I t’s time to...

Fork over mulch layers to prevent them developing a water-repellent crust

Add colour to the summer garden with a crepe myrtle (left). Look for one of the new Indian Summer varieties, which are mildew resistant.

Pick flowers for vases in the early morning, plunging them immediately into a bucket of cool water to help them last

Plant columbine seedlings in moist, well-drained soil in a semi-shaded spot

Keep birdbaths (above) topped up with fresh water and clean out any algae or fallen leaves, sticks and flowers

Stay indoors in the middle of hot days and garden in the morning or evening

Trim topiaries, and tie in new shoots on climbers growing on frames or trellises

Feed the lawn with either a slowrelease or organic-based food as these will be less likely to burn the grass

Pinch out any flowers that form on coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) and they will continue to produce their beautiful and colourful leaves

Deadhead agapanthus (right) to prevent their seeds spreading into bushland