COLUMN: Gardening on a budget in June - making the most of early summer

Plants are growing quickly, beds are filling out, and you can begin to enjoy the results of all the work done in spring. It is an exciting time, and a good moment to stay mindful of costs as everything speeds up.

With warmer, longer days, watering becomes more important. Keeping things simple can save both time and money. Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation, and collect rainwater if you can. Adding a layer of mulch, such as homemade compost or grass clippings, helps keep moisture in the soil so you do not have to water as often.

June is also a great time to grow courgettes, whether you started them earlier or are sowing seeds now. They are quick to germinate and grow strongly in warm soil, making them a reliable and cost-effective crop. With just a few plants, you can enjoy a steady harvest through the summer, especially if you keep them well watered and pick regularly.

This is a month to keep sowing little and often. Instead of planting everything at once, sow small batches of salad leaves, radishes or beetroot every couple of weeks. This gives you a steady harvest and avoids waste, helping you get the most from each packet of seeds.

Weeds will also grow quickly now, so it is worth keeping on top of them. A quick hoe on a dry day can deal with young weeds before they spread, reducing competition and saving you from needing extra feeding later.

Wildlife is very active in June, and a healthy garden will soon attract visitors. From bees and butterflies to other beneficial insects, these small moments are a reminder that even the simplest planting can help support local biodiversity.

Flowers such as cosmos, calendula and cornflowers are easy wins, while choices like phacelia bring a softer, more natural feel and attract a wide range of pollinators. Letting herbs such as chives or mint flower is another simple way to create a welcoming space for wildlife.

You can also make plants work harder. Nasturtiums are a great low-cost choice, easy to grow, colourful, and useful for companion planting, helping draw pests away from crops like beans and brassicas.

Finally, think ahead. Let a few plants go to seed for next year, and divide herbs such as mint, chives and oregano to create new plants for free. Try not to rush to fill every gap either, many plants will soon spread and fill spaces naturally.

Top tips for gardening on a budget in June:

• Water early or late in the day

• Collect rainwater where possible

• Sow small amounts regularly

• Grow courgettes from seed for a reliable crop

• Hoe weeds while they are young

• Grow pollinator-friendly flowers

• Use nasturtiums for companion planting

• Save seed and divide herbs

• Be patient and let plants fill gaps

June is all about keeping things going. With a few simple habits, you can enjoy a garden that feels full, colourful and alive, without spending more.

This column has been provided by resident gardener Kate Giffen