[Nigel Bolton]

Although the dry spell has meant a lot of extra work with irrigation etc, there are some tasks which have become easier as a result.

Weeding. Turning over the soil and disturbing weeds, they will not re-root if the surface is bone dry.

Edging. Have found the shrinking of soil around walls, flags, pathways etc has allowed me to edge lawns and seed beds very efficiently.

Good time to clear the gutters. Sweep a masonry brush along the gutter along its fall. Will clear soil, seeds, old leaves in no time.

Turn the compost. Will let the moisture out and dry air in allowing more rapid decomposition of organic matter. The heap will shrink remarkably rapidly during a dry spell.

Excellent time to paint the shed. Wood preserver soaks in and dries very quickly. More expensive due to absorbtion, but a better job done once complete.

Be careful though, if you have a bonfire. Tinder dry garden refuse will burn very quickly, but watch the sparks!!!

N.

[Nigel Bolton]

Have just painted the shed. Cool enough in the sunshine to be comfortable. Wood very absorbant just now and preserver drying quickly in the dry air. Excellent if you need to apply two coats of preserver, and time is tight.

N.

[Nigel Bolton]

Too late in the year now to involve dry. Time to use the wet, for whatever reason.

N.