What to focus on in your garden in June

With summer just around the corner and the longest days of the year upon us, June is a fantastic time to enjoy your garden. In Tayside, the weather is (hopefully) warming up, and everything is bursting into life. Whether you’re growing veggies, keeping your borders in check, or simply trying to create a space to relax, now’s the time to get your outdoor space looking its best.

Here’s what to focus on in your garden this month to keep it thriving through summer.

1. Plant out summer veg & bedding plants

By June, the risk of frost has usually passed, so it’s safe to plant out tender crops like:

• Courgettes, runner beans, and squash
• Tomatoes (best in greenhouses or sheltered spots)
• Summer bedding plants like geraniums, marigolds, and begonias

If the weather suddenly turns, keep some fleece handy just in case!

2. Water smartly

With longer days and more sun, your plants will be thirstier. Water in the early morning or evening and focus on the roots rather than the leaves. Pots, baskets, and newly planted items need particular attention.

Tip: Group containers together to help them retain moisture and make watering easier.

3. Keep weeds in check

Weeds can go wild in June, so regular weeding is key. Hoeing on dry days or hand-pulling weeds before they set seed will help keep your beds under control. Adding mulch not only suppresses weeds but also helps retain moisture during hot spells.

4. Deadhead & feed

Keep your flowers blooming by regularly deadheading spent blooms. This encourages more flowers and keeps everything looking fresh. June is also a great time to feed:

• Roses (with a specialist rose feed)
• Hanging baskets and container plants
• Tomatoes and fruiting crops (use tomato feed once flowers appear)

5. Tidy up your grass

Mow regularly, but don’t cut it too short in dry spells – longer grass retains moisture better. You can also trim lawn edges for a neater look and repair bare patches if needed. If you’re aiming for a lush summer lawn, apply a high-nitrogen lawn feed now.

6. Enjoy your space

After all the work, take time to enjoy what you’ve created. Clean off garden furniture, add some outdoor cushions or solar lighting, and consider popping some herbs in pots for handy pickings during BBQ season.

Final thoughts

June is all about maintenance, growth, and enjoyment. The hard work you put in now will reward you with colour, flavour, and the perfect space to relax all summer long. Whether you’re prepping for garden viewings or just enjoying your own patch of paradise, these simple tasks will help keep your garden looking its best.