Bermuda gardens are at their best in June, the best month for luxuriant blossoms on ours trees, shrubs and plants. Royal poincianas with their cascades of fiery flowers are particularly noticeable but so are other trees, such as the golden and pink shower trees.

To Pick:

  • Daylilies
  • At this time of year, daylilies are in full bloom, adding vibrant colour to many a Bermuda garden. As their name suggests, they bloom for just one day. However, they can still be great for arrangements, adding new meaning to a “day of beauty.” For longer lasting arrangements, cut flowers in morning or evening. Choose stems with buds, as well as flowers. After picking, diagonally cut 1 inch off the bottom of each stem and place flowers in a vase of water. Add flower food according to the instructions on the packet.
  • Agapanthus or Lily of the Nile
  • These long stemmed flower clusters, in whites, blues and purples, are a sure sign summer is here as they thrive in sun and are favourites for planters in the City of Hamilton. But they are great for flower arrangements, too. One head of blossom placed in a glass vase is simple but effective. NB Wear gloves when cutting and arranging the stems since the plant’s sap is toxic.
  • Peaches
  • If you’re lucky enough to have a peach tree in your garden, now is the time to eat the fruit. What can be more delicious than a locally grown peach and vanilla ice cream?

To Plant:

  • Cucumbers
  • Cucumbers offer summer cool in salads, sandwiches and cold soups.
  • Plant seeds one inch deep in drained rich soil. Space seedlings of vining cucumbers growing on the ground 3 to 4 feet apart and of bush cucumbers 2 to 3 feet apart. Regularly water plants at their bases and keep leaves dry to prevent mildew.
  • Cosmos
  • These colourful, beautiful annuals love the sun and thrive even in poor soil. They can grow up to six feet tall and are therefore great to pick as well as view in the garden. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and thin to 12 -18 inches apart. NB They take about 7 weeks to germinate so for quick results, buy seedlings.
  • Coreopsis
  • Also known as calliopsis or tickseed, these bright yellow annuals with velvet brown centres are perfect for Bermuda’s summers because they don’t like too much water. Grow directly from seed. They self-seed and can be propagated by clump division in the spring.