Much of the work in the vegetable garden during summer, relates to the control of weeds and the provision of water. Remember that it is best to give the garden a good soaking 2-3 times a week, rather than watering every day. If only the top surface receives water the plant's roots will come up to find it and then be burned by the hot sun.

 Peas are not worth sowing during December - February unless shade is available  but additional crops of Sweetcorn, Carrots, Beetroot and Beans are all worth sowing at 4-6 week intervals through summer.

 Plant the likes ofcauliflower, Broccoli, and cabbages in Mid March while the soil is still warm but Brussel Sprouts should be planted a month earlier.

Apply Slug bait. Watch for the White butterflies and take action by applying vegetable dust or spraying with Mavrik which is very safe when used as directed. There is also a product containing the bacterium Bacillus theringiensis that kills caterpillars when applied as a spray.

Apply Mulch & fertiliser to Strawberry beds and Rhubarb