Light up the winter garden with the fabulous foliage of heucheras. They’re happy in full sun to full shade and come in a range of colours, including purple, red, lime-green and highly patterned forms too.
Heavy rains and foot traffic can cause soil to compact but flood waters cause more severe compaction, says horticulturist Kate Wall (BSc). “The deeper the water and the longer the soil is under water, the more compaction will occur.” Improve the soil by adding organic matter like homemade compost, organic mulch, and emulsions rich in microbes, like Gogo Juice.
It’s a good time to get beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, onion, parsnip, and peas into the garden.
Take hardwood cuttings of your favourite roses, hydrangeas, and other deciduous shrubs. Dip the ends of the cuttings into hormone rooting and plant into a well-drained mix. Position in a warm spot and water regularly.
Dahlias have performed well over the warmer months. If winters are traditionally wet in your area, it’s best to lift the tubers and store until spring. Cover with dirt or sawdust to prevent them from drying out.
When pruning large branches, use a pruning saw to saw through the underside of the branch first, before cutting and working your way from above. This helps create a nice, clean cut and will reduce the likelihood of pests and diseases.
Fill bare patches of soil with winter-flowering annuals, like polyanthus and primulas. They will brighten the garden and stop weeds from invading too. Alternatively, cover with an organic mulch