5 Winter Gardening Tips

1. Prune Native Shrubs and Trees

Winter is the ideal time to prune your native shrubs and trees. Trim back overgrown branches and remove any dead or diseased wood to encourage healthy growth in the spring.

2. Plant Winter-Blooming Natives

Take advantage of the cooler weather to plant winter-blooming native species such as Philotheca, Grevillea, Banksia, and Paper daisies. These plants not only add colour to your garden but also provide nectar for birds and pollinators.

3. Mulch and mulch and mulch

Use mulch from  your pruned materials such as leaf litter, bark, and wood chips to protect your garden beds. Sugar cane is another great mulch to use. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil, creating a healthy environment for your  plants.

4. Monitor for Pests

Keep an eye out for pests that might affect your native plants, such as caterpillars or scale insects. Beneficial insects like ladybugs and native birds can help keep pest populations in check naturally. Don’t be tempted to spray!

5. Prepare for Spring Planting

Use the winter months to plan for spring. Consider adding more native plants to your garden to support local biodiversity. Organize your tools, visit Forest Heart ecoNursery and plan your planting schedule to create a thriving garden in the upcoming season.