july
More deadheading then weeding and feeding. Roses
grown in containers need a liquid feed fortnightly
till buds form - don't let them dry out! Mulching
roses is very important to keep their roots happy. I
find hanging baskets aren't always the greatest success
with long hot summers unless you're prepared
to water twice daily. You should have masses of cut
flowers.
SEPTEMBER
There's often a spurt in growth now, weather is still
warm and there's usually a little more rain. Keep on
top of weeding and deadheading and you'll still have
flowers. My flowering sage plants continue to bloom
- great in a vase. Bulbs will be making an appearance
in garden centres and supermarkets, make your choice
now before they disappear.
AUGUST
Deadheading and tidying is a continuing
process and in this hottest of months copious
watering is essential. It's also the
time to start harvesting any crops and
making preserves. Feed and monitor your
roses for black spot or mildew. Dahlias
will be coming along nicely - I've been
lucky in my garden and have managed to
over-winter them in the ground in a warm
sheltered spot, later summer plants like
rudbeckia and echinacea will also be coming into
their own.