Mid-Summer Garden Check-In
July is the heart of summer, and while your garden might be bursting with color, it’s also working hard to thrive through the heat. Now’s the perfect time for a mid-season check-in to keep everything looking its best. Here's your simple guide to what you should prune, deadhead, and feed this month.
What to Prune in July
Not everything needs a haircut, but a little summer pruning can refresh tired plants and encourage new growth.
Shrubs that have finished blooming (like lilacs or ninebark): Trim lightly to shape and control size.
Spent stems on perennials (such as salvia, catmint, and hardy geranium): Cut back by one-third to encourage another flush of blooms.
Tomato suckers: Pinch off small shoots between the main stem and branches to direct energy into fruit production.
Wandering or leggy annuals: Give them a quick trim to promote bushier growth.
Tip: Avoid heavy pruning on spring-blooming shrubs (like lilacs) now—they’re already forming buds for next year.
What to Deadhead
Deadheading isn’t just about tidiness—it tells your plants to keep flowering instead of setting seed.
Marigolds: Pinch off spent blooms at the base to encourage nonstop color.
Roses: Snip above the first set of five leaves.
Salvias: Snip off faded flower spikes to promote new spikes.
Geraniums and begonias: Remove spent clusters to redirect energy into fresh buds.
Snapdragons and pansies: Cut back old blooms regularly for continuous spring-to-summer bloom.
Bonus: Deadheaded marigolds also help keep aphids at bay!
What to Feed
With the heat and frequent watering, nutrients can leach from the soil. A mid-season feed keeps your plants strong.
Annual flowers: Use a water-soluble fertilizer every 1–2 weeks to support constant blooms.
Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, and squash benefit from regular feeding—use a balanced or low-nitrogen blend to boost fruit production.
Container gardens: These dry out faster and lose nutrients quickly—regular feeding is essential.
Perennials: A light feeding now can support bloom production into late summer and help root strength for the fall.
Bonus Tip: Watering Wisely
July heat can stress even well-established plants. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage the development of strong root systems. We recommend 10-15 minutes of slow trickle on your hose for shrubs and 15-20 minutes for trees. Early morning is the best time to water!
Taking 30 minutes to prune, deadhead, and feed can make a huge difference in how your garden performs in the second half of summer. If you're unsure where to start, stop by the shop or shoot us an email. We’re happy to help you identify what needs a refresh and recommend the right tools or fertilizers to get the job done.
Your mid-summer garden deserves a little TLC! Happy gardening!
