From Frost to Flower: A Weekly Guide to Thriving in Your Garden All Year

Gardening routines naturally shift with the seasons, guided by changing weather, daylight, and the growth cycles of plants. But what if you looked beyond just sowing seeds and trimming hedges?

The garden is more than just a weekend project. It’s an ever-evolving space that grows with you throughout the year. Whether it's prepping for spring, tidying in autumn, or simply enjoying the summer bloom from your garden room, small weekly tasks make a big difference.

This guide by Cabin Master gardening expert Melissa Quinney, breaks down the year week by week, offering practical tips to help you stay on top of your garden - whatever the season.

Click to skip to gardening tips for each season:  

• Autumn 
• Winter
• Spring
• Summer

Gardening Tips for Autumn

Week 33 (August) - Plan your watering schedule carefully, especially if you’re going on holiday

During hot spells, water plants early in the morning so moisture reaches the roots before the sun causes rapid evaporation. If you’re going away, a simple DIY irrigation system can keep pots and flower beds hydrated while you’re gone. 

Remember to top up birdbaths and shallow dishes for bees, butterflies, and other garden visitors, giving them essential relief in the heat. Whenever possible, use greywater or rainwater collected in a water butt to conserve mains water, reduce waste, and keep your garden thriving sustainably through the summer.

Week 34 (August) - Protect and refresh your houseplants in the height of summer

In the height of summer, give your houseplants a little extra care. Check they’re not being scorched by strong sunlight through windows, and adjust their position if needed. Keep them well-watered, and on warm, calm days, consider moving them outside to a sheltered spot where they can enjoy fresh air and gentle light. 

Continue feeding with liquid fertiliser until after flowering to maintain healthy growth and vibrant blooms. By protecting them from extremes and providing the right conditions, your houseplants will thrive well into the season.

Week 35 (August) - Collect and store seeds to grow in your garden next year

Collect seeds and ripe seed pods from your favourite flowers and vegetables to prepare for next year’s garden. Select healthy, mature seeds and store them in a cool, dry place to keep them viable for planting. Proper storage helps ensure better germination, and stronger plants in the future. 

Saving seeds not only reduces the need to buy new plants but also supports biodiversity by preserving varieties suited to your garden. By doing so, you help local ecosystems thrive, providing food and habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects.

Week 36 (August/September) - Plant autumn bulbs for colour and comfort in the colder months

Plant autumn bulbs like cyclamen, heathers, and other hardy bedding plants now to brighten your garden through autumn and winter. These vibrant colours add warmth and create a cosy atmosphere as days grow shorter and cooler. It’s important to choose resilient varieties that help ensure blooms despite unpredictable weather. 

Beyond beauty, these plants provide valuable nectar and shelter for late-season pollinators and birds, supporting wildlife when food is scarce. Ultimately, autumn planting not only extends your garden’s colour, but also its ecological benefits during the colder months.

Week 37 (September) - Clean out and prepare your greenhouse for autumn

As autumn approaches, it’s time to give your greenhouse some TLC. Remove any shading you’ve set up during the summer, to let in as much light as possible before the days get shorter. Close vents on cooler nights and check your heaters to keep plants cosy as temperatures drop. Clear out old compost and decaying plants to stop pests and diseases from settling in over winter. 

Don’t forget to clean gutters to prevent blockages and water damage. Importantly, good maintenance now helps create a healthy environment for your plants and protects helpful insects sheltering nearby.

Week 38 (September) - Plant spring bulbs now to enjoy a beautiful bloom next year

Autumn is the ideal time to plant spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths so they can develop strong roots before winter. If your garden soil is heavy or wet, try planting bulbs in pots placed outside or in a sheltered spot. 

Indoor planting works well too, if space allows for this. With unpredictable weather patterns, planting at the right depth and mulching helps protect bulbs from temperature swings. Getting bulbs in the soil now means you’ll enjoy vibrant spring flowers that also support early pollinators when they need food the most.

Week 39 (September) - Adjust houseplant care as the weather becomes cooler

As nights grow colder, it’s time to ease back on your watering habits, as plants need less moisture when growth slows in the autumn/winter. 

