As the vibrant colours of spring flowering plants transition into the lush greens of summer, June is the time of abundance and growth in our Canadian gardens. With longer days and warmer temperatures, this month offers the perfect conditions for nurturing your plants and witnessing the beauty of nature unfolding every day. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here are some tips and activities to help you make the most of your garden at this time of the year. It's the time to enjoy, but also the time to keep it all sustained and with a little help it will give you pleasure all season long.

1. After planting your bare-root plants from Botanus keep up the watering and caring: Young and delicate bare-root plants will thrive and grow into beautiful plants if they get some attention until they are more established. It is important to make sure they don't dry up. Keep them nice and moist but don't over-water them. Watch their needs and give them water when they need it and don't water them if they don't need it. Add some slow-release fertilizer to give them an extra boost to grow into big, healthy plants
2. Remember the Lawn: I’ve never talked about lawns before but I think it’s important to treat it right so you can save water and keep it nice. Lawns are for so much more than just looks. They benefit the environment and help our little bugs and garden-helpers to survive plus by cleaning the air and trapping carbon dioxide.A very important job of lawns and natural spaces is the reduction of erosion from storm-water runoffs unlike hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. I definitely notice in my back yard that it is not as hot and noisy because of the lawn space I have. So consider your grass not only for the nice look it provides but also for helping the environment. Artificial turf will not give you any of these benefits and we need to support our environment! Keep your lawn looking lush and healthy by mowing it regularly and at the appropriate height for your grass type. During dry weather, make sure to water deeply to encourage strong root growth. Consider aerating your lawn if it becomes compacted, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more effectively. And when it gets hot, be mindful of the water restrictions in your community or just let the grass go brown. As soon as the rainy season starts again, your lawn will come back and recover beautifully.
3. Tend to Your Vegetable Garden: A little help goes a long way. If you haven't already, June is the perfect time to plant warm-season vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and squash. Watch for pests and diseases, and address any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading. The earlier you see it the less harm they will do. Mulch around your plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Not only will you keep your plants cooler, you also save on water.
4. Prune and Deadhead: Regular pruning and deadheading will help you to maintain a healthy and good looking garden. Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prune back overgrown branches to promote new growth. Use clean, sharp tools and sanitize them between cuts to prevent the spread of disease.
5. Protect Against Pests and Diseases: June is prime time for pests and diseases to make their presence known in the garden. Keep an eye out for signs of trouble, such as chewed leaves, wilting plants, or unusual discoloration. Consider using natural deterrents like insecticidal soap to control pests, and practice good sanitation by removing any infected plant material promptly. If you detect pests early your chances of getting rid of them with non-invasive sprays are much better. Stay on top of it and you will have it under control in no time.
6. Harvest and Enjoy: One of the greatest joys of gardening in June is the opportunity to start harvesting your own fresh produce and flowers. Whether you're picking ripe berries from the bush, snipping fragrant herbs for your meals, or gathering a bouquet of vibrant blooms for your table, take a moment to savour the fruits of your labour and share them with family and friends. This is what it's all about. Enjoy this time!
7. Stay Water-Wise: As temperatures rise and rainfall becomes less frequent, it's important to be mindful of water usage in the garden. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation, and use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots where it's needed most. Consider collecting rainwater in barrels to supplement your watering needs and reduce your environmental impact. It is incredible how much water you can save with a rain barrel.
8. Create Habitat for Wildlife: Some of my favourite things in my garden are the birds, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. It makes me feel good to see them coming into my space. They show me that my garden is alive!! To encourage these beneficial birds and insects into your garden, provide them with food, water, and shelter. Plant native species that attract pollinators and offer a variety of blooming times to support them throughout the season. Consider adding bird feeders, bird baths, and insect hotels to create a welcoming environment for wildlife to thrive.

June is a month of activities and enjoyment in your garden. Whether you’re cultivating a lush flower garden, tending to a big or small vegetable patch, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of nature, let this month inspire you to connect with the earth and nurture its gifts. We are all part of this planet and together we will thrive.