Prune early-summer flowering shrubs, such as Philadelphus, once they have finished flowering. Cut back flowered growth to a strong lower shoot and thin out up to a fifth of old, woody stems. Cut back hardy geraniums to ground level after they have had their first flush of flowers to encourage new foliage and more flowers later in the year.
Divide congested clumps of bearded iris after flowering. Dead head bedding plants, roses and herbaceous plants to encourage more flowers. Make sure fruit trees and bushes are well watered to support the developing fruits. Stone fruit trees such as plums and cherries can be pruned this month.
Remove crossing branches to maintain an open framework. Thin out the fruit on fruit trees to allow the tree to put its energy into the remaining fruits. Pinch out climbing beans when they reach the top of their supports. Water courgettes consistently so they continue to crop well. Keep tomatoes well watered to prevent blossom end rot and pinch out sideshoots to encourage the plants to put their energy into producing flowers. Avoid trimming hedges until birds have finished nesting.
Always check hedges before trimming. Leave out water and meat-based dog or cat food for hedgehogs. Babies emerge this month, so the extra food will help them to fatten up before they go into hibernation in the autumn. Cut down perennial meadows this month, but check the area for creatures hiding in the area before doing so.
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