- Think accessories and detailing… pots and planters can transform patios, entrances, doorways and paths – there is so much choice, colourful ceramics, contemporary metals, classic stone or rustic terracotta - Your choice of container is almost as important as the plant!
- If you're really time poor, check out the 'done for you' options on offer at your local garden centre - ready planted containers with a central focus of an architectural fern, a stunning Marguerite daisy or a cool flowering grass. You can also plant up your own, of course. Fragrant lavenders look just right in the heat and smell fabulous too!
- On herbaceous plants like Dicentra, cutting back the foliage and stems that have already died back will give them a new lease of life.
- Hanging baskets are a must have! But don't neglect them – if you keep them watered, fed and regularly deadhead they will stay looking fresh until Autumn.
- Prune climbing and rambling roses that do not repeat flower or produce attractive hips, once the flowers have finished.
If you've got a garden party or a BBQ coming up or simply want to boost your own enjoyment of the garden, the mid-season pick-me-up of lipstick gardening is the thing for you.