Plant these three items in the garden this month for a thriving vegetable and flower garden:
July is a month brimming with opportunities for gardeners, as it's the perfect time for sowing and planting a variety of flowers and produce. Head gardener Benjamin Pope and gardener cook Aaron Bertelsen, who are responsible for maintaining gardens year-round, offer some insightful recommendations.
In the floral department, Salvias are a popular choice due to their high impact and versatility. These plants come in a wide range of forms and colours, making them a favourite among garden designers. Some notable varieties include Salvia pratensis ‘Rose Rhapsody’, Salvia forskaehlei ‘Dale Farm Rose’, Salvia ‘Endless Love’, and Salvia nemorosa Caradonna Pink Inspiration (= ‘Tucarink’) [2].
For those seeking a burst of colour and nourishment through winter, chard 'Bright Lights' can be sown in July. Wallflowers, maturing better when transplanted to containers in late winter, can also be sown in July for early spring interest. Cultivars such as 'Scarlet Bedder', 'Sugar Rush Purple Bicolour', 'Sunset Orange', 'Sunset Apricot', and 'Sunset Primrose' are suggested for bright and bold wallflower combinations [1].
In terms of produce, French or runner beans, salad leaves, radish, turnips, and carrots can be sown in July for the plate. Turnips, having a resurgence in popularity, are delicious when young and tender. They should be sown thinly and watered regularly. A four-year gap between turnip plantings is ideal, if possible. Turnips can also do well in a good-sized pot, but require diligent watering [1].
As for gardening jobs, weeding and mulching, pruning, watering, monitoring pests, and fertilizing are general tasks for July. Keep the garden free of weeds and apply mulch to retain moisture. Prune back spent flowers and trim shrubs to maintain shape. Ensure plants receive adequate water, especially during hot spells. Watch out for pests like aphids and slugs that can damage plants. Apply fertilizers to promote healthy growth [1].
Visiting gardens during July can be a great way to enjoy the peak of summer blooms. Local nurseries like Dyson’s Salvias and Westons Salvias in the UK are known for their impressive collections of salvias and might offer inspiring visits for garden enthusiasts [2]. For specific advice, consulting gardening guides or local gardening experts would be beneficial [1].
Onion 'Rossa lunga di Firenze' can be sown in July for early spring onion cropping or to stand through winter for use in dishes. Turnips, it seems, are popular with flea beetles, so keep an eye out for these pesky critters [1].
July is a month filled with gardening possibilities, and with the right care and attention, your garden can bloom beautifully. Happy gardening!
[1] - Gardening Tips from Benjamin Pope and Aaron Bertelsen [2] - Gardening Month by Month by Joy Larkcom
- In addition to sowing and planting a variety of flowers and produce in July, consider adding Salvias to your garden for their high impact and versatility.
- For a burst of color and nourishment through winter, chard 'Bright Lights' can be sown, while wallflowers like 'Scarlet Bedder' and 'Sunset Orange' can be sown for early spring interest.
- To ensure your garden blooms beautifully in July, attend local nurseries like Dyson’s Salvias and Westons Salvias for inspiring collections of salvias, and consult gardening guides or local gardening experts for specific advice.
