1. Feed the birds
ALL BANKSIAS FLOWER IN WINTER, A GOOD FOOD SUPPLY FOR NATIVE BIRDS.
Low-mounding varieties like 'Cherry Candles' grow to around 50cm, forming a dense, compact shrub perfect for rockeries, small gardens or containers on the patio, veranda, or deck. They work beautifully in mass plantings for dramatic effect or in small groups. Easy to care for, 'Cherry Candles' produces decorative buds from late spring, with long-lasting, nectar-rich flowers from summer through early winter. These flowers attract birds and other wildlife. Frost-tolerant and adaptable to mild acid to alkaline soils, this banksia is also ideal for coastal gardens.
2. Start composting
DON’T WASTE THOSE FALLEN LEAVES!
A compost bin is the best way to recycle all your garden waste into rich steaming, life-giving compost. Layer kitchen scraps, garden prunings and lawn clippings with fallen leaves, shredded newspaper, cardboard and straw. A sprinkle of pelletised manure and blood and bone introduces beneficial organisms which help accelerate decomposition.
3. Colour your world
PANSIES ARE THE GO-TO FOR POTTED FLOWERS at this time of year – they love cool weather.
Their old-fashioned charm and delicate faces, make them the top choice for courtyards and balcony gardens. Colours range from soft pastels to strong single colours. Plant seedlings in a shallow, squat pot filled with good-quality potting mix, following the spacing on the label. Elevate the pot on pot feet to ensure good drainage, and place it in a spot with gentle morning sun.
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4. Encourage blooms
FOR BOUNTIFUL LATE WINTER AND SPRING FLOWERS,
cymbidium orchids need a sunny spot and a regular diet of orchid fertiliser. Bring them indoors when they come into flower. You will be amazed how long these exotic blooms last if you keep them away from indoor heating.
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5. Bring in bees and butterflies
CREATE A FLOWER-RICH GARDEN THAT SUPPORTS BEES AND OTHER POLLINATORS.
This new 'Bee Friendly Flower Mix' from Mr. Fothergill's is designed to grow a meadow-style display that draws bees and butterflies into your garden. The carefully selected varieties provide pollen and nectar essential for feeding young insects, supporting healthy populations and better pollination across your garden. The seed mix comes in a handy shaker pack, with seed blended with vermiculite, a natural mineral that retains moisture and supports strong seed germination. Choose a sunny spot. Remove existing vegetation, then rake the soil into a fine tilth. Water gently to moisten the surface. Sprinkle the seed evenly and lightly press in with a roller or your feet to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Water again using a fine mist.
6. Ready for rocket
COOL WEATHER CONDITIONS SUIT ROCKET (arugula).
It quickly runs to seed in hot weather. Sow the seed directly in your vegetable bed or in a large pot, for a spicy kick for winter salads.
7. Don’t forget – it's tulip time!
MOTHER'S DAY IS THE PERFECT REMINDER TO PLANT YOUR TULIPS.
Remove bulbs from the fridge and plant them in a sunny garden border or a pot. Late May to early June is ideal, as cooler soil temperatures help bulbs establish roots before sending up leaves and flowers. A pot of tulips at your front door makes a stunning welcome. Pack bulbs as closely as they’ll fit, set the pot on pot feet for good drainage and water carefully – too much moisture can cause rot.
8. Get a move on!
LATE AUTUMN IS A GOOD TIME TO TRANSPLANT ANY PLANT that’s in the wrong spot.
If it’s a tree, you can sprag the roots (sever some roots with a sharp spade), one year before you move it, to encourage new roots to grow in close to the trunk. This will help your tree establish in its new position, over winter. Come spring it will be ready to regrow.