Winter around the Garden

Don't let the cold keep you inside, there are so many chores we can be doing around the garden, even during wintertime. Basically, a gardener's work is never done!

It's time to grow winter crops and prepare the garden for spring.

• If you have citrus plants, fertilise them in late July using an all-purpose citrus fertiliser.
• Early August is the best time to prune roses, hydrangeas and wisteria, so long as you do not live in an area that receives frost.                               
• With rain comes weeds, so be sure you remove them before they mature and set seed.
• Sow veggies such as spinach, peas, onions and leeks.
• Start tomatoes from seed, choosing a warm spot such as a windowsill. Once the soil warms up they can be transported to the garden.
• Grow some fresh herbs, it's relatively easy and great to have them on hand.

We have a large range of Heirloom Vintage Seeds so choose your favourites, get them planted and enjoy the benefit of growing your own food!

Two shrubs that add a special touch to a winter garden are Daphne and Pieris.

Daphne is a beautiful perfumed shrub which is a definite winter favourite. Native to the hillsides of Japan and China, the tiny flowers and their delicate perfume means this evergreen is a must in the garden. Plant in a spot that receives morning sun and has protection from cold winter winds.

Pieris japonica is another lovely evergreen shrub which does well in cooler climates and loves a shady spot in a wooded garden. (Having said that, mine is growing just fine in a container on a balcony in the city).When in bloom, the shrub is almost completely covered with drooping clusters of small, bell-shaped, waxy, white flowers. The foliage takes up a lovely bronze tinge over winter.

 Happy winter gardening!