The Start of Summer...

• Plant out all remaining annuals and tender perennials, but remember to water well until new roots are established

• It's always better to apply lots of water occasionally, rather than little and often

• Tall annuals and herbaceous perennials may need staking, tying, or a plant support to prevent wind or rain damage

• Do the 'Chelsea Chop' on late flowering perennials by cutting stems back by a third to a half

• Keep bare earth surrounding growing plants clear of  weeds by regular hand-weeding or by using a sharp hoe

• Prune early flowering shrubs in RHS Pruning Group 2 such as Philadelphus, Deutzia and Weigela immediately after flowering.  Aim to cut up to 20 percent of stems back to near the base.  

• Tie in new growth on climbing and rambling roses to near horizontal as possible to promote the formation of flowering side-shoots

• Deadhead most annuals and herbaceous perennials as often as you can to prolong flowering

• Plant out sweetcorn in blocks rather than rows to help with wind pollination of the cobs

• Continue to succession sow salad crops of lettuce and radishes, as well as a second sowing of peas and mangetout

• The formation of flowers on First Early potatoes are usually a sign that the first, most delicious new potatoes are waiting to be harvested, but dig up the plants up carefully and replant, as you will be able to get a second harvest from them later in the season

• Tie the leading shoot of 'indeterminate' type tomatoes to a cane or suspended string, and pinch all side shoots

• All tomatoes should be watered regularly to prevent drying out and the splitting of fruit

• Tomatoes and cucumbers should be fed with a high potassium fertiliser weekly.

• Remember that slug pellets containing Metaldehyde have now been banned for use - try to use Garlic wash or other natural methods of control (including encouraging wildlife) to limit damage by slugs and snails.