Late summer is a great time to tidy borders and encourage fresh growth.
Many perennials and shrubs are still producing new shoots, and a little attention now keeps displays going well into early autumn.
Roses: Remove faded blooms to encourage a second flush.
Dahlias: Regular deadheading keeps flowers coming until the first frost.
Geraniums: Pinch back old flowers to maintain compact, bushy growth.
Lavender: Lightly trim after flowering to prevent woody stems.
Summer‑flowering shrubs such as weigela and deutzia should be pruned straight after flowering so next year’s buds aren’t removed. When deadheading, cut back to the first strong leaf or bud to support healthy regrowth.