Gardening jobs in August

August may feel like the height of summer, but it’s also a crucial month in the gardening calendar. With long, warm days and a hint of autumn on the horizon, there’s plenty to do to keep your garden vibrant and productive.

1. Harvest Time

Many fruits and vegetables are ready for picking in August. Tomatoes, courgettes, beans, and sweetcorn are often at their best now. Keep harvesting regularly to encourage new growth and avoid gluts.

2. Water Wisely

Hot weather means your garden may need more attention when it comes to watering. Prioritize early morning or late evening watering to reduce evaporation, and focus on the roots, not the leaves.

3. Deadhead and Prune

Keep flowers blooming longer by deadheading spent blooms. Lightly prune summer shrubs like lavender once they’ve finished flowering to keep them tidy and vigorous.

4. Sow for Autumn and Winter

It’s not too late to sow crops like spinach, kale, and pak choi for a fresh supply into autumn. You can also start thinking about winter salads in a greenhouse or under cloches.

5. Lawn Care

August is a good time to scarify and aerate your lawn, especially if it’s looking tired after a hot summer. Consider sowing grass seed on any bare patches while the soil is still warm.

6. Plan Ahead

Start thinking about spring-flowering bulbs. Nurseries will soon stock daffodils, tulips, and crocuses, so make a list of what you want and where you’ll plant them.

Whether you’re harvesting, tidying, or sowing anew, August is a great time to enjoy the rewards of your gardening efforts and prepare for the seasons ahead. Happy gardening! 🌱