July

Top Tips:
Start your compost for the next growing season now. I collect and compost on a constant cycle but if you haven't started July is the optimum time to begin. There is kit can can buy mail order or at garden centres to facilitate this process, each has it's own merits but let me address the traditional compost heap as a starting point. The principle of composting is simple, you take biodegradable material, provide conditions where it can break down into reusable compost then return it to the garden. Avoid adding anything unlikely to break down naturally in a reasonable amount of time (wood or robust plants, prunings or shrub cuttings). There have been thousands of words written about exactly what the optimum conditions for composting are but in my experience you will achieve best results in an enclosed space (a compost bin, barrel or a home made compost heap held together with boards or chicken wire). Put the material in layers and ensure each layers is moist, you could also try a chemical activators to give the process a kick start. Once your compost heap has been created it will take three or fourth months for it to break down.

Lawns:
The growth of your lawn will slow in July compared to the previous two months but it will still need to be watered regularly in dry periods and feeding will help keep it in good condition

Flowers and shrubs:
You can lift your tulip bulbs if the foliage has faded, store the bulbs after discarding any rotting or diseased bulbs.

Fruit & Vegetables:
After you have lifted your early potatoes you can still make good use of the ground to plant salad crops. Dig well add your compost and rake.
June and July are the best times to plant your spring crops of cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower.
Late July early August is a good time to prune apple and pear trees. Summer pruning is about allowing more light to the ripening fruit and encouraging new growth.

Greenhouse:
Ensure the temperature ranges doesn't go much outside 16oC to 26oC. Use water and ventilation and shading as much as necessary to ensure optimum growing conditions.