Gardening expert Tom Brown, Head Gardener at West Dean Garden in West Sussex, has outlined seven essential jobs that UK gardeners must complete in June to keep their gardens in top shape. From controlling weeds to pruning and planting vegetables, these tasks are crucial for a thriving garden.
Weeding: The Top Priority
Tom Brown emphasizes that June is the prime growing season for both desired plants and weeds. He advises keeping weeds under control but notes that many weeds benefit pollinators. For annual weeds like Groundsel or Hairy Bittercress, a hoe can be used to cut them just below the soil surface. Perennial weeds such as nettles or Japanese knotweed require complete removal, avoiding compost disposal. In extreme cases, he suggests replacing infested beds with lawn to exhaust weeds.
Pruning Philadelphus (Mock Orange)
Once philadelphus finishes flowering, it should be pruned to encourage regrowth and blooming next spring. Remove dead stems and shape the plant for a balanced appearance.
Pruning Weigela
Weigela, known for its bee-attracting flowers, needs pruning after blooming. Cut spent flower stems back to a strong shoot or healthy leaf, maintaining a symmetrical outline and avoiding leafless stubs.
Planting Brassicas
To ensure fresh greens later in the season, sow cabbage, kale, or Brussels sprouts in June. These can follow earlier crops like carrots, onions, or spinach for efficient plot use.
Planting Squash, Courgettes, and Sweetcorn
With frost risk largely passed, tender vegetables like pumpkins, squash, courgettes, and sweetcorn should be started in a greenhouse or conservatory before planting outdoors to avoid yellowing from cool nights.
Watering Greenhouse Vegetables
Vegetables such as aubergines, chillies, and peppers must not dry out, but overwatering is also harmful, especially during cool nights. Use a finger to check moisture; avoid watering after 3 pm to prevent cold, wet root balls.
Pruning Plums and Cherries
For fan-trained plum trees, prune now by removing dead or diseased wood. Cut back unnecessary growth to six leaves from the shoot base or bud cluster.
