7 essential garden jobs to do in August to keep yours thriving and flourishing – including exact time to water plants

GARDENERS should complete a bunch of essential outdoor tasks this August to help their plants survive the hot weather. Despite over 20million Brits currently facing hosepipe ban restrictions, there are still ways to keep the garden healthy this summer. As the summer draws to a close, August is a good chance to complete some essential gardening tasks Credit: Getty Giving your grass some space It is important not to fertilise grass in August as it can attract pests Credit: Getty There are a few essential tips for keeping grass healthy this August, primarily being to not fertilise it as this can attract autumn pests. Brown grass is normal during hot weather, but raising mower blades to leave it longer can help it withstand the heat. Sign up for the Fabulous newsletter Thank you! Look after ladybirds Ladybirds can look after a number of pests in your garden Credit: Alamy Ladybirds are your best friend in the garden, easily getting rid of fruit flies, mites and scale insects. By leaving some aphids on your less valuable plants, ladybirds can quickly get rid of pests and settle in your garden. Add pollinators August is a good time to let essential pollinators relax and recharge your plants Credit: Getty Bees and butterflies are essential pollinators in your garden, so adding nectar-rich plants can help attract these insects. Adding a pitstop for pollinators in your garden, such as a shallow bowl of water, can have a big impact on your plants. After these critters have rested and recharged, they can rehydrate your plants and keep returning time and time again. Feed the birds Keeping birds healthy and hygienic can stop the spread of certain diseases Credit: Alamy Summertime can bring about a number of diseases that birds are susceptible to, so making sure the ones in your garden are hygienic is important. Most read in Fabulous Keep feeders clean and topped up regularly, and make sure bird baths are replenished for birds to hydrate and clean themselves throughout the month. Watering plants wisely Fruits, vegetables, hanging baskets, and newer plants should be regularly watered Credit: Getty As many Brits endure hosepipe bans, using water wisely is essential for keeping your garden hydrated. The best times to water plants are in the early morning or evening, with milder temperatures reducing evaporation, letting plants absorb more water. It is equally important to make sure fruits, vegetables, hanging baskets, and newer plants are regularly watered. Deadheading flowers Deadheading plants can keep flower displays looking nicer for longer Credit: Getty Deadheading flowers is the process of removing old, or fading blooms – which can either be done by hand, or with scissors. This simple process will help make way for newer flowers, and keep your displays looking nicer for longer. Harvesting fruits and vegetables Picking fruits and vegetables in August can stop them from becoming overripe or mouldy Credit: Getty Many summer fruits and vegetables will be ready to eat by August, such as tomatoes, artichokes, cucumbers, potatoes and plums. August is the perfect time for harvest, so picking them now will stop fruits and vegetables becoming overripe or mouldy. Comment now