August with the RHS
August is usually one of the hottest months of the year, so make sure you keep watering the garden, or all your hard work will be wasted. Try to use grey water (from baths, washing up and so on) wherever possible, especially as water butts may be running low. August is traditionally holiday-time, so remember to enlist the help of friends and family to look after the garden while you are away, or consider investing in a watering system. Water wisely!
Video tips on how to cope with summer’s changeable weather
Sow-your-own manure!
Sow green manures such as crimson clover and Italian ryegrass to act as a soil improver and to cover bare areas. When dug in, they conserve nutrients and improve soil texture.
Membership offer
Join the RHS from just £39
Enjoy free garden visits, personalised advice and discounted shows tickets
Lazy summer Sundays
Enjoy relaxing August Sundays at RHS Garden Harlow Carr, near Harrogate, Yorkshire, with some live music. On August 4, 11, 18 and 25, local brass or silver bands will be filling the beautiful gardens of Harlow Carr with the sound of music. Come along between 11am and 4pm to hear them, and enjoy the gardens at their late-summer finest.
Flavoursome Fridays
Come to the Orchard at RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey, and taste some of the delicious fruit and vegetables grown in the garden. Talk to the staff about growing fruit and vegetables; discuss any growing problems you may have at home; or get advice on plants that would suit your plot. Just look for the Fruit and Veg wagon at the entrance to the Orchard on Friday afternoons (1–3pm) in August, where members of staff can introduce you to the tasty flavours of Wisley-grown fruit and veg. It is sure to be there on sunny days, so weather permitting we hope to see you in the Orchard.
Listen to the latest RHS podcast
Listen to our latest podcast, where we offer seasonal information, you can hear tips on growing fruit and veg, and get up-to-the-minute help and advice.
Subscribe to RHS podcasts
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