Bring any houseplants that spent summer outside back indoors before temperatures drop too low, avoiding cold windowsills at night where chill and condensation can harm them. Find the sunniest spots in your home to help them soak up dwindling daylight, and wipe leaves clean to maximize light absorption. Remember to check for small pests hiding in soil or foliage. Caring for your plants now keeps them healthy and thriving through the colder months.

Week 40 (September/October) - Clean and sharpen your garden tools to keep them in good condition after a busy summer

Pick a dry, mild day to clean, sharpen, and oil your secateurs, loppers, hoes, and spades. This simple upkeep helps tools last longer and makes your gardening easier and safer during the wet months ahead. 

Sharp blades give cleaner cuts that heal quickly, reducing disease risk. Remove dirt and rust with a wire brush, sharpen carefully, then apply oil to protect against corrosion. Well-maintained tools also prevent spreading pests or fungal spores, helping your plants, and the bees and butterflies they support, stay healthy all season.

Week 41 (October) - Start filling bird feeders to support birds as food becomes scarce

As autumn progresses and temperatures drop, natural food for garden birds becomes scarce. Now is a great time to start filling feeders with fat balls, sunflower hearts, and unsalted peanuts to help them through colder months. 

Warmer autumns from climate change might delay when birds rely on feeders, but sudden cold snaps can still surprise them. Keep feeders clean and topped up to prevent disease and ensure a steady food supply. Feeding birds not only supports local wildlife but also helps control garden pests by encouraging insect-eating species.

Week 42 (October) - Collect and store leaves to create nutrient-rich leaf mould

As leaves start to fall, especially from trees like cherry and birch, rake them up and store in black bin bags with air holes or wire mesh bags. Over a year or two, they’ll break down into leaf mould, which is a fantastic, peat-free soil conditioner that improves soil structure and moisture. 

This is an easy, sustainable way to recycle garden waste. Don’t worry about collecting every leaf - small piles in quiet corners create cosy habitats for hedgehogs, frogs, and helpful insects. Leaf mould supports healthy soil and wildlife, helping your garden thrive naturally.

Week 43 (October) - Prepare your lawn for winter with scarifying, aerating, and feeding

Now is the perfect time to give your lawn some TLC by scarifying, aerating, and feeding it before winter arrives. 

Scarifying removes moss and dead grass, improving airflow and nutrient uptake. Aerating by spiking the soil helps drainage and prevents waterlogging, which can worsen with heavier rains. Feeding with a high-potassium autumn fertiliser strengthens roots, helping your lawn withstand frost and bounce back in spring. 

A healthy lawn also supports soil life like earthworms, which in turn feed birds. Thoughtful lawn care makes your garden more resilient and wildlife-friendly all year round.

Week 44 (October/November) - Protect garden furniture and equipment before winter weather hits

As colder, wetter weather sets in, it’s a good idea to bring garden furniture, barbecues, and hosepipes indoors to protect them from frost and rain. Storing hosepipes inside helps prevent cracks and reduces plastic pollution. 

For larger items like benches or fire pits, cover them securely to shield against harsh weather. With winters becoming wetter and windier, taking these steps now helps extend the life of your outdoor gear. Plus, keeping storage areas tidy discourages wildlife from nesting in places where they could be disturbed or at risk.

Gardening Tips for Winter

Week 45 (November) - Mulch now to protect plants and soil through frosty months

As frost approaches, apply a thick layer of mulch, like compost, bark chips, or leaf mould, around the base of tender plants to shield their roots. 

Before mulching, cut back any faded perennials to keep things tidy. Mulching bare soil after harvest helps prevent erosion and feeds the soil’s beneficial microbes. 

With frosts becoming less predictable, mulch acts as an important insulating layer, supporting soil life like earthworms and overwintering insects that keep your garden healthy and thriving year after year.

Week 46 (November) - Water wisely in winter to prevent plant diseases

In winter, both indoor and outdoor plants need less water, but it’s important to avoid splashing their leaves. Water sitting on foliage dries slowly in the cool, damp air, increasing the risk of fungal diseases like grey mould and powdery mildew. Instead, water at the base of the plant, and only when the topsoil feels dry. 

With winters becoming milder and wetter, fungal issues may become more common, so careful watering helps keep your plants healthy. 

