July is a month that invites you to unwind and bask in the beauty of your garden. With clear blue skies and abundant sunshine, nature’s canvas comes alive with vibrant growth. During this time, your main focus should be on weeding and watering to ensure the health and vitality of your plants. In particular, water features like ponds and water gardens are at their peak, attracting a variety of wildlife to your garden. While you take pleasure in your own garden, don’t forget that July is also the perfect opportunity to explore and visit other gardens.
Monthly Reminders
Flower Gardens
To extend the delightful displays of flowering plants, it is important to keep up with deadheading. This process involves removing faded blooms, allowing new ones to take their place. Regularly hoeing and weeding your beds and borders will help control weed growth and promote a healthy soil surface. If you have any empty spaces in your garden, July is the ideal time to fill them with new pot-grown herbaceous plants or colourful annual bedding plants. You can find a wide range of options available at Farnborough Garden Centre, ensuring your garden remains a breathtaking sight.
Water Gardens
Adding new plants to your water garden is still possible in July, and it is essential to maintain the neatness and tidiness of existing plants. Keep a close eye on water levels and top them up regularly, especially if you have fish. Some ponds may experience oxygen shortage, so if you lack a fountain or waterfall, spraying the surface with water from a garden hose can help oxygenate the water. This simple technique ensures a healthy aquatic environment for your plants and wildlife.
Hedges
Conifer hedges, particularly Leylandii, should be trimmed to maintain control and encourage thicker growth. On the other hand, hedges such as Beech, Hornbeam, and Holly should be cut later in the month. By tending to your hedges, you create well-defined boundaries and add structure to your garden.
Pots and Containers
For stunning displays that continue into autumn, it is crucial to water and feed your baskets and containers regularly. During hot spells, you may need to water them twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening. Even when it rains, the lush foliage can prevent the water from reaching the compost in the containers or baskets. Deadheading and pruning as required will ensure the plants keep flowering and prevent the formation of seed heads. If you wish to enhance your displays, you can find a variety of ready-planted baskets and containers at Farnborough Garden Centre, showcasing the latest offerings and looking spectacular.
Lawns
Regular mowing and trimming are essential to keep your lawn in top shape. However, it is advisable to raise the blades during long, dry spells to retain more leaf area and help the grass cope with the dry conditions. Consider leaving the grass box off during dry periods to allow the clippings to mulch the lawn, providing natural nutrients. While established lawns may turn brown in hot weather, they will typically recover quickly after rainfall. However, new lawns require extra care and should not be allowed to dry out, especially newly laid turf. If possible, it is best to create new lawns in early spring or autumn, when weather conditions are more favourable.
Roses
Continuing to deadhead old blooms is crucial for roses. However, it’s important to do this carefully by cutting back to a bud in a lower leaf axil, as this encourages new growth and ensures a continuous display of beautiful roses. Feeding your roses with a purpose-made rose food will aid in their growth. It’s also important to remain vigilant for pests and diseases and treat them accordingly with a regular spray routine.
Vegetables
In July, it’s crucial to keep your vegetables well-watered to prevent “bolting” and promote healthy growth. If time is limited, you may consider using a “leaky pipe” system, which directs water directly to the roots where it’s needed most. Basic leaky pipe systems are available at Farnborough if you’re interested in trying one. Harvest your vegetables regularly, opting to enjoy them when they are young and at their peak flavour.
Plants Looking Good Now
Some plants that are particularly thriving and looking splendid in July include Japanese Acers, Roses, Clematis, Photinias, Fuchsias, Pelargoniums, Begonias, Geraniums, Hanging Baskets, Planted Containers, and Impatiens. The trees and shrubs in our selection are in full leaf, offering a visual delight for any garden enthusiast. We have expanded our range to include many new varieties, ensuring that you have plenty of options to choose from.
Adding Color and Interest
Many people choose to enhance their patio or decking areas in July by adding new containers that bring extra color and interest to their outdoor spaces. At Farnborough, we offer a wide selection of stone, timber, plastic, and terra cotta pots and containers at attractive “special offer” prices. You’ll find an abundance of choices to suit your style and preferences.
Stoneware, Bird Baths, and Garden Ornaments
Our collection of stoneware, bird baths, and garden ornaments continues to grow, offering you a diverse range of options. Whether you’re looking for a unique focal point or a whimsical addition to your garden, we have finishes and styles that will captivate your imagination. Explore our selection and find the perfect pieces to elevate the charm of your outdoor sanctuary.
A Perfect Ending to Your Visit
After exploring the garden centre, taking in the gift areas, and discovering the newest arrivals at the “TREASURED TEDDIES” Bear shop, we invite you to complete your visit with a delightful Farmhouse Ice Cream or a refreshing hot/cool drink in our small but cosy refreshment area. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re always delighted to welcome you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit other gardens?
July is an ideal time to explore and visit other gardens and gain inspiration for your own. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and indulge in the beauty of different landscapes.
- How often should I water my baskets and containers during hot spells?
During hot spells, it’s advisable to water your baskets and containers twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening. This ensures that the plants receive sufficient hydration.
- Can I create a new lawn in July?
While it’s generally recommended to create new lawns in early spring or autumn, July can still be a suitable time if you provide proper care and watering to establish the turf.
- What are some plants that thrive in July?
In July, plants such as Japanese Acers, Roses, Clematis, Fuchsias, and Pelargoniums are known to flourish. These plants add vibrancy and beauty to any garden.
- What should I do to keep my vegetables healthy in July?
To keep your vegetables healthy in July, ensure they are well-watered, prevent “bolting,” and encourage growth. Consider using a “leaky pipe” system to provide water directly to the roots, especially if you have limited time for watering.
