Start a compost bin (or worm farm) to turn fallen leaves and kitchen scraps into valuable organics for your garden. Variety is the key to success: layer ‘greens’ (kitchen scraps, lawn and garden clippings) with ‘browns’ (fallen leaves, straw, newspaper and cardboard) and combine well. Adding a sprinkle of organic pelletised manure introduces beneficial microbes to the mix. These microbes help accelerate the decomposition process.
Low-growing, mound-forming banksias such as ‘Cherry Candles’, ‘Birthday Candles’ and ‘Honey Pots’ will ensure a supply of nectar for native birds throughout winter. Good for planting now.
Prepare garden beds for winter roses. Dig in plenty of compost or manure, lime, blood and bone and pelletised manure, and fork it over well before planting bare-rooted roses.
Move cymbidiums into a sunny spot and start a monthly fertiliser program to produce flowering spikes in September.
Rocket rockets to seed in hot weather, but grows steadily through the cooler months, for a spicy addition to salads, and pesto. Sow it where you want it to grow, scattering a seed-raising mix lightly over the seed and watering well.
Remodel the garden this month by shifting plants that are not in the right position. Ready plants for transplant by first digging around the drip line. Prepare the new position before moving the plant. Remember this simple rule - the larger the root ball, the more successful the move.