June is the month when the garden really wakes up — and most crops are finally ready to go into their final growing positions.

What to plant in June

• Brussels sprouts, cabbages, cauliflowers and celeriac can all be planted out now. They appreciate the longer days and steady warmth.
• Courgettes, cucumbers, French and runner beans are ready for their permanent homes — they’ll romp away once the soil is warm.
• Leeks can be planted out into their final trenches or holes.
• Pumpkins, squashes and sweetcorn can be planted out now; sweetcorn does best in blocks rather than rows for good pollination.
• Outdoor tomatoes can be planted into beds, growbags or large pots.
• Whatever you plant, water in carefully to settle the roots.
• Protect young plants from birds with netting — especially brassicas and sweetcorn.

(Netting is available in The Hut.)

What to do in June

• Keep weeds under control — they grow fast in warm weather and compete for water and nutrients.
• Continue removing tomato side shoots to keep plants tidy and encourage strong fruiting trusses.
• Train climbing beans up their supports and make sure peas are securely tied in or netted.
• Watch for pests and diseases — aphids, blackfly, mildew and caterpillars can all appear quickly this month. Early action makes a big difference.