This month of July in the garden is a time for keeping warm in these cooler climates, and in the northern hemisphere you’ll find the days warming up.
In all regions it is a perfect time to garden (isn’t it always!!) and to enjoy the bounty of the season’s harvest, while considering what to grow for the next season’s crop.
Here’s a few ideas for things to do this month…
For Southern Hemisphere Gardeners –
- In many parts of Australia now is a great time to grow Onions and it’s best to grow the many varieties by sowing seeds. When they germinate (sprout) prick out the strongest seedlings to transplant into your garden. Apply a watering of liquid fertiliser before transplanting to ensure strong growth in plants. Try seeds from diggers.com.au or www.greenharvest.com.au
Radish seeds can be sown directly into prepared gardens or grown as microgreens in shallow trays. Interplant Radish throughout your gardens, amongst other veggies and herbs, for quick harvest crops. Many delicious varieties are available and are a fabulous crop for introducing kids to gardening!!
- Winter is a perfect time to prune stone fruit trees. Cut back old branches and clear out the branches growing into the middle of the tree canopy. This will allow for sun, good air-flow and new growth for flowers and fruiting. Also apply an organic slow release fertiliser onto soil, around drip-line, to feed trees prior to Spring.
- If you’re finding the weather too cool outside in the garden, then spend time in a sunny, warm spot planning your spring crops. Now is the time to plan next season crops, order seeds or prepare the soil for new fruit trees. Review your garden plans and wish list to start preparing for the warmer weather. See my recent article on planning your garden for some inspirations – How to Plan Your Perfect Garden
- Now’s a perfect time to tidy your garden shed and give your tools and gardening equipment some care. Follow my guide in this article HERE.
For Northern Hemisphere Gardeners –
- With the weather warming up keep up to date on lawn care. Add extra nutrients and moisture, if needed, and remove any weeds growing through the lawns.
- Dead-heading summer flowers is a job that can be done as you’re meandering around the garden. Keep a set of sharp secateurs in your pocket or garden kit to trim old flowers regularly as this encourages new flowers to bloom. Place garden prunings into the compost!
- Herbs to grow now include French Tarragon, Chives, Oregano and Mint. Keep the water up to container grown herbs and repot Mint if it’s outgrowing its home. Keep it out of the garden as it can take over!!
- When chances of frost have passed, transplant seedlings that have grown undercover into gardens outside. To help them acclimatise to the outdoor conditions, harden-off plants to prepare them for the change in growing environment. This gradual process could take 2 to 3 weeks to ensure plants are fully prepared for the change in conditions. You’ll find more information on the RHS website here - www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=386
- Harvest summer crops regularly. This provides you with regular fresh food to enjoy and also promotes new growth in plants. Harvest leafy greens as needed as they are at their highest nutritional value when first picked.
- Harvest and cook Globe Artichokes from July onwards. Here’s a
delicious recipe to try – Globe Artichoke Recipes
Image courtesy of Green Harvest (www.greenharvest.com.au)
Happy Independence Day on the 4th July to all our American gardeners!! Sending you all blessings xxx
Wherever you are located enjoy some time out in nature. If you’re looking for inspiring places to visit try your local community garden, city farm, neighbourhood or the beautiful natural spaces all around. Nature provides inspiration everywhere, we just have to look.
Looking for guidance in your garden?
Here’s three ways I can support you now!
- You’ll find information on many gardening topics, plus steps to grow your plants through our articles and podcasts. Have a look at topics here…
- Ask a Question in our Free Facebook Club. It’s also a great place to connect with other gardeners and share your gardening wins.
- Join the Gardening Community. This is the one location online to help you with success in the garden! From gardening guides, masterclasses, courses, videos, other resources and our member forum, you’ll connect, learn & grow with confidence. Plus access one-on-one support from me. Find out more here…www.soiltosupper.com/community/
Helping you learn, grow and thrive.
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Until next month “Happy Growing”
Cath
© cath manuel 2 july 2015
