Bed in for cold
A busy month in the garden with many tasks to be completed before the onset of winter
Rose care
Late blooming roses such as iceberg will still be flowering freely, while most bush and climbing roses are in their last month of flowering. Collect all fallen leaves to reduce next season’s infection of rust and black spot. Mulch with fresh compost.
Fruit trees
The last of the apples, such as granny smith, can now be harvested. All pip and stone fruit trees will benefit from a late autumn fungicide spray of a copper compound. This is especially important for peach and nectarine trees. Delay pruning until all the leaves have fallen, to allow for a better overview of a tree’s framework. Both feijoas and kiwifruit can be harvested in April. Let feijoas mature on the plant and fall to the ground where they can be collected.
Lawns
Time to renovate existing lawns or sow new ones (early April). As with many aspects of horticulture, preparation is critical for success in developing a new lawn. When importing new soil, where possible, ensure it is weed free. Sow generous amounts of grass seed and maintain moisture levels on the germinating seed. With existing lawns, apply lawn fertiliser to promote strong, healthy growth.
Container gardens
Containers are useful for providing colour and interest over the winter months. Flowering annuals thrive in containers and brighten decks and entrances. Winter vegetables such as lettuce, spring onions and spinach can also be grown in reasonable sized containers. Always use fresh container mix when planting a new crop.
House plant care
When choosing new house plants, consider the shape, habit, texture and colouring of your new plants. Other important factors are the temperature, humidity, and light in a home over winter months. Remember, days are shorter in winter and some plants may need to be shifted closer to windows. Watering can be reduced in the cooler months using lukewarm water. Stop fertiliser applications as it is only beneficial during periods of active growth (early spring to early autumn).
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