He’s a magnificent broadcaster, gifted gardener, brilliant author and all-round horticultural visionary. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about small changes that can make a big difference in your garden this summer.

There is something about an English summer garden that stirs the soul. The scent of lavender drifting on a warm breeze, the hum of bees busy among the foxgloves, the gentle dapple of shade beneath a spreading apple tree.

Yet while we might dream of languid afternoons sipping something cool on the patio, summer gardening requires a little forethought if we’re to enjoy it at its best. So allow me to share a few well-worn secrets to help you make the most of your garden in the warmer months.

First, let’s talk water. A garden in high summer is a thirsty thing but resist the urge to give your plants a daily sprinkle. Shallow watering encourages shallow roots, leaving plants more vulnerable to dry spells. Instead, water deeply and less frequently – early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun isn’t blazing. And if you’ve got a potted collection, don’t let them bake on a sun-drenched patio. Cluster them together to create a mini microclimate, reducing moisture loss.

Shade, of course, is essential, and not just for plants…  but people too! If you don’t have a pergola dripping in wisteria or a mature tree under which to take refuge, a simple solution is a well-placed parasol. Yet think beyond the usual spots – how about positioning a bench where the evening sun casts its longest shadows… something so subtle can make a lot of difference to your enjoyment.

Now, onto that most persistent of summer foes: insects. Midges and mosquitoes can turn an idyllic evening into a frantic flailing of arms, but nature has its own defences. Pots of lemon-scented geraniums, basil and lavender placed around your seating area can work wonders at keeping the pests at bay. And if wasps are a nuisance, try leaving a small dish of overripe fruit away from your dining spot - better they feast there than hover around your glass of Pimm’s!

Finally, you have the glory of the barbecue. Be smart and plant rosemary, thyme and other herbs close to the grill for easy seasoning when cooking, and a wonderful release of aroma the rest of the time.

Ultimately, gardening should never feel like a chore. A little planning and a few clever tricks will allow you to enjoy your garden just as much as the bees and butterflies do. After all, isn’t that what summer is for?