Gardening techniques for late summer maintenance

Various gardening techniques are highlighted for late summer maintenance. For strawberries, it is critical to ensure the crown is at soil level during replanting to prevent rot or drying. Leeks benefit from hilling in August, which stabilizes the plant and encourages white, tender stems by limiting light exposure.

Soil management is a key theme. While some gardeners use traditional digging, others suggest using cardboard to smother weeds and protect soil structure. For tomatoes, gardeners are cautioned against adding old plants to home compost, as domestic temperatures often fail to kill pathogens like downy mildew, which can then infect future crops. Additionally, irregular watering is a primary cause of tomato skin cracking.

Other seasonal tips include using diluted mozzarella water (whey) as a nutrient boost or to combat powdery mildew, and performing semi-hardwood cuttings for rosemary and lavender between mid-August and late September to encourage root development.