Summer garden pest control guidance

In mid‑July, gardening specialist Peter Dowdall warned that mice become most active at the start of summer and advised homeowners to keep gardens clean, removing food, water and shelter to deter infestations. He also recommended deep watering in early morning or late afternoon for newly planted shrubs and trees.

By the end of July, a broader set of experts offered additional summer‑season pest‑control tips. Luke Newnes highlighted the need to eliminate standing water to curb mosquito breeding, while Chic Teak suggested morning watering, applying horticultural grit or crushed eggshells to deter slugs and snails, and fostering habitats for natural predators such as frogs, hedgehogs and birds. Advice on protecting bulbs and outdoor furniture from squirrels during their breeding season was also included.

Together, the advice underscores a seasonal focus on hygiene, water management and biological control to minimise a range of garden pests in summer.