Deadheading for Continuous Blooms
Deadheading is an essential part of summer gardening to keep blooms looking full, fresh, and healthy. According to James Ewens at Green Feathers, gardeners can encourage plants to continue producing new flowers and divert their energy toward seed production. He said: "In practice, this is removing faded flowers from bedding plants, roses, cosmos, and dahlias; summer-flowering perennials all benefit from a few minutes each week of deadheading, a little goes a long way. Sweet peas should also be picked regularly, while containers and hanging baskets benefit from weekly feeding to keep displays healthy and vibrant. Not only does deadheading keep your garden blooms looking fresh and last well into late summer, but it keeps borders, containers and hanging baskets looking tidier."
Feed Birds Responsibly in July
Birds need feeding more than ever during the summer, and it is important to do so responsibly. James explained: "While food sources are less scarce for birds in summer, supplementary feeding is always necessary, especially in July when birds are active for longer daylight hours and still feeding their young. It is one of the busiest and most demanding stages of their lifecycle, so responsible feeding is essential. Just keep away from foods that spoil quickly in heat, ensure you regularly clean your bird feeders, and use hanging feeders rather than flat ones. Nutrient-rich and easily digestible foods like sunflower hearts, mealworms and quality seed mixes are ideal during warmer months. Avoid bread and kitchen scraps - keep it safe and simple." Hygiene is also critical, so clean feeders thoroughly once a week and keep bird baths topped up.
Water Plants Deeply and at the Right Time
According to the gardening expert, responsible watering is one of the most important gardening tasks. He said: "Focus on time of day first and foremost; midday sun is not a good time to water. Early morning or evening when temperatures are mild are best, and if I had to choose, morning watering wins because it reduces evaporation, ensuring plants absorb moisture properly." Less frequent but deep watering is ideal during the summer months. Water deeply a few times a week rather than little and often. Hanging baskets and newly planted plants may require more, so it is important to always check by sticking your finger into the soil to see if it is dry.
Support Pollinators in Peak Season
James continued: "July is the peak season for our buzzy friends. Bees, butterflies and other pollinators need reliable nectar sources, and the plants you offer are crucial to help them thrive. Long-flowering favourites such as lavender, helenium and cosmos help keep pollinators fed throughout July. Lavender is a firm favourite of mine as not only does it smell and look gorgeous, it is beneficial for our lovely bees, too."
Natural Pest Control Without Chemicals
Pests often peak in July, but it is important to avoid resorting to chemicals to deter them. Warm, muggy weather sees aphids, slugs, wasps and ants taking over gardens, and they can ruin plants. James recommended encouraging predators such as ladybirds, frogs and birds into the garden by making it insect- and wildlife-friendly to keep pests at bay.