Week 47 (November) - Prevent rose black spot by clearing infected leaves

Keep an eye on your rose beds for fallen leaves showing black spot, a fungal disease that can survive through winter. Remove and discard these infected leaves carefully. For example, don’t compost or add them to leaf mould, as that spreads the disease. 

With warmer, wetter autumns, black spot can linger longer, so staying vigilant is key. Healthy roses not only brighten your garden but also support pollinators in spring, so clearing infected debris now helps protect your plants and nearby gardens from this stubborn disease.

Week 48 (November) - Create winter decorations from garden leftovers

Take a walk around your garden and gather pinecones, holly, seed heads, and evergreen clippings to craft your own wreaths, garlands, and winter decorations. Dry everything thoroughly to prevent mould, then enjoy arranging them into beautiful, eco-friendly pieces that avoid plastic waste. 

However, it is important to leave some seed heads behind for birds and other wildlife to enjoy too! 

Making your own decorations not only celebrates the natural beauty of the season but also fosters a deeper connection to your garden. It’s a lovely, low-cost way to involve children, teaching them about nature, creativity, and the changing seasons.

Week 49 (November/December) - Take hardwood cuttings to grow new plants

Late autumn/early winter is the perfect time to take hardwood cuttings from dormant plants like dogwood, gooseberry, rose, honeysuckle, willow, and vine climbers. Cut straight across the base and at an angle on top, so you remember which end to plant. Insert cuttings two-thirds deep into gritty compost in a pot or trench, leaving just the top third exposed, and water weekly. 

This simple, low-cost method preserves favourite varieties and supports biodiversity by creating new habitats for wildlife. Growing your own also reduces the need for commercially transported plants, lowering your carbon footprint while ensuring strong, healthy plants for the future.

Week 50 (December) - Hard prune deciduous shrubs and hedges

December is the perfect time to give overgrown deciduous shrubs and hedges a hard prune while they’re dormant. Cutting back now helps restore shape, improves airflow, and encourages strong new growth in spring. 

Skip evergreen or spring-flowering shrubs for now, as you could remove next year’s blooms. 

Before you start, check dense growth for hibernating wildlife like hedgehogs, as milder winters mean some animals stay active later than expected. Careful pruning keeps plants healthy, supports pollinators, and ensures fruiting species can feed birds and other wildlife through the seasons.

Week 51 (December) - Boost humidity in the winter to keep houseplants happy

When central heating is running, indoor air can become uncomfortably dry for houseplants. Give them a little extra moisture by misting their leaves, setting pots on pebble trays filled with water, or placing a humidifier nearby. Grouping plants together also helps create a naturally more humid microclimate. 

This extra care prevents browning leaf tips and keeps pests like spider mites at bay. However, you should remember to keep plants away from direct heat sources, as this can quickly dehydrate them. 

Week 52 (December)

As Christmas festivities approach their end, it’s good to think about how to responsibly part with your real Christmas tree. Many councils offer curbside collection or drop-off points where trees are chipped into mulch or compost. 

However, you can also repurpose it at home. For example, the branches can be used to build a wildlife-friendly dead hedge, or they can be stacked in a sheltered corner for birds, insects, and small mammals. As warmer winters affect seasonal patterns, natural shelters can make a real difference for wildlife. Whatever you choose, avoid sending it to landfill and let your tree continue giving back to the environment well beyond Christmas.

Week 1 (December/January) - Use mulch to protect plants from frost and cold winds
Apply a thick layer (5–10cm) of organic mulch, such as bark chips, compost, or straw, around the base of plants, particularly perennials and shrubs. This helps to insulate the soil, regulating any temperature changes and preventing roots from freezing during frosty nights.

Mulch also helps to reduce moisture loss and it protects soil from erosion caused by winter wind and rain. As climate change leads to more unpredictable weather, with sudden warm spells followed by sharp frosts, insulating your plants becomes even more critical. Avoid covering plant crowns directly, as this can encourage rot.

Week 2 (January) - Check and refresh garden tools before the busy season starts
This is a great time to take stock of your gardening tools and supplies for the year ahead. Check secateurs, spades, and loppers for any rust or damage. It is a good idea to sharpen and oil them so they’re ready to go for a busy spring. 

