Gardening in July: Sizzling Summer Tasks and Seeds

As the pinnacle of summer approaches, gardens across the land radiate with vibrant colors, delightful fragrances, and bustling activity. July is a month where gardeners both reap the rewards of their earlier efforts and look ahead to ensure a continuous display of beauty and bounty. So, while you're enjoying sun-soaked afternoons amidst your blooms, here are some essential gardening tasks for July and a list of seeds perfect for sowing right now.

Gardening Tasks for July:

General Maintenance:

• Pruning: Some early-flowering shrubs like Philadelphus and Weigela will benefit from a post-flower prune.
• Watering: Prioritize early morning or late evening watering to prevent water evaporation and ensure plants get the most from every drop.
• Feeding: Apply a liquid feed to containers, hanging baskets, and roses to boost their health and flowering potential.

Greenhouse Care:

• Shading: As the sun strengthens, protect your plants by shading the greenhouse and ensuring ample ventilation.
• Pest Control: Be vigilant against greenhouse pests such as aphids and whiteflies. Employ natural predators or gentle organic pesticides to maintain a healthy environment.

Lawn Maintenance:

• Mowing: Keep mowing regularly but adjust the blade height to a medium level to prevent scorching during hotter days.
• Watering: Water your lawn once a week deeply rather than a light sprinkle every day to encourage deep root growth.

Seeds to Sow in July:

Vegetables:

• Speedy Salads: Lettuce, rocket, and other salad leaves can be sown for a continuous summer crop.
• Root Vegetables: It’s a good time to sow carrots and turnips for a late autumn harvest.
• Winter Greens: Think of cooler days by sowing Swiss chard and pak choi.

Flowers:

• Late Bloomers: Sow biennials like Sweet William and Bellis for colorful displays next spring.
• Continuous Beauty: Quick-growing flowers like Calendula and Nigella can be sown for late summer and early autumn blossoms.

Herbs:

• Aromatic Delights: Keep sowing coriander, basil, and chervil for a fresh supply.

Harvest Time:

July also signifies harvest for many fruits and veggies. Relish the fresh flavors of your garden as beans, early tomatoes, courgettes, and summer berries ripen for the picking.



July is a delightful dance of savoring the present and planning for the future. Amidst the warmth and hum of summer, continue to nurture your garden, ensuring it remains a haven of productivity and pleasure. As you tend to your garden, remember to also bask in its beauty, enjoying the serene moments it offers. Happy gardening!