FROM dining al fresco to hosting summer get-togethers, spending time in the garden is one of summer’s little luxuries. But with wetter weather than usual this summer, UK gardens have become plagued by weeds and other pesky plants. However, gardening fans don’t have to panic and there are some little-known hacks to help keep your garden on top form.
From white vinegar to fast-acting weed killers, there is a trick for everything. Helping Brits tackle the problem, Wickes Senior Category Manager for Gardens, Clair Albone, shares her top tips to rid outdoor spaces of these unwanted plants. Clair says: “If time is of the essence, gardeners may opt for a fast-acting chemical-based spray that will remove unwanted plants in no time.
” READ MORE ON GARDENING Shoppers aren’t just focusing on chemical solutions, as Clair points to a growing desire among gardeners to use natural methods. She explains: “For those looking to avoid using harsh chemicals, a simple household ingredient can also be effective in cleaning up patio tiles. “White vinegar can be diluted in a mixture of 1:1 with water and applied directly to tiles to start scrubbing as well as pouring boiling hot water from the kettle onto the weeds to kill them.
” Gently clean tiles using a soft bristle brush like the Bulldozer Deck Scrub & Scrape , which costs £13 from Wickes. Most read in Fabulous It is specifically designed for cleaning patios, decking and pathways. The PVC bristles form a layered 'turret effect' that aids in removing dirt and grime from uneven surfaces.
Clair says this can go even further, as gardeners can also use Bicarbonate of Soda to remove discolouration Uneven surface She recommends: “a mixture of 1-5 tablespoons, diluted in 10 litres of water and left to soak into tiles for 20 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing clean.” For those who prefer to avoid chemicals, Clair says: "Gardening enthusiasts can return to basics with a Soft Grip Garden Hand Weeder, which costs £4.50 from Wickes or £6.
57 from Amazon. " This tool, crafted from carbon steel for extra strength and durability, features an ergonomic handle to reduce discomfort and provide a secure grip, making weed removal easier. Clair also recommends: “A non-glyphosate herbicide that kills weeds on contact, the Resolva Ready to Use Xpress Weed Killer - 3L, which costs £15 from Wickes, requires a simple, quick spray to see visible results and can be used all year round.
" The Sun's Gardening Editor, Veronica Lorraine, has shared the 10 gardening jobs to take on during the last month of summer - and the all important ones to remember if you're going on holiday. 1. Watering plants on holiday Think about how you're going to water your plants if you're going away.
Irrigation systems are stupidly expensive - so ask a friend or neighbour to pop over. 2. Remember your houseplants! For houseplants use the upside down bottle trick - where you fill a wine bottle and then tip it upside down, spout down, and stick it into the pot - the water should seep out slowly.
For smaller plants you can use a thick piece of cord running from a glass of water, into the soil - so it slowly takes it up over time. Be sensible with your watering - vistit www.mains2rains.
co.uk for some tips on how to conserve water in August. But use as much grey water - ie washing up water - as you can to save such a valuable resource.
3. Dig for potatoes Second early potatoes should be ready to dig up. 4.
Carry on deadheading Use either secateurs or just pinch off the blooms with your finger and thumb. With roses, make sure you're dead heading back to a set of five leaves, giving you the best chance of more blooms. 5.
Plant strawberries You can actually plant strawberries in late august - which will be ready next year. For the ones you already have - if they've got runners springing off them - try and pot them up to make more strawberries for free. 6.
Prune lavenders In late August once they've finished flowering cut back your lavender - always prune them back to the woody stems - but make sure you can still see some little buds. 7. Collect seeds A lot of plants will start going to seed now - so it's the perfect time to walk around collecting them to get free plants for next year - just make sure you label the envelopes.
8. Sow hardy annuals Towards the end of the month, sow hardy annuals in order for them to flower next year. Try and choose sheltered spots for them.
9. Cut back roses Prune back rambling roses and make sure they are all tied in. And in late August give your roses their last feed.
10. Keep on top of watering hanging baskets It's really important to keep hanging baskets hydrated - they are the first and the worst for drying out..
