LANDSCAPING : The late summer light dances on ornamental grasses now reaching their full glory! Trim back faded perennials like geraniums and delphiniums to 10cm above ground, removing yellowing foliage to prevent disease spread and encourage fresh growth. / Shape informal hedges of lavender, rosemary and box with sharp secateurs, taking off just the soft tips to maintain a natural form while stimulating bushier growth. / Water newly planted shrubs deeply at soil level with 5-10 liters per plant, creating a small soil basin around each to direct moisture to developing roots.
VEGETABLE PATCH : Leafy greens call for attention now! Sow spinach, Swiss chard and winter lettuce varieties in shallow drills 1cm deep and 25cm apart – these late summer sowings will provide fresh leaves well into autumn. / Thin out existing rows of mustard greens, kale and Asian greens to 20cm spacing, using the thinnings in tonight’s salad for a peppery kick. / Feed leafy brassicas with a nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, applying directly to soil around plants to boost foliage production. / For clay soils, work in a handful of sharp sand per square meter before sowing to improve drainage for tender salad leaves.
INDOORS : Those indoor leafy friends deserve some mid-August care! Wipe dust from large-leaved houseplants like monstera, rubber plants and peace lilies using a damp microfiber cloth – clean leaves photosynthesize more efficiently and resist pests better. / Pinch out growing tips of trailing plants such as pothos and Swedish ivy to encourage bushier growth and prevent leggy stems. / Refresh potting soil in container herbs like basil, parsley and cilantro by carefully removing the top 2cm and replacing with fresh compost mixed with a sprinkle of worm castings.