Priscilla’s Garden To-Do List for July into August

Patrol for scale on Magnolia, Holly, Rhododendron, and foundation plantings where air does not readily circulate and remove by hand where feasible
Prune all spring flowering shrubs to create a natural shape, removing deadwood and crossing branches, creating air spaces, and lifting slightly off the ground
Selected spring flowering trees can be pruned now
Water new plantings according to local guidelines
Water containers at least every other day
Keep up with weeding and deadheading
Cut down any plant that is browned out or mildewed, as the root system will flush out fresh new growth
Cut back on lawn mowing when lawn browns out and reduce mowing frequency on still-green areas
Harvest beans, cucumbers, herbs, greens in the vegetable garden
Harvest garlic when only 5 green leaves remain on the plants and set to dry in a protected area
Pick blueberries and raspberries in the cool of the morning
Cut back strawberry foliage and remove runners to renew the plants
Top off mulch if bare soil emerges after a heavy weeding or deep watering
Take in garden tours and plant shows as your energy permits
Take time to relax and recharge in your garden