Four essential June gardening jobs every UK gardener should do

June boasts the longest day of the year, and the additional light and warmth throughout the month encourages a growth spurt in the garden . It heralds some of the earliest harvests from the vegetable patch, alongside flowers in full bloom. According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), there's also a great deal to be getting on with this month. This encompasses watering wisely, pinching out tomato side shoots, and keeping weeds under control . Gardeners may also discover their new potatoes and salad crops are ready for picking this month. The RHS said: "Choose vibrant bedding plants for a summer show of herbs, shrubs and evergreens for a long-lasting display." Hanging baskets and container plants dry out considerably faster than bedding plants, so it's essential to stay on top of watering to prevent them from drying out. Summer baskets also benefit from occasional feeding with a liquid fertiliser, and gardeners should deadhead regularly. The RHS said: "Watering is key to growing plants well, and it's important to look at how to get it right. If you haven't already got a water butt, installing one is a great way to help the environment." The experts advised watering early in the morning, calling it the "best time". This is due to reduced evaporation, allowing plants to absorb the water throughout the day. Watering in the evening is acceptable, but damp foliage overnight can attract pests and encourage fungal diseases. The RHS explained: "Removing the sideshoots is simple – every time you water, check the plant for any shoots in the joint between the leaf and the stem." Taking these off encourages the plant to channel its energy into the main fruit, resulting in larger, more succulent tomatoes for gardeners. According to the RHS, garden weeds can be managed without resorting to chemicals by hoeing off seedlings, pulling or forking them out, or employing a weeding tool. For large, well-established weeds, a spade or border fork should be used to dig them out. If weeds emerge on the lawn, regular mowing will take care of them, as they'll be caught by the mower blades.