As winter sets in, many gardeners may assume it’s time to hang up their gloves and wait for spring. However, there’s still plenty to do in the garden during the cooler months, especially in Gisborne, New Zealand’s mild climate. Here are some winter gardening jobs to keep you busy and ensure your garden stays healthy and thriving:

1. Pruning: Winter is an ideal time to prune deciduous trees, shrubs, and fruit trees while they’re dormant. Remove dead or diseased branches, shape plants for better structure, and promote healthy growth in the coming seasons.
2. Weeding: Don’t let weeds take over your garden beds during winter. Take advantage of milder days to tackle any weeds that have popped up, preventing them from spreading and competing with your plants for nutrients.
3. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to garden beds to help insulate plant roots, retain moisture, and suppress weed growth. Use organic materials such as compost, straw, or bark chips to nourish the soil and protect plants from winter chill.
4. Soil Preparation: Take the opportunity to improve soil structure and fertility by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to garden beds. Dig in amendments to enrich the soil and prepare it for planting when spring arrives.
5. Planning and Design: Use the quieter months of winter to plan and design your garden for the upcoming year. Research plant varieties, sketch out new garden layouts, and create a planting schedule to ensure a successful growing season ahead.

Remember, if you’re unsure about any winter gardening tasks or need expert advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Silver Fox Gardens. Our team of experienced gardeners is here to help you navigate the winter months and keep your garden thriving year-round. Reach out to us for personalized advice and guidance tailored to your garden’s needs.

Happy gardening!