Well, hello June! The month where the garden is really hitting its stride and so are we—though I must admit, my muscles are feeling every bit of the work we've put in so far. There's a certain satisfaction that comes from those long days spent outdoors, isn't there? The smell of tomato plants being pruned, that feeling of revitalizing the edges around the flower beds, the joy of pulling the weeds with the roots intact and the sight of all our hard work coming to life. Sure, it's exhausting, but in the best possible way.
By now, the garden is thriving. Those seedlings we nurtured indoors and carefully planted in May are loving the outdoors, the summer perennials are starting to show some buds and everything else (let’s hope) seems to go to plan. It’s a busy month, no doubt about it. Dividing perennials, tidying up after our alliums, ordering more plants, finishing up any last-minute planting, fertilizing to keep our plants in top shape, and, of course, the never-ending battle with weeds. Each task is a piece of the larger puzzle, ensuring that our gardens remain healthy and beautiful.
Dividing perennials
If you've noticed that some of your plants are looking a bit crowded, it's time to give them some breathing room (The saying “More is better” does not really apply here) By dividing perennials, you're not only helping the original plant but also creating new ones to fill in other parts of your garden. Simply dig up the plant (Making sure you get plenty of roots), separate it into smaller sections (Depending how big the perennials have expanded, you might be able to get 2 or 3 new plants from the main plant) and replant them in their new homes. This process might seem daunting, but it's well worth the effort for healthier, more vigorous plants.
Allium Foliage
Next, let's talk about those alliums. As much as we love their tall, dramatic blooms, their foliage can start to look a bit unsightly once they finish flowering. Now's the time to remove that yellowing foliage. Removing these dead looking foliage helps prevent any potential diseases from taking hold. Don’t want to get rid of the heads just yet? Just be sure to leave the flower heads if you like their architectural interest.
Planning ahead: Ordering Tulip bulbs
While we’re fully enjoying the summer garden, it might seem strange to think about next spring. But for those of us who love a colorful spring garden, now is actually the perfect time to order tulip bulbs for planting in the fall. You might wonder why we’re thinking so far ahead— Ordering bulbs now, in June, ensures you get the best selection. The most popular and unique varieties can sell out quickly, so by ordering early, you can secure your favorites.
Planting
June is also the final call for any planting you've been putting off. Whether it's annuals, vegetables, or late-season bloomers, get them in the ground now so they have time to establish before the heat of summer really sets in. Remember, happy plants start with well-prepared soil, so take the time to dig in some compost and give your new additions a warm welcome.
Here are a few seeds you can still direct sow in your kitchen garden to ensure a decent harvest: Basil, Squash, Pumpkins, Cucumbers, Beets & Green Beans.
Weeding
Augh … the never-ending task that keeps our gardens looking their best. June is prime time for weeds, and if left unchecked, they can quickly take over. Make it a habit to spend a few minutes each day pulling weeds, and you'll prevent them from setting seed and spreading even further. Plus, it's a great way to get up close and personal with your plants, checking for any signs of pests or disease.
Fertilizing Annuals
As your annual plants grow, they'll need a little extra boost to keep them going strong. This is where fertilizing comes into play. These plants grow quickly and produce abundant flowers, so they need a steady supply of nutrients to keep up the pace.
Here’s how to ensure your annuals get the best possible care:
Understanding fertilizers: They come in many forms: granular, liquid, slow-release, and organic. Each has its benefits, but for annuals, liquid or water-soluble fertilizers are often the best choice because they provide a quick nutrient boost that supports fast growth and flowering.
NPK Ratio: When choosing a fertilizer, look at the NPK ratio on the label. This stands for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K):
- Nitrogen pretty much means nice green leaves.
- Phosphorus is all about the roots baby.
- Potassium helps with overall plant health.
For annuals, a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or one slightly higher in phosphorus like 10-20-10 will encourage more blooms, liquid fertilizers can be mixed with water and applied while watering your plants. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dilution and application frequency but overall, applying every 2-4 weeks will be very beneficial for your annual blooms.
June is a month of hard work, it's normal to feel a bit tired and sore (and even frustrated), but it's the good kind of tired, the kind that comes from doing something meaningful and rewarding. As you sip your evening tea (or a Margarita perhaps), take a look around your garden and feel proud of what you've achieved. Every flower, every leaf, and every inch of your green oasis is a testament to your dedication and love for gardening.
Keep up the great work, enjoy every moment, and happy gardening, everyone!
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