Chores in June Bring Rewards in July

Make sure all your plants are well-watered, especially if your area has experienced a dry spell. Deep but regular soaking is more effective than light but more frequent watering. If you are unable to water due to local water restrictions, take heart. Most summer-flowering bulbs are drought hardy. With their built-in food and moisture storage capacity, healthy bulbs may not thrive, but they will surely survive all but the most severe drought conditions.

Expect vigorous growth from your dahlias, gladioli, begonias and lilies in June. To really give them a lift, apply fertilizer. This will promote sturdy stems, strong foliage and full, healthy blooms come July. An ordinary granular slow-release type fertilizer will do just fine.

Take care of staking summer blooming plants now while they are still young. Tall growing dahlias require a strong stake placed right beside the plant. Cut the tips of dahlias when plants reach six or seven inches in height. This allows the plant to concentrate its energy on blooms and bushy growth. Pinch off the ancillary buds on the sides of the stems. This again concentrates the plant's energy and will increase the size of the remaining blossom as well as the strength and length of the stem.

The onset of warmer weather and more direct sunlight is also a signal to add mulch. Just as mulch helps protect bulbs and roots from cold and frost, it can shelter them from the hot sun. Lilies in particular love mulch: they want the full sun on their leaves and flowers, but prefer their roots in the shade. Mulching also helps the soil retain moisture and keep weeds under control. It also makes the bed look neater. A neat garden allows the eye to happily enjoy what June has to offer, while awaiting the coming glory of July.