Jobs in the Garden: August 2025

Essential Gardening Jobs for August in the UK

August is the height of summer, bringing warm temperatures, long days, and an abundance of flowers and crops in the garden. However, the heat and dry weather can also put stress on plants, making regular maintenance essential. Here are the key gardening tasks for August:

1. Watering and Irrigation

• Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.

• Prioritise watering for containers, hanging baskets, and newly planted flowers and vegetables.

• Use mulch to retain moisture and keep plant roots cool.

• Collect rainwater in water butts to conserve water.

2. Lawn Care

• Mow the lawn regularly but keep the blades high to prevent drought stress.

• Water the lawn if necessary, especially during prolonged dry spells.

• Leave some areas of grass longer to support wildlife and pollinators.

3. Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadhead flowers like roses, dahlias, and petunias to encourage continuous blooming.

• Trim summer-flowering shrubs after they finish flowering.

• Cut back lavender after blooming to maintain its shape and promote new growth.

4. Planting and Sowing

• Sow late crops such as lettuce, spinach, and radishes for autumn harvesting.

• Start planting autumn-flowering bulbs like crocuses and colchicums.

• Take cuttings of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage to grow new plants.

5. Harvesting and Feeding

• Harvest fruit and vegetables regularly, including tomatoes, beans, courgettes, and berries.

• Continue feeding tomato plants with a high-potash fertiliser.

• Feed hanging baskets and container plants to prolong their flowering period.

6. Supporting Wildlife

• Provide fresh water for birds, bees, and other pollinators during hot weather.

• Avoid using pesticides to help protect beneficial insects.

• Leave seed heads on some plants like sunflowers to provide food for birds.

7. General Maintenance

• Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids and slugs, taking action if needed.

• Tie in climbing plants such as sweet peas and clematis as they grow.

• Check fences, trellises, and supports, making any necessary repairs before autumn.

August is a rewarding month in the garden, with plenty to harvest and enjoy. By keeping up with these key tasks, you’ll ensure a beautiful and productive garden as the summer starts to wind down. Happy gardening!