Additionally, have a look at what you’ve got in terms of compost, seeds, labels, netting, stakes, and canes, and make a note of anything running low. Ordering early helps avoid spring shortages. Being prepared now means less stress later, especially with the growing season becoming less predictable year by year.

Week 3 (January) - Prune dormant plants, especially fruit trees and winter shrubs

Winter is the ideal time to prune apple and pear trees while they’re dormant. Shaping the tree now encourages stronger growth and better fruit production later in the year. Focus on removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. 

However, you should avoid pruning during very cold or frosty weather, as this can harm plant tissue and slow healing. 

You can also prune climbing roses and winter-flowering shrubs like mahonia or viburnum at this time. Remember to always use clean, sharp tools to ensure smooth cuts and reduce the risk of spreading disease.

Week 4 (January) - Make the most of bare-root planting season
January is ideal for planting bare-root plants, as the soil is moist and roots have time to properly establish before spring. When planting, you should choose a dry day when the ground isn’t frozen. 

To plant these types of foliage, you should dig a hole wide enough to accommodate roots without them bending or twisting, firm the plant in gently, and water well. It is also a good idea to use organic mulch to insulate the base. 

As climate change is making water less reliable or available, due to droughts and unpredictable rainfall, bare-root planting is a smart choice. It helps plants settle in more easily and encourages stronger root growth, all while needing less watering than other planting methods, like container-grown plants.

Week 5 (January/February) - Inspect and repair garden structures after winter
Once the worst of the winter weather has passed, it’s a good time to check your garden for any damage caused by storms or freezing conditions. 

Take a walk around and inspect fences, sheds, greenhouses, and cold frames for loose panels, broken glass, or worn-out hinges. 

Winter storms, often more severe in recent years, can cause both sudden and slow damage. Make any repairs early to avoid bigger issues later, and remember that secure structures also help protect any wildlife sheltering inside, like nesting birds or overwintering insects.

Week 6 (February) - Snowdrops: A welcome sign of the spring to come
If you wish to have snowdrops in your garden, it’s best to plant them in February, when they’re ‘in the green’ (already growing), as this allows them to establish more quickly than dry bulbs. 

Choose a moist, well-drained spot in partial shade, and plant in small groups of three to five, keeping the leaves intact. Water well and mulch lightly. 

Snowdrops also provide an early source of nectar for pollinators like bees, which are emerging earlier in the year as winters grow milder.

Week 7 (February) - Cut back any winter-flowering shrubs
Once flowering has finished, give winter shrubs like jasmine, mahonia, and viburnum a light prune to shape them and promote healthy growth for next year. Remove any dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches, and always use clean, sharp tools. Aim to do this on a mild, dry day to help the cuts heal well. 

With winters becoming milder and bloom times shifting, timely pruning helps these shrubs stay compact, flower reliably, and better withstand strong winds or unexpected spring frosts.

Week 8 (February) - Spot the signs of hidden pests early

Begin checking both houseplants and greenhouse plants for early signs of common pests like vine weevil (look for notched leaves and grubs in the soil) and red spider mite, which leave fine webs and speckled foliage. These pests thrive in warm environments and, with UK winters becoming milder, they’re increasingly active year-round. 

Use sticky traps, neem oil, or beneficial nematodes to manage them naturally. Keeping numbers down now helps prevent spring outbreaks. On top of this, if you’re moving pots, take care not to disturb hibernating insects or sheltering wildlife.

Week 9 (February/March) - Tidy up garden debris, but watch out for unseen guests
Clear fallen leaves, branches, and dead plant material from lawns and borders to let in light and improve airflow. This will help prevent mould and encourage healthy early spring growth. 

However, before you begin, you should always check carefully for wildlife. Hedgehogs, frogs, and insects often shelter in warm, protected piles over winter. Lift debris gently, and where possible, leave some areas undisturbed. As winters become milder, hibernating animals may be more easily disturbed, so extra care during clean-up can make a real difference to their survival.

