How to Win at Summer Gardening (Without Losing Your Mind)

There’s something magical about British gardens in the summer. Is it the riot of colour bursting from flowerbeds? The delicious scent of roses on a warm evening? Or perhaps, deep down, it’s just the feeling that you’ve finally managed to outwit your neighbourhood squirrel. Whatever it is, we know the joys (and tribulations) of gardening in the UK are like no other.

Summer gardening here is not for the faint of heart. One day it’s a balmy 25 degrees and you’re basking in sunshine, the next you’re running outside in your slippers, rescuing plant pots from a sudden downpour. Welcome to Broxbourne, where the only thing you can predict about summer weather is that you can’t predict it. But fear not! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just trying to keep your petunias alive, we’ve got your guide to a perfect garden this summer.

Watering: Liquid Gold for Your Plants

Let’s start with the most essential summer task: watering. Here’s a secret – most plants would rather have a long, refreshing drink than a quick daily splash. Think of it as the difference between a proper cup of tea and one of those sad, tepid sips you take when you’re in a hurry. Deep and infrequent watering is the golden rule. Give your beds a good soaking every few days rather than a sprinkle each morning.

Pick your moments! Water early in the morning, before the sun gets bossy, or in the evening when it’s winding down. That way, you lose less water to evaporation and your plants get the most benefit. And always aim for the roots – they’re the thirsty ones, not the leaves. Sprinkling the foliage might seem caring, but it’s a fast track to fungal diseases, and nobody wants mushrooms growing in their roses.

For those with a jungle of hanging baskets and containers, you’ll need to up your game. These dry out faster than a British sense of humour at a German stand-up night. Check them daily, and if it’s particularly hot or windy, give them a second drink in the evening. Water-retaining gel can make your life easier, saving your arms and your water bill.

Don’t forget to check your soil before watering. Stick your finger in about two or three inches. If it’s dry, it’s time to water. If not, your plants will forgive you for holding off.

And here’s a tip for the eco-conscious: collect rainwater in water butts. It’s free, better for your plants, and makes you look very smug indeed when hosepipe bans hit.

Feeding: Fuel for Fabulous Flowers (and Veggies!)

Now, picture your garden as an energetic teenager. All that growth, colour, and fruit takes fuel! Container plants and hanging baskets in particular are hungry creatures – a bit like the guests at your last barbecue. Regular feeding is a must. Use a liquid feed every week or two, especially after heavy watering, which can wash nutrients away.

Got tomatoes or other fruiting vegetables? Switch to a high-potash feed once they flower. Roses, too, appreciate a regular meal. Feed every couple of weeks, and they’ll reward you with blooms that’ll make your neighbours jealous.

If you grow acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons and camellias, keep an eye on those leaves. Yellowing? They probably want a dose of ericaceous feed.

Remember: a little kindness (and fertiliser) goes a long way.

Deadheading: The Secret to Endless Blooms

Deadheading might sound grim, but in gardening, it’s all about giving your plants a second wind. By regularly snipping off spent flowers, you stop plants from setting seed and encourage them to produce more blooms. It’s a bit like tricking them into thinking they still need to impress the bees.

Be gentle but thorough. Cut just above a healthy leaf or bud. With Dahlias and Cosmos, cut back to a leaf joint to encourage bushier growth. Unless you’re collecting seeds or love the look of those dried heads in winter, keep those snips handy and your beds will be all the brighter for it.

Weeding: A Never-Ending Adventure

Let’s be honest – nobody enjoys weeding, but there’s no escaping it. The key is to weed little and often, especially after rain when the soil is soft and weeds come out roots and all. If you let them flower and seed, you’re in for a jungle next year.

On dry days, get out your trusty hoe and slice weeds just below the soil surface. Leave them to dry out and die in the sun. Mulching your borders will not only keep weeds at bay, but also conserve moisture and boost your soil. It’s a triple win!

And here’s a rule: if you spot a weed trying to flower, show it no mercy. Out it goes, before it spreads its seeds and makes your life harder next summer.

Pruning & Tidying: Keeping Up Appearances

Summer is the time to deadhead roses and snip out any weak or crossing stems. Not only does it keep your rosebushes looking good, but it also helps with air circulation and reduces the risk of disease.

Shrubs that flowered in spring, such as Weigela and Philadelphus, should be pruned after their show is over. That gives them time to grow strong and set buds for next year. Tie in climbers before they run wild, and don’t forget your hedges – trim evergreen hedges now or wait until late summer.

Regularly remove yellowing leaves and any diseased foliage, but bin it instead of composting to avoid spreading problems. A tidy garden is not just for show – it’s the best defence against pests and diseases.

Pest & Disease Patrol: Stay Sharp!

No British summer is complete without a few garden villains. Aphids, slugs, snails, red spider mites, and caterpillars are all lurking, ready to munch on your hard work. Keep a keen eye out and act fast.

Aphids can be squashed by hand, blasted off with water, or kept in check by inviting ladybirds. Slugs and snails need barriers or organic pellets – or, if you’re feeling generous, a late-night relocation mission with a torch and a bucket. Red spider mites love dry heat, so increase humidity by misting plants, and hand-pick caterpillars if they appear.

Diseases like powdery mildew and blackspot are also common. Tackle them early with good airflow, regular watering (at the base), and organic sprays if needed. Always try the gentlest, most eco-friendly solution first – the bees and butterflies will thank you.

Lawn Care: Green Carpet Goals

The British lawn is a point of pride, but it doesn’t need to be the stress centre of your summer. Mow regularly, but don’t go too short – a higher cut in summer keeps grass healthy and less thirsty. Only water lawns if they’re new or if we’ve had a drought. Even if your lawn goes brown, don’t panic – it usually greens up once the rains return.

A summer lawn feed can keep things lush, and neat edges will give your garden a professionally manicured look (even if you’re secretly winging it).

Special Summer Projects

Summer isn’t just about maintenance – it’s a great time for new projects! Sow seeds for autumn and winter crops like spinach and hardy greens. Take cuttings from favourite plants to expand your collection or share with friends. Stake tall perennials before they flop over in surprise at their own height.

And if you’re heading away for holiday, give pots a thorough watering before you leave, group them in the shade, and bribe a friendly neighbour with the promise of tomatoes in exchange for keeping things alive.

Observation: The Gardener’s Superpower

Spend a little time in your garden every day. It’s amazing how quickly you’ll notice if something needs attention, whether it’s a wilted leaf, a stealthy pest, or just a flower that deserves a photo. Gardening is about learning and adapting – even the experts get caught out by British weather sometimes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember: nobody’s garden is ever perfect, despite what Instagram suggests.

Show Us Your Gardens!

Now it’s your turn. Have you cracked the code for the perfect Hertfordshire summer garden? Is your lawn greener, your roses rosier, or your veg patch the envy of your neighbours? Snap a photo and send it our way – if your garden is a serious contender for best in the county, we want to see it! Maybe you’ll inspire the next gardener or just give us all something to aim for. Let’s celebrate the beauty, chaos, and triumphs of Broxbourne gardens together.

Happy gardening – and may your summer be more flowers than weeds!

Thanks for Reading!

Have questions or suggestions to improve our newsletter? Got a story to share? Email us at [email protected].

If someone forwarded this email to you, be sure to thank them—and don’t miss out next time! Subscribe here.

Love the newsletter? ☕
Support it by buying me a coffee! Your contribution helps keep this weekly resource alive and thriving. Thank you!

Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

P.S. Want to sponsor our newsletter? Email us at [email protected]

Want your business featured in our next editorial? Sponsor us and reach more locals!
Click here or email to get involved.