Welcome to another month in the garden! August is a time of abundance and transition in the UK, especially here in the Midlands. As a professional gardener with over 15 years of experience, I've compiled a list of essential tasks to keep your garden looking its best during the late summer.
Quick Answer
August is the time to deadhead flowers, harvest crops, keep on top of weeding, and prepare for autumn planting. Prune hedges and keep lawns neat.
General Garden Maintenance
August is often warm and dry, so watering becomes a priority. It’s best to water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation.
- Water deeply but less frequently to encourage root growth
- Deadhead flowers to prolong blooming
- Keep on top of weeding to prevent competition with your plants
Harvesting and Planting
This is a busy month for harvesting, especially if you've been growing fruit and vegetables. Make sure to pick crops regularly to encourage further production.
| Crop | Harvest | Plant |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Harvest | N/A |
| Carrots | N/A | Plant for overwintering |
Preparing for Autumn
As summer winds down, it's time to think ahead. Consider planting autumn bulbs like tulips and daffodils for spring colour.
In Staffordshire, we start planning for the cooler months by planting winter greens and organising the garden shed.
Lawn Care and Hedge Cutting
Your lawn may need a bit of extra care in August. Keep it trimmed but avoid cutting too short in hot weather to prevent stress.
Hedges should be pruned this month. A good rule is to trim them before the end of August to avoid disturbing nesting birds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my garden in August?
It's best to water deeply once or twice a week rather than lightly every day. This encourages deeper root growth and makes plants more drought-resistant.
Can I still plant new flowers in August?
Yes, you can plant certain perennials and biennials for next year. It's also a good time to sow seeds for autumn and winter crops.
What should I do with deadheading?
Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and prevent plants from going to seed, which can extend the flowering season.