January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

General Care

The sun is at its strongest in June. Keep soil moist, remember to water new plants. Weed often to keep them down. Look for signs of pests and diseases and take early action to keep them under control.

Flower beds

Make sure tall plants are staked or tied. Weeds will be at their most virulent. Hoeing between plants and shrubs aids weed removal.

Lawn

Mow regularly but in dry weather do not cut too short as this allows the lawn to dry too quickly and for surface leaves to die.

Pond

If you have a pump then run it to help oxygenate the water. Plants begin to grow at an alarming rate. Thin out surface cover to ensure that light reaches the lower levels but remember that more light brings more algae and blanket weed. Run a UV filter to help reduce algae. Watch out for pests on aquatic plants with stems, leaves and flowers above water. Do not use pesticides or you may kill your fish.

Greenhouse

Keep the atmosphere damp, plants like cucumbers need to be damp but not rotting. It is so easy for your greenhouse to dry out and for everything to die. Move plants out to cold frames if you have them as this reduces the need to water.

Vegetables

Plant Brussels sprouts for winter picking. Plant outdoor tomatoes now. Other vegetables to be planted now include, marrows, spinach, leeks, cabbages and broccoli.

Indoors

Remember to water and feed your houseplants. This is the time of year you may go away on holiday. Make sure your houseplants do not suffer. Plants like fresh air with the humidity it brings but they do not like being in draughts. Watch for green and white fly and deal with straight away. Don’t leave it too late.