Tips for June 

Trees and Shrubs

Several of the shrubs that bloom on wood made during the previous year may be pruned as soon as the flowers fade to enable new shoots as long as possible to mature to carry next year’s blooms.

Climbers and Wall Plants

Half-hardy annual climbers raised under glass can now be planted in sheltered places against sunny walls or fences, or to scramble over pergolas. These climbers will need immediate support as they grow rapidly and the young stems are easily damaged. Water well. Never allow the ground to lack moisture, particularly when grown against walls. Mulch on the surface can aid in moisture retention.

Established climbers and wall plants may now be readily propagated by means of layering.

Roses

Fading flowers should be regularly removed to encourage new blooms. Always cut back to a strong bud or shoot.

Remove any suckers growing from the rootstock as soon as they appear.

Continue to be vigilant for signs of aphids, other pests and disease. Treat as soon as an attack is noticed to prevent spread.

Beds and Borders

Herbaceous perennials – cut back faded blooms, some may produce further blooms later on.

Plant out half-hardy annuals once the danger of frost has past.

Bulbs and Corms

Dahlia tubers not yet planted should be put in as soon as possible.

All plants that need support should be staked at the time of planting.

Rock Gardens and Ponds

Cut back old flowered stems of trailing plants to avoid them seeding.

Continue with weeding and remove any unwanted algae.

Complete the planting of aquatics and alpines as soon as possible .

Lawns

Increase the frequency of mowing to twice a week. If there is a long dry spell raise the mower blades and remove the grass-box for the time being.

Treat any isolated weeds with a spot treatment weedkiller.

Feed with a lawn fertilizer (if this was not already carried out in the spring)

Fruit

Strawberries should be in full production this month. Place straw or special mats under the plants to prevent the fruit from being soiled.

Fruits trained against walls should be watered if necessary – light rain may not be enough. A layer of mulch will aid in moisture retention.

Vegetables

Plant in their final positions crops such as brussels sprouts, sprouting broccoli, summer and winter cabbages, cauliflowers, kales and leeks.

Continue to make regular sowings of lettuces and radishes.

Other crops where further sowings can be made are runner and French beans; beetroot; carrots; endive; peas; Swedes and turnips.

Keep on top of the weeding, by hoeing and by hand, also do any necessary thinning.

Earth-up main crop potatoes to prevent tubers from being exposed to light.

Greenhouse and Frame

On hot summer days ventilate as much as possible and damp down twice a day greenhouse floors and benches to prevent the air from becoming unduly dry.

Shade plants from the midday sun and water as often as necessary.

Continue to pot on seedlings and rooted cuttings as required.

Secure stems of tomatoes to supports and remove side shoots as soon as they appear.

House Plants

Spray or gently sponge leaves of foliage plants with clean tepid water to freshen them up and remove any dust.

Plants can be placed outside for one or two hours on warm days with a very fine rain – they will benefit from fresh rainwater and fresh air.

Be vigilant for any pests – deal with them without delay.