21.06.2023

Show up for your garden in winter and it will thank you in spring

How to keep your garden surviving and thriving throughout winter

Gardena Robotic Lawnmower Sileno Life 750

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It is easy to ‘forget’ about your garden during winter because, let’s face it, who wants to be out in the freezing cold getting their hands dirty? Then again, who doesn’t want a colourful, flourishing garden filled with the scent of blossoms in spring? Winter is here, but don’t hang all your gardening tools just yet.

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In South Africa, we have relatively mild winters. We are fortunate to enjoy the occasional clear, sunny days which make it easier to do the necessary winter gardening. There are four basic things that gardens need to survive and thrive and flourish by the time you host your first spring tea party: some sunshine, some water, good soil and fertiliser.

Sun-kissing

In winter, some plants might need a little help to get enough sunshine. Your indoor plants may be well placed during summer but might not be getting enough light from the weaker winter sun. The best thing to do is to take them outside for some regular sun-kissing. You may also need to move around your potted outdoor plants on verandahs or balconies. Their usual spot may be more shady during the winter when the sun falls differently. Plants out in the garden are better exposed but do keep an eye on any shady spots. If the plants there are struggling you will have to replant them when the season changes.

Soil it up

Winter can take its toll on the soil. Did you know that spreading mulch in your garden can protect the soil from wind, cold or frost? Mulch prevents soil erosion and soil compaction caused by rain, and is a good insulator that keeps the soil warm during winter. It is good practice to mulch your garden twice a year. Consider this your garden’s love language!

Fertilise the soil

Contrary to some popular belief, fertilising your garden in winter isn’t bad. Fertliser provides the nutrients plants need to strengthen their roots during winter dormancy. However, in very cold areas where the top layer of soil undergoes some freezing, you should wait for a warmer day when the soil is thawed. A frozen layer can’t absorb the fertiliser so your hard work will be all for naught. GARDENA has a wide range of fertiliser spreaders that make the task easy. Choose between the Small Caster, the Hand-Spreader (medium), the Spreader L and the Spreader XL according to the size of your garden.

Water for the ultimate GLOW UP in spring

Winter gardens don’t need as much water as summer gardens. We give the garden just enough water for a lively return in spring. Gardeners should work backwards from summer water requirements. Plants that need lots of water in summer should be watered two to three times every two weeks in winter. Moderate water-use plants need to be watered once a month in winter and low water-use plants only need their thirst quenched once every two months in winter.

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About GARDENA
For over 50 years GARDENA has provided everything passionate gardeners need. The broad assortment of products offers innovative solutions and systems for watering, lawn care, tree and shrub care and soil cultivation. Today, GARDENA is a leading European supplier of high-quality gardening tools and distributed in more than 100 countries worldwide. GARDENA is a brand of Husqvarna Group. Further information on gardena.com.

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