VEGETABLE PATCH : The soil is still cool from the night — a good moment to add compost around artichokes and work it in lightly with a hand fork, keeping the base clear of the crown. Strawberry runners that have rooted can be lifted and potted up, ready for planting out in August at 30 cm apart, crown flush with the soil surface.
LANDSCAPING : Before the change this morning, root day energy suits adding compost to established beds and firming in any recently divided perennials. After the change, the afternoon opens a generous flower day window. Dahlia tubers planted out at 60 cm apart each way in a sunny bed will reward you with a long summer display — water in well after planting. Cosmos and zinnia transplants do best now: set cosmos at 30 cm in the row, rows 40 cm, and zinnia at 25 cm in the row, rows 30 cm; pinch the growing tip of each plant to encourage branching. Lavender planted in free-draining soil and full sun will establish quickly in the summer warmth — firm the roots in well and water once. Hollyhock seedlings started under cover can go out at 40 cm in the row, rows 50 cm; stake them loosely if your site is exposed. In Mediterranean gardens, oleander and fig tree pots benefit from a generous watering and a top-dressing of compost around the base.