June marks the official start of summer, bringing longer days, warmer temperatures, and the full splendor of your garden in bloom. This month is crucial for maintaining the beauty established in spring and preparing your outdoor spaces for the heat ahead. At Estes Landscaping, we’re here to guide you through this vibrant season with tips to keep your garden lush and thriving.
Prioritize Watering
As the temperatures rise, so does the importance of watering. Early morning is the best time to water your garden, as it reduces evaporation and allows water to soak deeply into the soil, encouraging deeper root growth. Consider installing a drip irrigation system for efficient watering that targets plant roots directly and conserves water.
Mulch to Conserve Moisture
Mulching is not just a spring activity; refreshing your mulch layer in June can help retain soil moisture, keep roots cool, and suppress weed growth. A 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around plants and in garden beds can make a significant difference in plant health during the heat of summer.
Manage Pests and Diseases
Warm weather can bring about a variety of pests and diseases. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of trouble and take action early to prevent spread. Natural and organic pest control methods can be effective and are preferable for maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem.
Deadheading and Pruning
Keep your flowering plants looking their best by deadheading spent blooms. This encourages plants to produce more flowers and extends the blooming period. June is also a good time to prune spring-flowering shrubs once they’ve finished blooming to shape them for next year’s growth.
Plant Heat-Loving Vegetables and Herbs
For vegetable gardens, June is an excellent time to plant heat-loving vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and eggplants if you haven’t already. It’s also perfect for sowing seeds of herbs such as basil, cilantro, and dill directly into the garden or in containers.
Create Shaded Retreats
As the summer sun intensifies, creating shaded areas in your garden can provide a welcome retreat for both you and your plants. Consider adding a pergola, gazebo, or shade sails to protect sensitive plants and create a comfortable space for outdoor living.
Lawn Care in the Heat
Adjust your lawn care practices to accommodate the summer heat. Raise the cutting height of your mower to leave grass taller, which shades the soil and conserves moisture. Water your lawn deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth, which helps grass withstand drought.
Enjoy Your Garden
Take time to enjoy the beauty and bounty of your garden. Early summer evenings are perfect for relaxing outdoors and appreciating the colors, fragrances, and sounds of nature. Whether it’s hosting a garden party, enjoying meals al fresco, or simply taking in the tranquility of your outdoor space, make the most of these long summer days.
How Estes Landscaping Can Help
At Estes Landscaping, we understand the joys and challenges of gardening in June. Whether you need help with garden maintenance, pest management, or creating shaded outdoor living areas, our team of experts is here to assist. Let’s make this summer one of growth, beauty, and enjoyment in your garden.