June brings long days, warmer temperatures, and plenty of sunshine (we hope!) to gardens across the UK. Whether you’re tending a small urban plot, a sprawling country garden, or just a few containers on a balcony, there’s plenty to be getting on with.
Caring for flowers & ornamentals
Deadhead regularly
Remove spent blooms from roses, bedding plants, and perennials to encourage more flowers and prolong the display. This also helps the plant conserve energy.
Sow biennials
Now’s a great time to sow biennials such as foxgloves, wallflowers, and sweet williams for flowering next spring.
Stake tall plants
Support tall or top-heavy plants like delphiniums and peonies before wind or rain flattens them. Use canes or metal supports and tie in gently with garden twine.
Keep weeds at bay
Warm weather and longer days mean weeds grow quickly. Regular hoeing and mulching will help suppress them.
Tend your fruit & vegetables
1. Sow salad crops
Continue sowing fast-growing crops like lettuce, rocket, radishes, and spring onions every couple of weeks for a steady supply.
2. Feed hungry plants
Tomatoes, courgettes, and cucumbers are growing fast and will benefit from a high-potash feed to encourage fruits.
3. Pinch out side shoots
For cordon tomatoes, pinch out the side shoots regularly to concentrate energy into fruit production.
4. Thin fruit
Apple and pear trees may produce too much fruit. Thin them to avoid broken branches and to encourage larger, healthier produce.
Maintain trees, shrubs & lawns
1. Trim hedges
Early summer is ideal for trimming formal hedges like box, privet, and yew. Check for nesting birds first!
2. Prune spring flowering shrubs
If you haven’t done so already, prune shrubs like forsythia and chaenomeles after flowering to shape and rejuvenate them.
3. Mow lawn weekly
Grass grows quickly in June, so mow weekly and raise the cutting height slightly in very dry weather to reduce stress on the lawn.
4. Watch for pests
Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids, vine weevils, and lily beetles. Deal with infestations promptly using natural or chemical controls.
Watering & General Care
1. Water wisely
Water in the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation. Prioritise pots, hanging baskets, and newly planted specimens.
2. Mulch to retain moisture
A layer of mulch around plants helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Use compost, bark, or straw depending on the area.
3. Clean and tidy
Keep paths, patios, and greenhouse areas tidy. Remove algae and moss build-up for safety and aesthetics.
4. Enjoy your garden!
Take time to sit back and appreciate all your hard work. June is the perfect month to enjoy the beauty and productivity of your garden.
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