Rockery mulch Weed rockeries and replace gravel mulches, watering if the soil is dry. Some trees and shrubs have a habit of producing unwanted shoots from their base, or from the stems of those trained as standards. Variegata' produces a thick crop of plain green shoots from the base. Cut these cleanly away with secateurs to prevent them sapping strength from the plant. Pruning Cut out plain shoots growing on variegated shrubs.
Summer is the best time to prune away any unwanted green shoots.
Flower garden General care Greenhouse Kitchen garden Wildlife Latest bulletins from the horticultural scene. Visit BBC Radio 4's Gardeners' Question Time site for more topical tips . You can buy items for your seasonal jobs online.