Down to Earth: Why June is cue to enjoy the garden – flowers, flaws and all

“Whether it’s a morning coffee spot or an evening hideaway, these quiet corners drastically change the garden experience. . .” As borders hit their summer stride, June is cue to sit back and (try to) relax, writes Cambridge designer Robert Barker

June is an interesting month for both gardeners and garden designers. If your garden has been carefully maintained or thoughtfully designed, this is when it truly shines.

Provided you have a good collection of herbaceous and evergreen plants, all the effort you invested last autumn or earlier in the year should now be paying off. In theory, aside from mowing the lawn and tackling the occasional weed, this is the time to relax and enjoy the rewards of your hard work.

That said, I know many garden enthusiasts struggle with the idea of simply sitting back. Personally, if I pause too long in the garden, a wave of guilt washes over me, as if I should be doing something productive and be busy for busy’s sake - which is a modern-day common disease.

Why is it that so many of us find it difficult to stop and appreciate what we've created? Is it perfectionism driving us to focus on the smallest flaws? Or perhaps it's the joy and comfort we find in the act of gardening itself?

Whatever the reason, I encourage you to resist the urge to keep working and instead take a moment to reflect. Sit back, look at whatever green space you have, and take stock.

Yes, there will be imperfections, there always are, but these are almost certainly outweighed by what you've achieved. And if you do spot areas for improvement, make a few notes now so you can pick things up again in autumn, after the stress of summer has passed for both plants and people alike.

If you are thinking about redesigning your garden, then my advice would be to take time to observe how the space is used. Are there sunny corners calling out for a bench? Don’t forget to include space to pause. A simple seating area framed by planting can turn a functional space into a sanctuary. Whether it’s a morning coffee spot or an evening hideaway, these quiet corners drastically change the garden experience.

With planting, June is all about layering texture and colour. Geraniums spill over borders, nepeta hums with bees, and tall spires of foxgloves and delphiniums punctuate the view. Lavender, with its silvery foliage and scented blooms, adds both aesthetic appeal and sensory charm.

Although not one of my favorites, June is also peak season for roses, whether trained over arches, climbing trellises, or massed in borders, they bring a timeless elegance to any garden.

So, this month, pour yourself a mug or glass of your favourite drink, head out into the garden, and soak in the sights, sounds and scents.

See robertbarkerdesign.com for more.