Gardening Tips for Spring

Week 10 (March) - Feed outdoor plants early with organic fertiliser to boost spring growth
March is the time to begin feeding outdoor plants and shrubs with an organic, slow-release fertiliser like composted manure, seaweed feed, or other plant-based options. 

Sprinkle the feed evenly around the base and water it in well. It’s best to avoid overdoing it, as a little goes a long way. Organic fertilisers improve soil health over time, which is especially important as climate changes bring more erratic rainfall and nutrient loss. Healthier soil also supports vital insect life and microorganisms.

Week 11 (March) - Start sowing ‘tender’ crop seeds indoors
Start sowing tender crop seeds like chillies, tomatoes, and cucumbers indoors, ideally in a greenhouse or warm, bright space. Use seed trays or small pots filled with seed compost, and sow seeds about 0.5–1cm deep. Keep the compost lightly moist, and maintain a temperature around 18–21°C to encourage strong germination. 

Starting these heat-loving crops early gives them time to develop before being planted outdoors later in spring. With increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, early indoor sowing also helps avoid crop stress from sudden cold snaps or summer heatwaves.

Week 12 (March) - Begin sowing hardier veg outdoors
Begin sowing hardy vegetables such as broad beans, carrots, and parsnips directly into well-prepared garden beds. Rake the soil to a fine texture and follow the recommended sowing depths on seed packets. 

These crops can tolerate cooler weather, but if a frost is expected, it’s best to cover the rows with fleece for protection. Early sowing helps make the most of the growing season and spreads out harvest times. However, you should keep an eye out for birds disturbing freshly sown areas. A light cover may help keep them at bay.

Week 13 (March) - Tidy beds and add mulch to prep soil for spring growth
As new shoots start to appear, continue tidying up planting beds by gently clearing away old leaves and plant debris. However, you should take care not to disturb any insects or wildlife still sheltering in the undergrowth. 

Weed any early growth, then apply a 5cm layer of organic mulch to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil. Mulching is especially helpful as climate change leads to more unpredictable rainfall; it keeps soil conditions more stable, and supports the organisms plants rely on. Take care to keep mulch slightly away from plant stems to avoid encouraging rot.

Week 14 (March/April) - Lift and replant snowdrops while they’re still leafy
Once snowdrops have finished flowering but are still leafy (‘in the green’), it’s a great time to lift and divide them. Use a garden fork to gently lift clumps, then carefully separate the bulbs and replant them straight away in moist, partially shaded spots. 

Replanting while they’re still green gives the bulbs time to settle in and store energy for next year’s growth. Dividing snowdrops not only encourages a fuller display next spring, but also helps them spread, providing more early nectar for emerging pollinators.

Week 15 (April) - Repair bare patches and sow new grass during April’s ideal conditions
Early April is a great time to repair bare patches or sow a new lawn, as warmer temperatures and spring showers create ideal conditions for grass to take root. 

Begin by raking over any damaged areas to remove dead grass and loosen the soil. Scatter the seed evenly, then lightly rake again so it settles into place. Water gently and consistently, around three to four times a week, to keep the soil moist while seeds establish. Importantly, getting started now gives your lawn the best chance to thrive before the heat of summer. 

For extra resilience, try a drought-tolerant or clover-rich seed mix.

Week 16 (April) - Help houseplants thrive with weekly liquid fertiliser
As days grow longer and houseplants come out of their winter rest, it’s a good time to start feeding them once a week with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Apply it to moist soil to avoid root burn, and reduce feeding if the plant is in a low-light area. 

Regular feeding in spring supports healthy new growth, stronger stems, and future flowering. Indoor plants often deal with dry air, central heating, and artificial light - all of which can disrupt their natural rhythms. A steady feeding routine helps them bounce back and thrive through the changing season.

Week 17 (April) - Deadhead spring bulbs, but leave their foliage
Once spring bulbs like daffodils and tulips finish blooming, gently snip off the faded flower heads to stop the plant from wasting energy on seed production. Be sure to leave the foliage in place until it naturally turns yellow, as the leaves are still photosynthesising and helping the bulb store energy for next year’s display. 

Avoid tying or cutting back green leaves too early, as it can weaken the bulb. With temperatures becoming more unpredictable, this simple care step helps bulbs recover and bloom even better next spring.

