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Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum) © Ita McCobb
Decorative Dahlias © Ita McCobb
Shasta Daisy (Chrysanthemum maximum) & Hollyhock (Alcea) © Ita McCobb
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum) © Ita McCobb

In Nature this month
In the Garden this month

August is the best month to see native Heather species in flower with moors and heathland turning shades of purple and pink. The three principle species are Common heather also known as Ling (Calluna vulgaris), Bell heather (Erica cinerea) and Cross-leaved heath (Erica tetralix).

Berries

Berries will now be ripening everywhere. Look out for the those of the commonly called Wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana), known as such as it can be found growing close to lanes and paths and can be a good indicator of ancient byways. The berries turn first red and then black when ripe.

Wild Flowers

Wild flowers to spot in August include the pink flowers of Musk mallow (Malva moschata), Wild marjoram (Origanum vulgare) and Hemp agrimony (Eupatorium cannabinum), whose leaves look like Hemp, hence its common name.

Prune Wisteria

If not already done so now is the time to Summer prune Wisteria that will have put on a lot of growth. Cut back the new whippy shoots to control the size of the plant and stimulate it to produce new flower buds.

Tomato plants

It is a good idea to thin leaves and pinch out any top growth on tomato plants so energy will go into the development of fruit. Removing leaves will help air to circulate and prevent disease. Water and feed regularly with a high potash tomato fertiliser.