August is a critical month for gardeners, especially those who are invested in urban farming and maintaining lush, colorful landscapes. As the summer heat intensifies, so do the demands on your garden, especially when it comes to caring for perennials flowers, such as roses and other August bloomers. With a few strategic moves, you can keep your garden vibrant, healthy, and pest-free, ensuring it flourishes well into the fall.

One of the most important tasks this month is reapplying mulch where it has been blown or pulled away. Mulch is crucial for retaining soil moisture, suppressing weeds, and regulating soil temperature, all of which are essential for the health of your flowers. Aim to maintain a 1 to 2-inch layer of mulch, particularly around your perennials. This small effort can make a significant difference, especially when it comes to flowers like roses, which benefit from consistent moisture levels during the dry August days.

Urban farming enthusiasts should also focus on the structural support of their tall-blooming flowers like gladiola and delphinium. These plants tend to grow tall and can easily topple over if not properly staked. This not only helps maintain their beauty but also prevents potential damage during windy conditions, common in late summer. Additionally, now is the perfect time to plant fall-blooming perennials such as asters, mums, and fall sedum. These flowers will provide a burst of color as the season transitions, keeping your garden lively and attractive.

In terms of routine maintenance, lawn mowing, and pest control should remain high on your priority list. While it’s essential to keep your lawn neat and tidy, regular feeding and watering of your flowers should not be overlooked. Hanging baskets, in particular, need daily attention, as the wind and sun can dry them out quickly. Fertilizing your flowers with products like T&C Fruit & Flower Food or Fertilome Water Soluble 20-20-20 will ensure they receive the nutrients necessary for continued growth. For pots and hanging baskets, consider feeding them weekly to maintain their vigor.

Lastly, don’t forget to divide overcrowded irises after they have bloomed. This not only revitalizes the plant but also improves the overall health of your garden. Dig up the entire clump, discard any old rhizomes with no leaves, and replant the healthy ones after enhancing the soil with soil enhancers and a little Super Phosphate. By staying on top of these tasks, you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving garden that stands strong through the final days of summer and transitions gracefully into fall.