Autumn Revival

How to revive your garden after the long hot summer.

If you think you suffer from the heat as far as summer goes, think how that sun-baked garden fares without even so much as a dash of sun lotion.

Of course, any knowledgeable gardener will tell you it’s better to take action to protect your flora while the sun is out, but hindsight is a wonderful thing, and if by the time you get to late summer you realise the damage has already been done, there are at least a few techniques that will begin the restoration process for your beloved garden.

Following the guidelines below will give your green space a chance to repair before the bareness of autumn and shivering sensibilities of winter bring about altogether different challenges!

Water water water

It’s the fuel that keeps your plants alive – water will stimulate stems, fire up flowers and galvanise grass, but moderation is the key, and as we’ve all experienced in the past, overwatering is just as bad as underwatering.

So take an organised route to regular hydration in the garden, and gradually bring things back to life.

Nothing but a dirty grass

Remove debris and dust to make the land as ready for replenishment as possible, with simple clearing away of organic residue exposing the ground to moisture and sunlight aplenty. And if you have a composting area then all these swept-away bits can be used to bolster what will become a fertile store that can be then reintroduced into your flower beds and earth areas.

Cut back to move forward

The more you mow, trim and prune, the quicker your greenery will spring back to life, so while a worthy exercise for the flora and fauna of your garden, you’ll undoubtedly feel enthused and enlightened at the renewed space you’ve created.

First-class fertiliser

The best way to boost growth where your living matter is concerned is with an approved, high-quality fertiliser.

Research well and choose a fertiliser that matches your environmental conscience, remembering not to apply until growth is already well on its way, or you’ll simply end up scorching the earth.

Starting afresh

And of course, the best way to get your garden humming again is to invest in it.

Consider plants, flowers and other additions that will suit the rustic autumn season to come.