If you're headed out of town this summer, think about plant care a little in advance and rest easy while you're gone. And even if a trip is not in your future, July is a good time to:
Fertilize your fruit trees and shrubs, using a balanced compost or or organic fertilizer specifically formulated for fruiting plants. Apply it around the root zone, not right up against the trunk. This will support healthy fruit sizes this year, and fruit setting for next season.
Mulch! If you haven't already, add 2 - 4 inches of finely or mid-sized shredded mulch (non-dyed, not cedar) around your garden. It will dramatically increase moisture retention, keep soils cool and soil ecosystems happy, and reduce weeds.
Install an irrigation system set on a timer. Inconsistent or insufficient watering can lead to plants with weak root systems, making them more susceptible to diseases and less productive overall.
If you don't have an irrigation system, enlist the help of a friend or neighbor. This year, my neighbors will be watering my gardens and hopefully eating my early cherry tomatoes while doing so.
Water deeply just before you leave town. Inspect several inches down into the soil to ensure that you've watered deeply enough to reach the root zone. If it rains, water well in succession to really penetrate the soil with moisture. Already damp soils do a better job of absorbing additional water than dry soils.
Move potted plants into the shade, and water them deeply before leaving.
Deadhead your flowering plants to extend the flowering season. Clip off spent flowers and leaves, allowing the plant to expend energy into new growth.
Safe travels if you're off somewhere, and if you're staying put, enjoy this gorgeous summertime!
Royal Green Designs focuses on native, pollinator-attracting, edible and perennial plantings. Our gardening approach will set you on the path to growing a useful and gorgeous personal landscape. Serving Seattle and Washington, D.C.
If you've been dreaming of a year round tranquil garden that supports the local ecosystem and maybe even provides herbs and food, reach out for a one to one consultation, or to begin a collaborative garden design. Now is the time to plan for fall planting!