July in the Garden

July arrives in full bloom, borders are bursting, bees are humming, and the garden beams with quiet abundance. It’s a month where the hard work of spring comes into its own, and the garden gives generously. But while everything may look at its peak, July asks for a bit of gentle guidance to keep things thriving through the summer.

What to Do in the Garden in July

• Deadhead regularly – especially roses, cosmos and sweet peas to keep blooms coming.

• Cut back perennials like hardy geraniums to encourage fresh foliage and sometimes a second flush.

• Water mindfully, especially containers, newly planted borders, and greenhouse crops. Early morning or late evening is best.

• Mulch if needed to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in high-sun areas.

• Weed little and often a meditative job, if taken slowly, with a cup of tea nearby.

• Tie in tall or floppy plants like tomatoes and dahlias, I've also done my cosmos.

• Plan ahead – now’s a lovely time to observe and note what’s working in your garden... and what you might want to change or add come autumn.

  
  

What Can Be Harvested

• Fruits: Raspberries, blackcurrants, gooseberries, strawberries and cherries (if the birds haven't eaten them all)

• Herbs: harvest rosemary, thyme, mint and basil regularly

• Vegetables:

  • Early potatoes

  • Courgettes (check daily!)

  • Broad beans and runner beans

  • Lettuce, spinach, rocket

  • Beetroot, carrots, and spring onions

There’s a certain rhythm to July everything is in motion. Watching bees tumble through lavender, the way the light catches the grasses in the evening, or how the scent of the sweet peas carries across the garden at dusk.

It’s easy to forget that this is what we dreamed of back in February, pouring over seed catalogues with muddy mugs of tea. July is the reward not just for the plants, but for us too. A time to pause, to harvest, to share cut flowers with neighbours or herbs with friends. A time to sit, barefoot in the grass, and let the garden just be.

Final Thoughts

July is not about perfection it’s about presence. Let the weeds wait a day. Cut yourself flowers. Wander with secateurs in hand and no real plan. This is the month where the garden feeds not just the body, but the soul too.

All my love, love from Donna 🌷