Spring is probably the busiest time for the home gardener – but you can get a headstart on those spring jobs as early as August if you’re keen!
- Time to start pruning: most shrubs and woody plants will be just beginning their seasonal growth cycle as the weather starts to warm up and the daylight hours increase. Generally, selective pruning and tip pruning is best carried out while the plant is in active growth, so as soon as the new buds start to swell on deciduous plants, or at the first sign of fresh new growth on evergreen shrubs, you can start pruning for form and size. But be conscious of which shrubs you are growing for their flowers, and avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs until after their display is over, so you don’t prune off any flower buds.
- This is also a great time to start working on your soil – scratching well-rotted garden compost into the top layer is a great way to add carbon and improve the soil characteristics, and the awakening soil microbiome will appreciate the added food.
- Why not try a potted tree or shrub? It’s best to pot most plants outside of the coldest winter months, to ensure the roots are growing and able to recover quickly from being disturbed, and to avoid trapping cold moist soil around new plant roots. Citrus are a classic plant for growing in pots and there are dwarf varieties available for even the smallest gardens. Pot your new tree up into a container one or two sizes bigger than the one it came in, using premium potting mix, water in well and place in a sunny position.
OUTHOUSE offers in-person consultations with qualified horticulturalists to help you get the most value out of your landscape. We can provide verbal advice, planting plans or a full landscape design. Get in touch with us to discuss your needs.
View past tips for August here!
