JOBS AHEAD
If we experience another extended dry spell like we did in May, raise your lawn mower blades to reduce stress on the grass.
Harden off any remaining half-hardy bedding plants ready for planting out now that the general risk of frost has passed.
Water level in ponds will fall in hotter weather so top up once a week with rainwater from a butt.
Towards the end of July is a good time to trim hedges as birds will have stopped using them for nesting.
Remember to stake taller plants, such as dahlias and lupins, as they will be growing quickly during this time.
Hoe borders regularly to keep down weeds.
Deadhead and feed flowering plants like petunias, morning glory, and fuchsias with a high potash feed once a week to keep flowers coming.
Tie up the stems of sweetpeas to supports as they start to put on strong growth.
Prevent the spent flower heads of lupins, delphiniums and other early flowering perennials turning to seed by cutting them back to a set of leaves to encourage a second flush of flowers in late summer.
Cut down tatty foliage from early flowering perennials like Alchemilla mollis and hardy geraniums that will respond with a flush of fresh leaves.
Pinch out the tops of runner beans when they reach the top of their supports to encourage side-shoots to grow.
Remember to earth up potatoes for a second time to keep the light away from the tubers.
Continue planting spinach and salad crops in succession to ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves.
Cover the exposed roots of sweetcorn by mounding up the soil to improve anchorage.
Spread a thick layer of mulch around moisture-loving crops such as broad beans and courgettes, as they will need even more hydration over summer.
Strawberries should be ready to pick later this month so make sure there is straw under the plants to keep the fruit off the soil. Peg down runners if you want to make new plants to fruit next year.
Although fruit trees will naturally shed some fruit, referred to as the 'June drop', aim to thin out any congested branches further for bigger and better fruits.
If some fruit crops are still ripening, cover them with a layer of fleece to prevent damage from birds and insects.
Apply shade paint or install blinds to prevent your greenhouse from overheating. Remember to open vents and doors on warm days.
Remember that greenhouse plants will dry out more quickly as temperatures rise, and most will require daily watering.
Watch out for common pests such as vine weevil and whitefly, which can be controlled by spraying the underside of leaves with a soap-based spray.
Trim herbs like parsley, sage, sorrel, and marjoram regularly to ensure a constant supply of tasty leaves.