We are now at the height of summer and water may be lacking. Lack of water will reduce the speed at which the grass grows. It still needs the occasional cut, but we often leave our grass a little longer in summer as cutting it too short can stress the grass – a major cause of lawns turning brown. As a general rule don’t remove more than a third of the height when mowing and your lawn will remain greener for longer. If you have done any grass seed downing or turf laying in the spring, ensure that you keep it watered; it is still a bit delicate.

We have a lot of hedging in the Gardens and by August it is ready for its second cut of the season. The timing of box hedge cutting has to be carefully managed. If it’s too sunny the newly cut leaves burn in the sun. A dry overcast day is ideal for us gardeners to perform our cutting but we find it is the clearing up of the cuttings that takes the time! If you want to get a perfectly level hedging erect a string line with a couple of bamboo canes at either end, you can then cut to the level of the line and ensure all dips wonky edges are removed. Cutting for prolonged periods often leads to dips in concentration so following a line makes it so much easier.

August is the month for harvesting those crops that needed a bit of warmth and care earlier in the season. Cucumbers, aubergines and tomatoes are now ready to be picked and eaten. Main crop potatoes are now lifted and can be stored, keep them cool and dry but don’t put them in the fridge as you could end up with sweet gritty potatoes as the starch contained within them turns to sugar.

Lastly, with long, hazy days of summer it’s important to remember to sit back and relax occasionally and enjoy the fruits of your labour!