June Care Guide: Nurturing Your Gift Through the Summer
The days are stretching longer, and golden light spills into the evening. June is here – and with it, the perfect opportunity to be outside, reconnect with nature, and tend to the garden.
If you’ve just received a tree or plant gift from us, or are thinking of sending one, this guide is designed to support you through the early days. No green fingers required, just a little care, and our trusted advice.
Looking After Specific Tree and Plant Gifts
Native Tree Saplings in June
Looking lovely and leafy. Our native tree saplings are thriving at this time of year. If one’s just arrived at your door, here’s how to get started:
- Unbox immediately. Gently remove from packaging and place outside in fresh air and light.
- Choose a home. Decide between planting in a pot or directly in the garden.
- Planting in a container. Use a 10L pot with multipurpose compost. Create a hole for the rootball, plant it, firm the soil and water well.
- Planting in the ground. Consider the tree’s eventual size. For example, oak needs lots of space. Dig, plant and firm down.
- Water thoroughly. Keep soil moist but not soggy. Check every few days.
Explore our Native Tree Gifts collection – ideal for meaningful summer occasions.
Rose Bushes in June
- Unwrap and move outdoors. Roses thrive outside – not indoors.
- Re-pot or plant out. Plant in a larger pot or into the ground for best results.
- Keep hydrated. Roses are thirsty in summer. Keep soil moist, not wet.
Find inspiration in our Rose Bush Gifts collection, perfect for weddings, anniversaries and birthdays.
The Strawberry Moon and Gardening by the Moon
June’s full moon, known as the Strawberry Moon, traditionally marks the ripening of fruits and the abundance of early summer. For centuries, gardeners and farmers have aligned their growing practices with the phases of the moon, believing that nature’s rhythms influence how plants grow and thrive.
According to this age-old wisdom, the waxing moon (when it’s growing in brightness) is the best time to sow, plant and transplant above-ground crops. The waning moon (after the full moon) is ideal for pruning, weeding and planting root crops. Whether or not you follow this lunar method closely, the Strawberry Moon is a beautiful reminder to slow down, notice the cycles of nature and connect with the world around us in a more intentional way.
Why not use this month’s full moon as your own gentle signal to tend to the garden, plant a tree, or even just sit outside and enjoy the light it casts?
Essential Garden Care in June
Lawn and Soil Care
- Mow regularly. Weekly mowing keeps lawns healthy during rapid summer growth.
- Weed consistently. Prevents competition for water and nutrients.
- Hoe borders and beds. Aerates soil and reduces weed growth.
Watering Trees and Plants
- Collect rainwater. Install a water butt for more sustainable watering.
- Check moisture levels. Especially for potted or young plants.
- Water deeply, not daily. Encourage strong root systems.
Feeding in June
- Use slow-release fertiliser. If needed, apply at half strength. Avoid overfeeding in high heat.
Pruning, Thinning and Planting Tips
Pruning in June
- Prune stone fruit trees. Warm, dry weather prevents silver leaf fungus.
- Deadhead roses. Encourage more blooms by removing faded flowers from repeat-flowering varieties.
Thinning Fruit Trees
- Thin congested branches. Improves fruit size and quality on apples, plums and peaches.
What to Plant in June
- Container-grown trees and plants. Ideal for planting now because the roots settle quickly in warm soil.
Plant Health and Problem Prevention
Caring for Potted Plants
- Water deeply. Check daily. Ensure excess drains freely. Never leave pots standing in water.
Pests and Diseases
- Inspect plants often. Especially leaves and stems.
- Watch for powdery mildew. Use potassium bicarbonate spray to treat safely.
Sun Protection for Plants
- Prevent sunburn. Shade new plants and avoid watering leaves under intense sun.
Seasonal Highlights in June
What’s Looking Good?
June Tree of the Month: Our Blueberry Plant Gift. Ripening berries and low maintenance make it the perfect summer surprise – especially for Father’s Day.
What to Harvest
- Evergreen herbs. Cut lavender and rosemary to dry for cooking or natural fragrance.
Wildlife and Indoor Gardening
Attracting Wildlife
- Plant for pollinators. Choose bee- and butterfly-friendly species.
- Top up birdbaths. Provide clean water daily for garden visitors.
Indoor Gardening Tips
- Move citrus outdoors. Let your trees soak up some summer sun. Bring them in overnight if weather forecasts are very cold or stormy.
- Position houseplants wisely. Bright but indirect sunlight works best. Protect delicate leaves from scorch.
