The most crucial point in maintaining your garden is ensuring that your plants have enough water daily, especially in hot weather. Water all plants early in the morning or late evening. Do not shower plants under the hot sun, leaves will scorch with water and the sun’s heat.

Regular fertilizer application is crucial for healthy plant growth. A little fertilizer applied often is better than a bigger application at further intervals. Applying every 2 weeks would be recommended.

Small potted plants require a misting of weaker strength liquid fertilizer on leaves and soil as part of the watering schedule. Larger outdoor shrubs and trees in planters or ground will require monthly application of liquid or granular fertilizer, especially around the dripline (the circumference below the outermost leaves and branches of shrubs or trees).

Fertilizers may be your choice of chemical or organic origin or a mix. Both are suitable for outdoor exotics and trees, but an organic fertilizer is best for the kitchen or the edibles garden.

Always thoroughly water granular fertilizers into the soil after each application.

Regular pruning is necessary to keep shrubs and trees in shape, tidy and to maintain desired height. Removing diseased or dead plant parts and leaves will encourage new growth. Always apply fertilizer lightly and water-in after pruning.

Deadheading of old flowers and seed pods encourages more frequent budding and a longer flowering period.