With summer in full swing, July brings high temperatures and the need to pay special attention to our gardens. This month is crucial for keeping our green spaces in top condition, ensuring they can withstand the heat and continue to look spectacular. Below, we offer a guide to July gardening tips and tasks.
1. Fertilising
Choose the right fertiliser: Opt for fertilisers rich in phosphorus and potassium, as these nutrients promote flowering and strengthen the roots. Avoid fertilisers with a high nitrogen content, as they can encourage excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Frequency and method of application: It is advisable to fertilise every two weeks. Apply the fertiliser during the coolest hours of the day, such as early in the morning or at dusk, to avoid the sun scorching the plants. Water the plants after applying the fertiliser to help the nutrients absorb more effectively.
Type of fertiliser: Organic fertilisers, such as guano or compost, are excellent options for nourishing your plants in a natural and sustainable way. These fertilisers release nutrients slowly, providing steady and balanced feeding.
Precautions: Avoid applying fertiliser directly onto leaves or flowers, as it can cause burning. Also, make sure not to over-fertilise, as too many nutrients can be just as harmful as too few.
2. Planting
In July, although temperatures are high, we can still take the opportunity to plant certain species that will enhance our garden and ensure its vitality for the rest of summer. Choosing plants suited to Ibiza's Mediterranean climate not only guarantees their survival, but also minimises the maintenance required. Here are some recommendations for planting in July.
Fruit trees
Planting trees such as the carob tree, almond tree and olive tree remains an excellent option. These trees not only adapt well to the climate, but also provide shade and, in some cases, delicious fruit.
Ornamental trees
The cypress and Aleppo pine are perfect for adding structure and greenery to your garden all year round. Their drought resistance is a valuable bonus in the Ibiza climate.
Hardy shrubs
Shrubs such as lavender, rosemary and santolina are ideal for creating aromatic, low-maintenance borders. These shrubs thrive in full sun and well-drained soils, typical of the island's landscape.
Flowering plants
Take advantage of July to add flowers that will bring colour and life to your garden during the summer months.
Annual flowers
Species such as calendula, vinca and zinnia can handle the heat and provide vibrant colours quickly. These flowers are perfect for an instant touch of beauty.
Perennial flowers
Plants such as salvia, agastache and gaura are known for their durability and their ability to attract pollinators, benefiting the entire ecosystem of your garden.
Summer bulbs
Gladioli and dahlias are excellent additions for striking blooms later in the season. Planting them now ensures a floral display in the coming weeks.
Selecting the right trees, shrubs and flowers is essential to ensure a beautiful and resilient garden. In our production nursery in Santa Gertrudis, we grow km 0 plants and deliver them to our shops. In this way, we not only lay a solid foundation for your plants, but also reduce the need for maintenance in the warmer, drier months of the year.
3. Indoor plants
Indoor plants require special attention in July to maintain their health and vitality during the hottest months of the year. Below, we provide some tips to help your indoor plants thrive over summer.
Proper hydration
Watering is crucial in July, but it is important to find the right balance to avoid both overwatering and underwatering. Make sure your plants receive enough water, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to the development of pathogens and root rot. It is advisable to water when the top layer of the growing medium feels dry to the touch.
A humid microclimate
Grouping indoor plants together can help create a more humid microclimate that will benefit their growth. This grouping allows plants to retain moisture in the surrounding air more effectively. In addition, placing trays of water with pebbles under the pots can increase humidity around the plants without the roots being in direct contact with the water.
Misting the leaves
Indoor plants, especially tropical species, benefit from regularly misting their leaves with distilled or demineralised water. This practice not only helps maintain humidity, but also prevents pests such as red spider mites, which thrive in dry conditions. Mist the leaves at least once a day to keep them fresh and dust-free.
Pausing feeding
During July, it is advisable to pause feeding the indoor plants. Fertilising during this period can cause additional stress to plants due to the high temperatures. Resume feeding in September, when temperatures begin to drop and plants are better prepared to absorb nutrients without the risk of scorching or damage.
Protection against pests
Red spider mites and other common summer pests can seriously affect indoor plants. Keep the foliage well moisturised to prevent them appearing. If you spot pests, act quickly with specific treatments, such as acaricides or insecticides suitable for indoor plants.
Preparing for absences
If you plan to be away during the summer, make sure your plants have enough water. Consider using automatic watering systems or asking someone you trust to water them while you are away. Another option is to group the plants in a room with indirect light and place humidifiers to maintain the right environment.
4. Kitchen Garden
The vegetable garden requires intensive care in July to ensure an abundant, high-quality harvest. This month is especially important for harvesting and sowing certain crops that will benefit both your summer table and your preparations for autumn and winter.
Summer harvest
July is a month of abundance in the vegetable garden. It is the perfect time to harvest fruit and vegetables that have ripened under the summer sun. Here are some crops you can expect to harvest this month:
Peaches: These delicious fruits are ready to be picked. Make sure you harvest them when they are slightly soft to the touch and give off a sweet aroma.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are usually at their peak ripeness in July. Pick them when they are fully red (or the appropriate colour for the variety) and still slightly firm.
Courgettes: Courgettes grow quickly in summer. Harvest the fruits when they reach around 15-20 cm in length for the best flavour and texture.
Cucumbers: Harvest cucumbers when they are firm and have an even green colour.
Staking plants
Many garden plants need extra support as they grow to prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight of their fruit. This is the case for:
Tomatoes: Use stakes or cages to keep tomatoes upright and make harvesting easier.
Peppers: Peppers also benefit from staking, especially when they begin to produce large, heavy fruit.
Sowing for autumn and winter
July is not only a month for harvesting, but also for preparing for the seasons ahead. Now is the ideal time to sow vegetables that you'll harvest in autumn and winter. Here are some recommendations:
Broccoli: Sow broccoli seeds now for generous harvests in the cooler months.
Cauliflower: As with broccoli, cauliflower benefits from being sown in July for an autumn harvest.
Brassicas: Varieties such as kale and red cabbage are also perfect to sow at this time of year.
Carrots and turnips: These vegetables can be sown directly into the soil now for harvests in the months ahead.
General kitchen garden care
In July, it is essential to keep up a consistent watering routine, as high temperatures can quickly dry out the soil. Also, keep an eye on the vegetable garden for pests and diseases, using organic treatments whenever possible to protect both the plants and the environment.
