A living
botanical
diary

Roses in July: how to trim faded inflorescences and stimulate a second bloom

The first flush is fading — and what you do now determines whether your roses bloom again. Here's how and where to cut in July to get a second wave by September.

Pinching and desuckering: what it is, why it matters and how to do it right

Desuckering is one of the most important techniques for tomatoes, peppers and grapevines. We explain what a sucker is, why removing it helps, and how to do it correctly without harming the plant.

Ragweed, goosefoot, mugwort: the weeds behind summer allergies

Four of the most aggressive weed allergens blooming right now — what they look like, where they grow, and why they're so hard to avoid.

What to do in the garden in July — a week-by-week plan

July brings both abundant harvests and real heat challenges to the garden. A week-by-week plan for the whole month — so you don't miss a thing.