COLUMN: Gardening on a budget in July: Enjoying the harvest
By July, the garden is no longer just about growth, it is about abundance.
I always feel this is the point where all those steady habits built in June really start to pay off.
Beds are full, colours are vibrant and if you have kept up with watering, mulching and regular sowing, you should now be enjoying a satisfying mix of flowers and fresh produce.
With warmer temperatures, maintaining moisture remains key. I try to stick to watering early in the morning or later in the evening, especially for crops like courgettes, tomatoes and beans that are fruiting heavily now. Try to avoid watering directly onto foliage as his can cause scorch damage or rotting. If you mulched well last month, you will notice how much easier this becomes, saving both time and water.
July is also a moment to be selective. Harvesting little and often really makes a difference. I have learned the hard way that a courgette left too long quickly turns into something too big to handle or can be watery and slows the plant down. Salad leaves, especially cut and come again varieties, will reward you if you keep picking.
You can still sow small batches of quick crops such as lettuce, rocket and radishes to keep things going. At the same time, I like to start thinking ahead again, sowing biennials like sweet Williams, angelica or foxgloves for colour next year.
Of course, July often brings a glut. Courgettes are usually the main culprit, appearing faster than you can use them. Sharing with neighbours is part of the joy of gardening, but it is also good to have a few simple recipes ready. Why not try this one:
Simple Courgette and Herb Fritters
Grate 2 to 3 courgettes and squeeze out the excess moisture. Mix with a beaten egg, a handful of flour, chopped herbs such as mint or chives, and a little salt and pepper. Fry spoonfuls in a little oil until golden on both sides. I like to serve them with a spoonful of yoghurt.
Top tips for July gardening on a budget
• Keep harvesting little and often to boost yields
• Water consistently, focusing on fruiting crops
• Continue sowing quick crops like salad leaves
• Pick courgettes young to avoid a glut of marrows
• Save seeds from early successes
• Share surplus produce with friends and neighbours
• Cut back herbs regularly to keep them productive
• Plan ahead with biennials for next year
July is a time to enjoy what you have grown, simple, seasonal and shaped by the care you put in earlier in the year.