Dead head faded blooms, but leave some to turn into seedheads for the birds. Trim lavender plants by removing flower stalks and about 2.5cm of the current year’s growth. Hoe to keep on top of any weeds. Prune the wispy growth on wisterias, back to 5-7 leaves.
Prune climbing and rambling roses after they have flowered, unless they are repeat flowering. Prune summer flowering shrubs after they have flowered. Cut down wildflower meadows. Ensure Camellias and Rhododendrons are well-watered to encourage good flower bud formation next spring.
Water plants thoroughly when needed instead of every day. Thorough watering can support plants for up 14 days, while just wetting the surface wastes water, encourages weeds and can lead to surface rooting making the plants more vulnerable. Feed containers and tired perennial borders with a liquid tomato food each week to encourage them into early autumn. Lift and store onions, shallots and garlic when the tops have gone brown and bent over.
Continue to pick fast maturing vegetables such as beans, peas and courgettes to encourage further cropping. Pinch out the tips of climbing beans when they reach the top of their supports. Make sure you leave a shallow container with water for wildlife.
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