June Jobs

What to do in the garden in June

June is peak growing season. Borders are full, lawns are thick and vegetables are developing quickly. The focus now shifts from preparation to maintenance. Consistency is what keeps the garden performing through the height of summer.

Temperatures can easily climb above 25°C, so watering becomes critical, especially for containers, hanging baskets and newly planted shrubs. Water deeply rather than little and often, and apply mulch where possible to reduce evaporation and regulate soil temperature.

Growth is fast, which means weeds, pests and diseases are active too. Stay vigilant. Regular deadheading, feeding and monitoring will keep plants flowering longer and looking their best.

And yes, this is the month to enjoy it. The structure and effort from earlier in the year should now be visible. Maintain well, then take time to sit back and appreciate the results.

Ornamental garden jobs in June

• Lightly trim box balls to maintain shape.
• Deadhead salvias, penstemons, roses and other repeat flowering plants to prolong blooms.
• Treat aphids and blackfly promptly using suitable plant care products.
• Weed regularly before competition affects plant growth.
• Prune early flowering clematis once flowering has finished.
• Cut back tulip foliage once fully yellow.
• Trim shrubs to maintain structure and shape.
• Plant warm season grasses such as pennisetum and panicum.
• Control invasive weeds such as bindweed and ground elder carefully.
• Prune ornamental cherries after flowering.
• Sow fast growing annuals such as cosmos for late summer colour.
• Sow winter bedding plants including violas.
• Cut back oriental poppies and pulmonaria after flowering to encourage fresh foliage.
• Fill gaps in borders with hardy annuals.
• Remove reverted shoots from variegated shrubs.

Vegetable garden jobs in June

• Direct sow carrots for autumn and winter harvest.
• Sow Florence fennel and chicory.
• Plant out leeks once they reach pencil thickness.
• Mulch strawberries with straw or matting to protect fruit.
• Water potatoes consistently to support good tuber development.
• Feed tomatoes regularly to encourage strong growth and fruit set.

Other essential garden tasks

• Mow, feed and manage established lawns regularly.
• Plant hanging baskets and keep them well watered.
• Ventilate greenhouses daily to prevent overheating.
• Maintain a steady weeding routine.
• Water thoroughly during hot, dry spells, particularly containers and new plantings.