Week 18 (April/May) - Collect rainwater to keep your garden thriving
Set up a water butt under a downpipe or gutter to capture April’s spring showers. This collected rainwater can be used to water containers, vegetable beds, and greenhouse plants as temperatures rise. 

With rainfall becoming less reliable and hosepipe bans more likely during warmer months, saving water this way eases the strain on mains supplies. Rainwater is also gentler on plants, especially those that prefer acidic soil like blueberries and camellias. Be sure to cover your water butt with a lid or mesh to keep out debris and mosquitoes, and clean it out annually.

Week 19 (May) - Gradually harden off tender seedlings
Begin acclimatising tender seedlings like tomatoes, courgettes, and bedding plants by placing them outside during the day in a sheltered spot and bringing them indoors at night. Do this for 7–14 days to help them adjust slowly to outdoor conditions. 

Sudden exposure to wind, sun, or cold can easily shock young plants. With climate extremes becoming more common, this gradual transition reduces transplant shock, strengthens resilience, and improves survival rates. Start on overcast days and shield plants from strong winds for the best results.

Week 20 (May) - Adjust houseplant watering in warmer weather

As May brings warmer temperatures, your houseplants will naturally need more water to meet the demands of faster growth and higher evaporation. However, it’s just as important to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot and other issues. Gauge the soil’s moisture before watering by feeling an inch or two below the surface with your finger. If the topsoil feels dry, it’s time to water.

Keep in mind that shifting climate patterns can cause indoor conditions to vary, with changes in temperature and humidity affecting your plants’ needs. By adjusting your watering schedule based on these conditions, you’ll help your houseplants stay healthy and vibrant throughout the warmer months.

Week 21 (May) - Preserve wood furniture through the summer

May is the perfect time to treat your garden furniture so it’s ready for the sunny months ahead. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, particularly UV rays, can cause untreated wood to fade, dry out, and eventually crack. Applying a wood treatment with UV-resistant properties helps preserve the furniture’s original colour, protects against damage, and extends its lifespan.

With warmer and sunnier summers becoming more common, outdoor wood surfaces face greater stress and deterioration. Taking the time to protect your furniture now not only keeps it looking its best but also reduces the need for frequent replacements, helping to cut down on waste and your garden’s environmental footprint.

Week 22 (May) - Add shading to protect plants from overheating

As temperatures climb, providing shading in greenhouses and other sunny garden spots becomes essential. Direct sunlight can lead to overheating and scorching, which stresses plants and lowers their productivity. Installing shade cloths or blinds helps keep temperatures in check and shields delicate crops from sunburn.

By adding shade, you not only protect plant health, but also create better conditions for beneficial insects. This helps to maintain a balanced, thriving garden ecosystem.

Gardening Tips for Summer

Week 23 (June) - Use netting to protect ripening fruit and veg

Birds love to feast on developing fruits and vegetables, especially soft berries and ripening produce. To keep your harvest safe, cover vulnerable plants with fine bird netting. This creates a protective barrier that stops birds from reaching your crops while still letting in sunlight, air, and rain.

You should always use netting responsibly, to avoid trapping wildlife. Secure it tightly and check it regularly. 

With climate change altering bird migration and feeding habits, protecting your crops has never been more important. Netting is an effective way to reduce losses while keeping birds safe and maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem.

Week 24 (June) - Check for caterpillars before the cause any damage

In summer, caterpillars are at their most active and can strip plants of their leaves in no time (if left unchecked). Regularly inspect plants for chewed or damaged foliage, as early detection is key to preventing serious harm.

To deter caterpillars naturally, try strong-smelling treatments such as neem oil, which won’t harm pollinators like bees. Using organic pest control methods not only protects your plants but also supports a healthy garden ecosystem - something that’s increasingly important as climate change may boost pest numbers by lengthening growing seasons and shifting their habitats. 

Week 25 (June) - Grow fresh herbs on your windowsill for easy seasoning

Sowing herbs like basil, parsley, thyme, and chives on your kitchen windowsill is a simple way to have fresh, homegrown seasoning all year round. These herbs thrive in small pots indoors and don’t need much space.

