As winter loosens its grip and the days get longer, your garden begins to stir. Tender shoots appear, soil warms up, and there is a promise in the air; summer is on its way. But before the sun turns fierce and water becomes precious, your garden needs a little preparation.

A well-prepared garden does not just survive summer; it grows through it. With a few thoughtful steps taken now, you can protect your plants from heat stress, conserve water, and enjoy a lush, productive green space even during peak temperatures.

Here is how to get started.

1. Start with a deep clean-up

Begin by removing dry leaves, dead stems, fallen branches, and any debris that may have accumulated over the cooler months. This prevents pests and fungal diseases from taking hold once humidity rises.

Prune away damaged or diseased growth. For flowering plants and shrubs, trim lightly to encourage healthy branching. However, avoid heavy pruning of trees just before peak summer, as foliage helps shield roots and soil from harsh sunlight.

Clear out weeds early because they compete aggressively for water and nutrients when temperatures rise.

2. Improve your soil before the heat sets in

Healthy soil is your garden’s best defence against summer stress.

Loosen compacted soil to improve aeration and root penetration. Mix in well-rotted compost or organic manure to........

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