Gardening writer JACKIE WARBURTON has some tips for getting ready for winter in the garden.
As the warm soils begin to cool, it’s crucial to plant the last winter flowering plants in the upcoming weeks.
Timing is vital; if you plant too late in cold soil, your plants may struggle to grow during winter and could bolt to seed come spring.
However, if they establish themselves before the cold settles in, they’ll thrive throughout the winter months, providing essential color to your garden.
Recommended for winter
- Flowers: Pansies, poppies, primulas, and polyanthus
- Herbs: Parsley, spinach, and lettuce
THIS past hot summer offers us an opportunity to prepare our gardens for next season.
Implementing moisture-retaining techniques can make a significant difference.
Understanding the slope and contours of your garden helps capture water and slow runoff.
Water harvesting tips
- Swales: These can be effective even in small backyards. They slow down water flow, allowing it to soak into the ground instead of running off.
- Berms and swales: Even a slight grade of five per cent can help retain water, fostering a healthier garden and reducing future erosion.
THIS year, I’ve successfully grown Banjo Pumpkins along a Colorbond fence. I sourced my seedlings from the Canberra Organic Growers Open Day last spring.
This new variety, a cross between Iron Bark and Buttercup, features deep orange flesh, dark green skin, and excellent storage capabilities.
Pumpkin-growing tips
- Water the stem, not the leaves, to prevent fungal issues.
- Use cardboard or dry mulch under the pumpkins to keep them off the soil.
- Wait for the first frost to strengthen the skin before harvesting; cut the stem, leaving an inch or two attached.
- Store pumpkins in a dark, dry place, rotating them monthly for air circulation.
LASTLY, the popularity of salvias continues to rise, particularly the compact varieties that thrive in small spaces.
My top pick this season is Salvia Salvator Blue (Salvia nemorosa), which flourishes in full sun and blooms from spring through autumn. Taking cuttings now can also help propagate these resilient perennials.
Jottings
- Deadhead roses and dahlia for repeat blooming.
- Prune the last of the stonefruit and spray with copper.
- Get compost bins ready for autumn leaves.
- Sprinkle dolomite lime on asparagus.
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