Growing your own herbs is not only budget-friendly but also helps cut down on packaging waste. Having fresh herbs within easy reach encourages cooking with vibrant, nutritious ingredients. Plus, an indoor herb garden can improve air quality and add a splash of green to your kitchen, especially when outdoor gardening slows down during colder months.

Week 26 (June) - Re-pot top-heavy houseplants for stability

If a houseplant has grown top-heavy, re-potting is essential to stop it from toppling over and getting damaged. This happens when the root system is too small to support the plant’s upper growth, making it unstable.

To re-pot, gently remove the plant from its container, trim away any dead roots, and place it into a slightly larger pot filled with fresh compost. This extra space allows the roots to grow and better support the plant. Re-potting also refreshes the soil and nutrients, a boost that’s especially helpful as fluctuating indoor temperatures from heating and cooling can put extra stress on your plants.

Week 27 (June/July) - Trim fast-growing hedges, while keeping wildlife in mind

Fast-growing hedges like privet respond well to an early summer trim, helping them stay neat, dense, and healthy. A light cut encourages fresh growth, improves air circulation, and keeps the hedge in good shape while continuing to provide valuable shelter for insects and small animals.

Before you pick up the shears, though, take time to check carefully for nesting birds – especially robins, blackbirds, and wrens, which may be raising chicks. Disturbing an active nest is not only harmful to wildlife but is also against the law during the nesting season.

Week 28 (July) - Turn garden waste into nutrient-rich compost

Collecting and composting garden waste is a simple, effective way to recycle organic matter while boosting soil health. To create a rich, balanced compost, alternate layers of ‘green’ material, such as grass clippings, vegetable peelings, or fresh plant trimmings, with ‘brown’ material like dry leaves, twigs, or shredded cardboard.

This layering not only speeds up decomposition but also helps lock carbon into the soil, a process known as carbon sequestration. By storing carbon in organic matter, composting reduces greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and plays a part in tackling climate change.

Week 29 (July) - Water and mulch for healthy fruit plants

In summer, fruit trees and bushes need consistent watering to support strong growth and good yields. 

Water deeply to encourage deep roots, then add a layer of mulch around the base. Mulching helps lock in moisture, reduce evaporation, and keep roots cool in hot weather. These simple steps not only boost harvest quality but also support wildlife that relies on fruit for food.

Week 30 (July) - Take key steps to balance humidity and airflow in the greenhouse

On summer mornings, lightly dampen the greenhouse floor to raise humidity, helping prevent leaf curl and stress in plants. At the same time, keep doors and windows open to improve airflow, removing stagnant air and reducing the risk of fungal diseases. 

This balance between moisture and ventilation helps prevent mold, keeps plants healthy, and supports steady growth. While greenhouses do need careful daily management, these steps help create an ideal environment for thriving crops, even in the heat of midsummer.

Week 31 (July/August) - Have a mid-season garden check-up

With your garden in full swing, take time to walk around and review its layout and planting. Spot any gaps where you could add seasonal flowers or vegetables, and note areas that feel overcrowded. Dense planting can block light and airflow, weakening plants and increasing disease risk. 

By planning adjustments now, you’ll be ready for autumn planting and can keep growth healthy and balanced. Regularly reassessing your garden also helps you adapt to changing conditions, ensuring it remains vibrant and productive all season long.

Week 32 (August) - Prune lavender and roses to keep plants healthy and blooming

Late summer is the perfect time to refresh your garden by deadheading and pruning. Remove spent lavender blooms, taking care not to cut into old wood, which may not regrow. For rose bushes, prune up to a third of stems that have already flowered to encourage new shoots and stronger blooms. 

These steps keep plants neat, improve airflow, and reduce disease risk, ensuring they stay vigorous and continue providing flowers and food for pollinators.

About Melissa Quinney, Garden Expert at Cabin Master

Melissa Quinney is a garden writer at Cabin Master. Joining the team in 2023 to support the Cabin Master team, she has a wealth of knowledge and passion for outdoor living spaces, and home improvement, and brings a deep passion for creating functional, beautiful outdoor garden environments.

Melissa holds a Masters in Creative Writing, specialising in fiction and poetry, and a Bachelor of Arts focused in English Literature and Creative Writing from Oxford Brookes University.