- Plant summer colour. Annuals that grow quickly and easily from seed are alyssum, cosmos, lavatera, portulaca, California poppy, and nasturtium. They all do best in full sun.
- Trim back invasive groundcovers to give other plants room to grow.
- Renew containers. Replace the potting soil and fill with summer annuals, trailing groundcovers or grasses.
- Fertilise perennials with Vigorosa or granular fertilizer 3:1:5 or 5:1:5, and annuals with a liquid fertiliser. Use either pink or blue hydrangea food for hydrangeas.
- Water regularly and spread a layer of mulch over beds to conserve water and keep the roots cool.
- Mow lawns at least once a week, but if it is very hot and dry mow less frequently and set blades higher.
This month we are planting regal pelargonium ‘Novita
It looks good anywhere; in large containers, in coastal gardens, and in the garden in full sun or semi-shade. It doesn’t get leggy like older varieties used to do and it is a great bloomer. The colour range is purple, violet, dark red with a purple eye and a pink bicolour.
The medium-sized flowers cover the bush. Plant in well-drained fertile soil and protect from the frost in colder areas. Garden plants need regular watering but allow the soil to dry out
before watering again. Plants in containers need watering more often. Fertilise monthly with Vigorosa fertiliser.
For further information: www.ballstraathof.co.za
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