Even though your garden might look a little sleepy right now, there's plenty you can do over winter to wake it up come spring. By taking some proactive steps, you'll be setting yourself up for a bountiful and beautiful season. Here's how to give your garden some TLC over the colder months:
Clean Up and Clear Out:
- Tidy Up: Remove dead leaves, debris, and spent plants. This not only makes your garden look neater, but it also helps prevent the spread of diseases and pests. You can add some of the organic matter to your compost pile for a nutrient boost later.
- Weed Warfare: Winter weeds can steal valuable nutrients from the soil. Take advantage of the softer ground and pull up any unwelcome visitors. We feed our non toxic weeds to the chooks but you could try making a weed tea and bottle it for a boost in spring.
Pruning Power:
- Shrub Shape-Up: Prune summer-flowering shrubs and trees while they're dormant. This will encourage bushier growth and better flowering in spring.
- Out with the Old: Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to improve air circulation and prevent the spread of problems.
Soil Savvy:
- Test and Amend: Knowing your soil's health is key to a thriving garden. Conduct a soil test to determine its pH and nutrient levels. You can then add amendments like compost, manure, or lime to improve its fertility.
- Mulch it Up: Apply a fresh layer of mulch around your plants (after the ground freezes). Mulch helps suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature – all beneficial for spring growth.
Planning for Spring:
- Seed Shopping Spree: This is one of my favorite past times! While you're cozied up indoors, get a head start on spring by ordering seeds or browsing seed catalogs. Choose varieties that suit your climate and planting zone. If you are on a tight budget look through your seeds and organize I guarantee you will find ones you forgot about!
- Sketch it Out: Take some time to plan your garden layout. Consider companion planting to maximize space and deter pests.
If you have tender plants that need winter protection, cover them with frost cloth or burlap to shield them from harsh winds and frosts.
By following these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to a flourishing spring garden. So grab your gloves, a cup of tea, and get ready to transform your winter garden into a spring haven!