The Gardener's Almanac

Overview ;

Most of the bedding plants should be planted out by now, so this month can be dedicated to tidying up and dividing established plants.

 

Then; as always, try to keep on top of the weeds, and be on the look out for pests and diseases.

 

Week No. 23 - 3rd to 9th

 

• Plant out Canna, and Petunia,

 

• Pinch out tops of Salpiglossis plants to encourage them to 'bush' up.

 

• Tie in Clematis,and Lilies, as necessary.

 

• Deadhead roses, cut out any suckers and give plants a feed.

 

• Deadhead Delphiniums and Lupins if flowers have faded.

 

• Commence feeding programme for Alstoemeria,and Chrysanthemums.

 

• Keep a look out for Azalea gall, Thrips & Spider mite, and viruses on Gladioli.

 

• Keep a look out fot Scarlet Lily beetles.

 

Week No. 24 - 10th to 16th

 

• Divide Muscari if required.

 

• Feed Alstroemeria, Celosia, Chrysanthemums, Zinnia.

 

• Collect seed pods from Genista and. Lupins ( if required.)

 

Week No. 25 - 17th to 23rd

 

• Cut Aquilegia stems down to ground level after flowering, and collect seeds if required.

 

• Place potted Brugmansia, Datura, outdoors for the summer.

 

• Sow Chieranthus, Digitalis, Wallflower insitu.

 

• Remove crown bud from Dahlias to promote bushyness.

 

Week No. 26 - 24th to 30th

 

• Plant out Gaillardia, Nerine,

 

• Transplant Kniphofia into nursery bed.

 

• Layer Azalea, Laurus, Rhododendrons,

 

• Divide Calathea, Colchicums, Cyclamen, Iris reticulata, Lewisia, Primula, Strelitzia if required.

 

• Secure bud on Chrysanthemums and fix greaseproof protective bags on early disbud varieties.

 

• Feed Dahlias, Cimbing / Rambling roses,

 

• Summer prune Hedera,

 

• Be on guard for signs of pests and diseases on Polygonatum, Roses, treat plants if symptoms appear.