Organic gardening is a big commitment but it can be rewarding, keeping your garden pest and disease-free with careful preparation. A good crop rotation and regular observation also helps prevent problems.
The key to success in a small vegetable garden is to stagger your sowing and group crops by type – tomato plants, snow peas and chillies together for example. Also consider planting duo fruit trees that combine two different types of fruit on one tree.
David Mitchell, buying manager for garden and seasonal at Homebase has shared the four gardening tasks gardeners need to do this month.
David said: “You’ve picked up your new barbecue, hosed down the garden furniture and you’re ready for the great British BBQ season.
“Now it’s time to get those tasks done in prep for a packed calendar of parties and relaxing Sundays in the sun.”
1. Plants
One of the tasks gardeners can do this month is neaten up their borders.
While it’s not too late to plant, June is about maintenance. Gardeners need to fill in gaps, weed borders and keep plants well-fed.
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David added: “Try using a liquid plant feed to keep them flowering all year long.”
2. Watering
The gardening expert suggested watering plants in the morning as it won’t scorch the plants and they will have plenty of time to dry out throughout the day.
He suggested weeding beds and borders in the evening when the ground is dry.
3. Planting crops
David said this weather is perfect for growing fruit. He said if you’re a beginner, strawberries are a great place to start.
He added: “Make sure you remove any flowers – meaning the plant puts all its energy into growing more delicious fruits for your Eton mess and Victoria sponges.”
4. Lawn care
June is a prime month for lawn care, especially when it comes to mowing.
Another common problem in June is a yellowing lawn. If this is a common problem, the experts suggested trying a higher blade setting on the mower.
He explained: “Try a higher blade setting on your mower to avoid cutting the grass too low and try a liquid iron supplement to give the colour and strength a boost.
“If you have bare patches, try a lawn thickener that is packed with seeds and nutrients. Make sure to keep your new patches well-watered and aerated too.”
To keep maintenance easy all year round, gardeners need to make sure they regularly mow the lawn, even on cold crisp days. Aeration and regular watering are also essential.
Source: express.co.uk
