June in Ireland: A Blooming Delight
June is one of the most rewarding months for gardeners in Ireland. With longer days, mild temperatures, and a good balance of sunshine and showers, your garden is likely bursting into life. Whether you’re growing vegetables, tending to ornamental beds, or simply keeping your lawn tidy, June offers a perfect window to nurture, maintain, and enjoy your green space.
Here are some top tips for your garden this June:
1. Plant Summer Colour
Now is the time to fill any gaps in your borders or containers with vibrant annuals like petunias, marigolds, lobelias, and busy lizzies. For a wilder, more pollinator-friendly approach, scatter wildflower seeds in less formal areas—just make sure the soil stays moist until germination.
2. Water Wisely
Although Irish weather can be generous with rain, dry spells do occur—especially in eastern and southern counties. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Prioritize young plants, containers, and hanging baskets, which dry out faster.
3. Keep Weeds at Bay
Weeds love June’s growing conditions just as much as your prized plants. Regular hoeing or hand-pulling will keep them from taking over. A layer of mulch (like bark or compost) around plants will suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
4. Support Tall Plants
Perennials such as delphiniums, lupins, and peonies can grow rapidly in June and may need support. Use bamboo canes, plant rings, or decorative supports to prevent them flopping in heavy rain or wind.
5. Harvest Early Crops
If you sowed early in spring, crops like lettuce, radishes, early potatoes, and broad beans should be ready for harvesting. Pick regularly to encourage further production and keep the plants healthy.
6. Prune and Deadhead
Deadheading spent blooms on roses, bedding plants, and perennials encourages new flowers and prolongs blooming. For shrubs like spring-flowering forsythia or lilac, prune after they’ve finished flowering to shape them and promote growth for next year.
7. Feed Hungry Plants
Flowering plants and vegetables are working hard in June. Feed them with a balanced liquid fertilizer every couple of weeks to support strong growth and vibrant blooms. Tomatoes and cucumbers will benefit from a high-potash feed once they begin to set fruit.
8. Mind the Slugs and Snails
With lush growth comes more hiding places for pests. Check under leaves and at the base of plants, especially in damp corners. Use eco-friendly deterrents like copper tape, crushed eggshells, or wildlife-safe slug pellets.
Bonus Tip: Plan Ahead
Take a moment to note what’s working well and what’s not. June is a great time to observe your garden’s layout, colours, and plant health, helping you plan improvements for next year.
Final Thoughts
Gardening in Ireland in June is a joy—everything is alive, fresh, and full of potential. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, take time to enjoy the sights, scents, and satisfaction your garden offers this month. Come in and see us at Jesson Garden Centre and see what we have to brighten up your garden!
Happy gardening!
