How to maintain a garden in the summer heat

Summer is here! How exciting is it when you open those curtains in the morning and see those rays beaming through the window? But do you know how to keep a garden looking fresh in this high heat?

When we picture a summer garden we see flowers, trees gently blowing in the breeze and rich green grass... so why is the reality brown grass, weeds shooting through and overgrown trees? Here are some tips on how to maintain and nourish your garden so it becomes less like an eyesore and more of a relaxing haven.

• Apologies that this is the first tip but preparation is key! Making sure that before the Sun beams down on us we have the garden well watered and the plants protected. Any bushes or trees need cutting back as these will take a huge growth spurt and can become harder to handle and you may even need to call in a specialised tree surgeon to help out if things get out of hand.
• DO NOT water any plants or grass before the Sun rises or sets as this can burn and kill them. Instead think of using mulch on top of the soil to keep it from drying out and any moisture in.
• Water the garden once in the morning and once in the evening time and give it a good soaking.
• Weeds thrive from the Sun and have soaked up lots of water in the spring time so it is their time to grow, and grow quickly is what they do! If you have weeds within the grass then Feed Weed is great for this (please read any instructions on the packet before using).
• Any paddling pools should be protected underneath so the grass isn't scorched. You can do this by using protective sheeting or being placed on anti-slip decking or astro-turf will stop the grass from being scorched.
• Make sure tarmac driveways are cool enough to park the car on top of as you can ruin the drive and put grooves in them if your tyres or tarmac is hot (the newer the drive, the higher the risk)
• Use a sunshade for plants and shrubs that do not cope well with direct sun light by using a cloth or shelter (this can be home built to save on costs).
• Do not over-mow the garden, as tempting as it can be the long blades of grass help it to survive the summer period.

And most off all keep yourself protected in the sun while enjoying your garden and make sure all pets have somewhere shady to rest and plenty of water. Check the temperature of the ground before letting pets out as they can burn their paws easily. Let wildlife live in your garden and create habitats for them so they can survive the hot weather and in return they will help your garden to thrive.

D&J Projects Ltd

Getting ready for the Spring...

Spring weather is picking up and we are excited! Lots of flowers blooming and the birds chorus in the morning. A picture perfect garden and a coffee on the patio… Oh no! The winter has completely ruined the setting!? Let us give you some quick tips to bring back your garden delight…

1.       Clear those gutters! Not the easiest or nicest of jobs but the April showers will soon be hitting us and those gutters have thrived on damp all winter through. Clear the moss and the debris and you’ll be thanking yourself when the rain pours.

2.       Cut the grass quick! The first cut of the start of every year should be done around March. Ideally you would want this done with a petrol mower because the grass from the bottom will most likely be wet.

3.       Clear those leaves and twigs from the paths and garden. They come from nowhere and make the garden look untidy.

4.       How are your tools looking? Service them, a lot of accidents can happen from tools that are not in a fit state to be used, always put your safety first and hire tools if needed to do the right job.

5.       Look after your children and pets. The first things we all want to do are plant plants and grow vegetables, and with this we try to protect them. You can buy child and animal friendly weed killer. Make sure that your insect repellent is kept away from them at all times.

6.       Clean the tables and chairs. We always have a surprise visit from the sun and we itch to get our garden parties started. Make sure you can spend the day prepping the BBQ food and you’ll not need to worry about cleaning the furniture.

7.       Pressure wash your green garden. Moss grows everywhere and on everything. Pressure wash your decking, fence panels and concrete to bring back to life your surroundings. 

No Maintenance Gardens!?

Yes they are real! Low maintenance gardens are a dream but NO maintenance gardens are paradise. While all of us like to have green fingers from time to time, the busy schedules that most of us keep prevent us from being able to save our garden from becoming overgrown or from killer weeds, naughty insects or dehydration! 

So how do we create a gorgeous scene throughout all times of the year? Our premium forest like artificial grass, strong membrane and pebble stone, decking and clean feather board fencing with concrete gravel boards and posts. It is simple yet healthy looking. And if you enjoy a little green finger time then a planter with your favourite flowers in is much easier to manage and able to keep pest free.

D&J Projects Landscaping

Now I know what you’re thinking… Yes, all this daydreaming is great… BUT how much!? Well think about the lawnmower savings, the free from sore knees and back, the ends to cutting hedges back and all those supplements needed to keep healthy grass and even then it goes brown. Take all that away for many, many years and there you have the cost of your garden.

D&J Projects Ltd have made this a reality for many people and intend on doing so for those who can no longer enjoy a garden due to illness, work commitments, being away from home a lot etc. We work with what you want. We are bursting with ideas but want it to be your project so are happy to offer advice only when you require. Get in touch today and start building your tranquil area with us.