowering perennials all benefit from weekly deadheading, as do shrubs like tree peonies and climbers. However, Ewens reminds gardeners to leave bird-friendly seeds like sunflower heads and rudbeckias for feathered friends.
Continue Feeding Birds Safely
Supplementary feeding is vital in August when birds are still active and feeding young. Hygiene is critical to prevent diseases like trichomonosis, which can spread in summer heat.
Ewens recommends keeping feeders topped up little and often, cleaning them thoroughly once a week, and providing fresh water. Avoid foods that spoil quickly and opt for nutrient-rich options like sunflower hearts, mealworms, and quality seed mixes.
Responsible Watering
Proper watering is one of the most important jobs in hot weather. Ewens stresses the importance of timing: "Midday sun is not a good time to water. Early morning or evening are best, and morning watering wins because it reduces evaporation."
Water deeply a few times a week rather than little and often to encourage stronger root systems. Hanging baskets and new plants may need more attention; check soil moisture by feeling an inch below the surface.
Lawn Care Health Check
If your lawn looks dry and patchy, don't panic. Established grass is resilient and will recover with proper care. Ewens advises deep soaking during prolonged dry spells and avoiding mowing too short in August, as longer grass helps shade the soil and retain moisture.
By following these five essential jobs, you can help your garden and its wildlife thrive as the season transitions to autumn.
