August has come around already, so as we settle into the late summer, what should you being doing in your garden?
August has come around already, so as we settle into the late summer, what should you being doing in your garden? Our knowledgeable experts at Mayfield Nurseries share some of the most important jobs to do in the garden this August and September:
Late Summer is a good time to prune Wisteria this will ensure the plant flowers reliably year after year. It will grow very large and outgrow its allotted space and over time it will cease to flower. Prune all the whippy side-shoots from the main branch framework to about 20cm from their base (about five leaves from the main stem).
Once a plant has flowered and set seed, it will likely stop flowering, regular dead heading can extend the flowering period of the plant long into late summer.
Trim spent flower heads from Lavenders, clip the plant into a neat shape removing any dead branches, this will help to keep the plant from becoming woody and straggly.
Water evergreen shrubs like Camellia and Rhododendron thoroughly this month, this will help next year’s buds to develop. Keep patio container plants well-watered and feed with an ericaceous liquid fertiliser every fortnight. Keep on top of the weeds as they compete with your plants and crops for nutrients and water.
Be vigilant of pests and diseases, remove any diseased foliage and dispose of it in to the bin (do not compost it). Use a good quality systemic insecticide or alternatively make a homemade insecticidal soap wash. Mix a few teaspoons of liquid dish soap, a teaspoon of vegetable oil and water to mix and spray onto the leaves, stems and buds of the plant.
We also have a great selection of perennials and shrubs you can buy to bring some late summer colour and texture to your garden. Drop by Mayfield Nurseries and our friendly and knowledgeable staff can advise you on the best plants for you and your garden.
What’s more, all of our profits are ploughed back into the community, to ensure everyone in Southampton has access to mental health support when they need it. Find out more about the work we do here.
