We’ve reached the mid-point of the season and it’s time for staff performance reviews. But we don’t just review Uppark’s garden team at this time of year, we also carry out a plant performance appraisal to ensure that each is playing its part.

We gardeners are often critical of our own work, as are many others in the pursuit of perfection. But the garden is a living thing which constantly evolves and grows, so there are always improvements that can be made.

In July, the garden has reached a plateau and frenetic spring activity has given way to a more relaxed pace of growth. There is still much to do: weeds are plentiful (some are quite magnificent), but jobs can be carried out in a more controlled way. We no longer need to run around with the lawn mower in an attempt to stop the grass getting too long. The madness of May and June is over and it is time for a moment of reflection.

At this time of year, I recommend looking for variations in plant height which might offend the eye and spoil the balance of the planting scheme. Review plant combinations too, as what worked in spring or last season could now look untidy, tired and in need of rejuvenation. Make a note of low points, mark the spot and take photographs as reminders when planning for next season.

Ask friends if they have suitable plants you can propagate from or, if the soil is not too dry, plant some late season colour. Get out your pen, notepad, plant labels and a camera, and hope for a dry day!

If you’re looking for inspiration or a bit of horticultural advice, drop by the gardens to see what we’re up to. We’ve got some lovely gardening events coming up too: see the beautiful rooms in the mansion decorated with flowers and foliage from our garden during the Grand Tour Flower Show (July 7 to 11, 12.30 to 4.30pm) or enjoy an exclusive evening guided tour of the garden by me (July 17, 6.30 to 10pm, £30). Call 01730 825 415, option two, to book.

  • Visit Andy Lewis’s blog at upparkgarden.wordpress.com
  • Uppark House and Garden, South Harting, Petersfield, West Sussex, GU31 5QR, Tel: 01730 825857, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark
  • House, garden, shop and restaurant open every day except Fri and Sat from Mar 17 to Dec 22 (excluding Nov 4 to 16)