Gardener Ekaterina Rassadina told the newspaper Vecherniaya Moskva that strawberries and tomatoes require special attention in August.
Rassadina said strawberries have already finished fruiting but are now forming the flower buds that will produce next season's berries. She said nitrogen feeding should be stopped and replaced with phosphorus and potassium, which help the plant grow stronger and prepare for winter.
Tomato pruning advice
Rassadina also said gardeners should pinch off the tops of tomato plants in August. She said this lets the bush direct its energy toward the tomatoes already growing on it. She added that the lower leaves should also be removed, since this improves airflow around the bush and lowers the risk of blight.
Gardeners were previously told how to protect zucchini and eggplants from summer cold snaps.
