malvernmugadzikwa
Andrew Mangwarara
AS you leave the sprawling city of Kwekwe, you will get to a new fuel establishment, the KGK Energy Service Station, which is causing a stir along Bulawayo Road.
Its modern landscaping, featuring island plant rockeries, is the centre of attraction.
A colourful play centre is set aside for children’s enjoyment. The service station offers both takeaway and sit-in meals, in addition to refuelling options for all vehicles.
The place reminds one that it is summer, which brings us to this week’s topic. Now that it is summer, there are several activities you can include in your routine maintenance.
In summer, you need to avoid overwatering your plants. You achieve this by watering them in the morning or evening. Water them when they start to wilt to encourage deep rooting.
Remove dry flowers, a process known as deadheading. This will keep flowers healthy and blooming for longer periods. However, let some flowers mature to seeds for future plantings.
Limit digging in summer as this damages the soil structure, increases moisture loss and disturbs plant roots. Sometimes allow your lawn to grow a bit longer to encourage biodiversity, attracting birds and insects. Summer is a great time to take cuttings and plant stored seeds to rejuvenate your garden.
At this time of the year, it is also advisable to add manure or fertiliser to your garden since there is plenty of water to avoid burning by overexposure to plants. Regularly prune plants and hedges to control their growth and shape.
Likewise, stay ahead of weeds by weeding early or using herbicides. Also keep a watchful eye for pests and take action early to prevent infestations.
If you would like to be featured in our green-up campaign, contact us on the number above. Feedback: [email protected] or sundaymail @zimpapers.co.zw
Online Reporter