August in the Garden

Hopefully we can look forward to a little less rain for the rest of the month.  You may need to continue with pest control throughout the garden. Enjoy your garden but there are many chores to keep up with this month.

LAWNS

Regular mowing is now required but remember to vary the blade height according to the weather, not too low if we have a dry spell. You should spike your lawn to allow rainwater to feed those roots. Continue to use fungiscides to rid the lawn weed and renovate any damaged areas.

ROSES

In order to get long stem roses, remove any small buds with your fingers to allow the main stem to grow. Continue with pest control.  Remember to hoe the soil for aeration. Also time to think about and plan late autumn planting for next year

HERBACEOUS BORDERS

Cut back any flowers that have finished flowering.  Trim dead heads from others, and keep plants well supported especially in windy weather.  For sweet pea mulch and water as needed. Fertilise others such as chrysanthemums.  Take cuttings for the house 

Time to plan the autumn chores and even start planting daffodil bulbs. 

TREES & SHRUBS

Keep any grass away from the trunks of shrubs and trees and remove any self sown trees or shrubs such as sycamore or ash. Prune shrubs that have finished flowering.

PATIOS & DECKING

Patio pots will need regular watering now.  Remove dead heads and top dress the pots . Make sure pots are in a shady place when the sun is hottest.

VEGETABLES

Now is the time to sow winter cabbage seeds  and also lettuce for early winter. On the herd front take cuttings from mint, sage or rosemary and put in pots.

Monkeypuzzle.ie will be delighted to help with any of the above or any other garden or landscaping matters.  Please call Daragh at 012897751