Monty Don warns gardeners to do one task after cutting grass in preparation for next year

As gardening enthusiasts prepare to maintain their outdoor spaces this summer, renowned gardening expert Monty Don has issued a crucial reminder that could significantly impact next year's floral displays. 

His advice centres around the careful timing of cutting long grass to ensure optimal conditions for spring-flowering bulbs and wildflower meadows.

Monty Don, well-known for his expertise and practical gardening tips, said timing is important when it comes to maintaining wildflower meadows and preserving bulb displays. 

He advised: "All Spring-flowering bulbs should have completely died back so that long grass can be cut without affecting their display next year."

At his garden, Longmeadow, Don and his team typically wait until August to undertake this task. This delay allows sufficient time for wildflowers to set seed, ensuring their propagation for the following year. 

By the end of July, most wildflower meadows can safely undergo cutting, provided all necessary precautions are taken.

"The critical step is to remove all the grass, raking up every last piece to compost," Don added. 

This meticulous approach prevents grass from enriching the soil excessively, which could potentially stifle the growth of next year’s wildflowers. 

Properly composting the grass ensures that nutrients are recycled effectively, benefiting the soil without compromising the floral diversity and vibrancy.

Spring-flowering bulbs, such as daffodils and tulips, rely on a careful balance of nutrient availability and seasonal growth cycles. 

Incorrect timing or inadequate preparation could diminish their blooming potential in subsequent years, affecting the overall aesthetic and biodiversity of gardens and meadows.