Spring may seem like it’s a lifetime away during these cold days, but now is the perfect time to start preparing your garden for warmer weather.
Jason Hodges, garden expert and former Better Homes & Gardens host, says if you start on your garden now it will be healthy and strong for spring.
“Working in the garden during the cooler months is ideal as it’s not too hot, so you can work for longer and accomplish more,” he says.
“And there’s nothing better than being able to step back come spring and marvel at your handiwork!”
Here are Hodges’ top tips for preparing your garden to ensure your outdoor space is a thriving green paradise in no time:
- To help your soil reach optimum levels come spring, fertilise anywhere between every six weeks and every three months for ultimate growth. “The best choice for fast results in the garden is liquid fertiliser as it’s quick acting, allowing the plant to absorb both the micro and macro nutrients through the foliage quicker than any other fertiliser,” says Jason. “The result being plants grow bigger, stronger and less prone to disease and pests. It also keeps them healthy during winter, thriving in spring and surviving through a hot summer.” Hodges recommends Charlie Carp, an organic-based liquid fish fertiliser which he says is perfect for any garden or lawn type.
- Mulch, mulch, mulch! Mulch insulates soil and acts as a buffer from cold temperatures. It also helps to retain water and keep roots moist.
- Remove any damaged branches that you can see on your deciduous trees.
- Prune your trees and bushes so they have the best chance to bloom in spring.
- Pick up fallen leaves regularly so your lawn gets as much sun as possible.
- Winter is a great time to start a herb garden. Herbs such as rosemary, thyme, basil and lemongrass are hardy and very easy to grow, whether you have a balcony apartment, quarter acre or acreage. Start with herbs and then add vegetables.
