Outdoor living expert Simon Parry, a TrexPro composite decking installer for Trex and landscape gardener, has revealed a must-do job before July to prevent weeds from growing 'out of control'. According to Parry, regular mowing of your lawn is essential to keep common July weeds like dandelions and clovers at bay. He advises: 'Weed out the worries - It is important to keep weeds under control, so your family doesn’t spend time counting them at the barbecue.'
Why Weeding Matters
Gardening Step by Step explains that weeds compete with desired plants for nutrients, water, and light. Their vigorous root systems can crowd out the roots of your chosen plants, leading to poor growth or even plant death. Removing weeds by hand, using weed pullers, trowels, or weed killers are all effective methods recommended by Parry. He notes that some wildflowers can attract wildlife, so gardeners may want to keep them, but any unwanted weeds should be removed promptly.
Lawn Care Tips for Summer
Parry also shared advice for maintaining a healthy lawn during the hot summer months. He recommends keeping the grass slightly longer to retain moisture, and mowing regularly to encourage growth. 'A slightly longer lawn allows the grass to retain moisture and regular cuts encourage growth. This reduces the stress on your lawn and keeps it healthy,' he said. He also advises avoiding mowing in hot conditions; morning or evening is best to reduce heat stress on both the gardener and the lawn. Additionally, applying a summer fertiliser is beneficial, as it may be the last chance the lawn gets to feed before autumn. Feeding too late in the season can risk rapid growth in winter, making the garden vulnerable to frost and pests.
Impact of Weeds on Garden Plants
Weeds not only compete for resources but can also harbor pests and diseases that affect garden plants. By keeping weeds under control before July, gardeners can ensure their plants thrive during the peak growing season. Parry's advice underscores the importance of proactive garden maintenance to enjoy a beautiful outdoor space throughout the summer.
