June

June 21st marks the longest day of the year. All of that light, and the warmer temperatures coupled with regular showers are a recipe for rapid plant growth.

As the global temperature rises we are increasingly witnessing more extreme weather conditions, be it hot, cold, dry or wet. We can’t assume that the rain will fall as and when it is needed, so this issue will include water-wise gardening tips.

Rainwater harvesting

Collecting rainwater that would normally run into your drains is cheaper than paying for water from the mains. It’s also better for plants as it contains valuable nitrogen and other nutrients but not traces of water purification chemicals which can be harmful to (particularly young) plants. Visit www.getcomposting.com for great value water butts available to residents of East Sussex; prices start at £42.99 or check out your local garden centre.

Mulching

Different materials can be spread over the soil around plants to reduce evaporation - including grass cuttings, wood chips and even stones or pebbles. Some plants thrive in the heat but don’t like their roots to get too hot e.g. chillies and sweet peppers. If you have foil takeaway containers waiting to be recycled, try flattening them and placing them over the soil surface. This will reflect heat as well as reducing evaporation. Once your plants have finished with them, you can still recycle them.

Timely watering

Choose early morning or later evening to water thirsty plants to avoid moisture being quickly dried up by the sun, giving it a chance to reach down to the roots of plants where it’s needed. It’s better to give a thorough soaking less frequently than a little splash more often.

Look after the little ones

Established plants can be quite resilient to drought, it’s the younger ones with less established root systems that are more vulnerable, so if you’re rationing water, prioritise the youngest.

Wise weeding

An additional bonus of keeping on top of the weeding means you will only be watering the plants you need to, not those cheeky weeds that also steal space and nutrition from the plants you do want to grow.

Careful clearing

Nature is busy reproducing at this time so take care not to disturb nesting birds or mammals. Baby hedgehogs (hoglets) are born during June and July so be extra cautious around the base of hedges or other potential nesting grounds. Having hedgehogs around is excellent organic slug control!

Enjoy the view

Take some time to enjoy the plants, creatures, colours, smells, textures and shapes in your garden at this lovely time of year. There are always more jobs to do, but don’t forget to sit back and enjoy your space; maybe with a cup or tea or glass of elderflower fizz you may have recently made!

Want the garden waste collection service?

Wealden’s Garden Waste Service enables residents to subscribe to have up to four garden waste bins emptied on a fortnightly basis. To sign up or renew, please visit www.wealden.gov.uk/gardenwaste. For existing customers, please renew by 16 July to ensure collections continue in August. Happy gardening!