Instead of working in their gardens during summer, many people prefer to relax in them. Others go away for a lovely long holiday, leaving their gardens unattended for weeks. If this sounds like you and you’re wanting your plants to look good over the warmer months, here’s what you need to know.
1 MULCH IT
Mulching is beneficial in so many ways. It helps keep moisture in the soil, reducing the amount of watering you’ll need to do. It keeps the roots of trees and shrubs cool, imperative for survival in hot weather. It also reduces weeds by not allowing light through to germinate seeds and any that do germinate in the mulch are much easier to pull out. Organic mulches such as garden clippings, bark, untreated sawdust and pea straw are great multitaskers as they eventually break down, improving soil texture as well as doing all of the above. Use them for areas such as vegetable gardens and beds where there is a lot of leaf drop.
2 FEED IT
A good feed in early summer will help keep plants thriving all through the hot months. If you haven’t already done so, it’s not too late! Feeding your garden well will help keep it healthy during its peak growing period so that it can resist pests and diseases.
3 WATER LESS
This story is from the December 28, 2020 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 28, 2020 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The butt OF JOKES
Kevin wasn't so keen on wife Linda’s reaction to his medical emergency!
A space to CALL HOME
Michele reflects on finding your safe place
Gut REACTION
Want to live a healthier, happier life? Experts think the bacteria in your belly could be the secret to living well
Right as ROTI
This delicate Malaysian-style flatbread can be quickly prepared in a frying pan. Enjoy on its own or paired with a curry or soup
LAURA'S BACKYARD DRAMA
The theatre star’s taking The Bard's work to a familiar venue
PAULA & BREE'S SPECIAL BOND
The director admits her leading lady does a bett er job of being her than she does!
KEEPING UP WITH DUSKIE
With a special limb to fast-track her progress, there’s no stopping her now!
MKR SISTERS' KITCHEN CRED
Their taste buds are stronger than most, thanks to wacky childhood creations
'I COULDN'T TELL A SOUL'
In a top-secret mission, the TV star’s uncovered how Pippa took on the Nazis
HOW THEY PLAN TO WIN BACK FANS
The couple’s polo date is just the start of more fun and games