July brings with it long days and golden light. But while we soak up the warmth, our gardens are bursting into life and calling for a little attention. Think of this as the quiet joy of tending to what’s already thriving – and gently guiding it to flourish further.
Tree Saplings in July
Unboxing and early care
Take your sapling out of the box promptly and place it outdoors to let it breathe and adapt.
Potting to establish roots
Start your tree in a pot around 10L in size. This gives the roots space to settle before you choose a more permanent spot.
Watering routine
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Regular deep watering in July's heat helps roots develop well.
Rose Bushes in Bloom
Where and how to plant
Choose a sunny garden spot and plant straight from the pot into well-prepared soil.
Hydration for health
Water frequently, especially newly planted bushes. Roses need moisture to maintain their blooms.
Lawn Care Tips
Regular mowing
Mow often to keep growth in check, avoiding cuts during extreme heat or dry spells.
Water and feed
Use rainwater where possible and apply fertiliser to encourage lush, green growth.
Weed management
Check for new weeds and remove them before they spread.
Watering in Warm Weather
Time it right
Water early or late in the day to reduce evaporation and help soil retain moisture.
Technique matters
Focus water at the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage to prevent sun damage.
Looking After Potted Plants
Daily check-ins
Monitor soil daily. If the top inch is dry, water deeply ensuring good drainage.
Cooling tips
Dampen the exterior of terracotta pots to help retain compost moisture and reduce root temperature.
Pruning and Shaping
Repeat-flowering roses
Deadhead blooms to prolong flowering through the summer.
Tree pruning
- Lightly prune deciduous magnolias in July.
- Trim holly shrubs early in the month.
- Refine the shape of bay trees by cutting back early summer growth.
Pests and Prevention
Slugs
Use copper tape on pots or natural deterrents to keep them away from tender plants.
Aphids
Check leaves regularly. Remove manually or treat with soapy water. Encourage ladybirds to stay around.
Shielding Young Plants
Sun protection
Offer temporary shade for plants sensitive to strong sunlight. Avoid watering leaves in midday sun.
Hydration support
Ensure the soil stays evenly moist while plants settle in. Young roots dry out quickly in summer heat.
Feeding Advice
What to feed
Only feed woody flowering plants like roses this month. Fruit trees generally do not need extra nutrients now.
When and how
Use half the recommended feed amount and apply during cool parts of the day to avoid scorching.
What's Flourishing in July?
Your garden should be at its peak – full of colour, scent and life. Enjoy what you’ve nurtured.
Welcoming Wildlife
Water for all
Keep birdbaths full and leave shallow dishes of water for other garden visitors.
Natural allies
Protect beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybirds. They help keep pests under control.
Fruit and Veg Garden
Thinning and watering
Thin fruit clusters to help quality. Water fruiting plants daily, especially during hot weather.
Raspberries
These dry out quickly, so deeper and more frequent watering is a must.
Pruning and pinching
- Prune plums, apricots, peaches and cherries to reduce disease risk.
- Pinch back fig shoots after five leaves to boost yields.
Harvest Time
Ready for picking
- Cherries: Mid to late July for early cropping varieties.
- Plums: Start to ripen by late July.
- Bay leaves: Best harvested now for drying.
- Stone fruits: Harvest apricots, nectarines and peaches as they ripen.
Indoor Plant Care
Summer citrus care
Apply citrus-specific feed to help growth and future fruiting.
Regular watering
Check houseplants every few days. Growth is vigorous so they’ll need more moisture now.
Going away?
Set up self-watering pots or enlist a friend to care for your plants while you're away.
With just a little time and care, your garden will return the favour tenfold. July is a month of abundance, a time to tend, nourish and simply notice what is growing around you. Whether you’re caring for a new tree sapling, revelling in your rose blooms or watching fruit ripen under golden skies, this is your reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment.
And if you’ve received a living gift from Tree2mydoor, or are thinking of sending one, don’t forget about our MyTree™ service. It’s more than just a warranty. It’s a companion through the seasons. When you or your loved one registers their gift online, we’ll send monthly emails tailored to the exact tree or plant you have. These include timely care tips, friendly reminders and gentle encouragement. It’s our way of helping you feel supported and confident as your gift grows. Because looking after something rooted in nature should feel joyful, not stressful.
Find out more about MyTree™ – and give your tree the best start in life.
