Rose tip
“Repeat flowering roses need to be pruned in winter and to do this you need a good pair of sharp secateurs, a pair of good thorn proof gloves or gauntlets, and maybe a pair of loppers or a good pruning saw. The reason we prune is to assist the rose’s natural process of flowering on strong healthy new wood, by removing the dead and old wood and encouraging new growth.”
“For bushy roses I simply use the 50/50 method, reducing the height of the rose by 50% and removing 50% of the canes at their base, starting with old wood, and any weak spindly stems or crossing branches.”
Fruit tree planting tip
“Take advantage of bare root season over winter to purchase new seasons stock of deciduous fruit trees that are more affordable, easier to handle and establish better in your garden. This means you can purchase several fruit trees for the same cost as one mature specimen.”
“Follow the instructions on the label or bag, and prune the bare rooted specimens back at the time of planting even though you mightn’t want to, as this ensures the tree develops optimal plant structure and ultimately fruits successfully for years to come. Check the pollination requirements of your new fruit tree in case two trees are required.”
Winter vege tip
“When space is limited, look at vegetables which can be harvested over a longer period. These cut and come again varieties include peas, loose leaf lettuces, spinach, silver beet, kale and broccoli (especially sprouting varieties).”
“While cauliflower and cabbages are delicious, just remember you will have quite a wait until they are ready and you only get one harvest from each plant.”
Winter flowering colour tip
“As the weather cools down, growth of annuals from punnets also slows, so use larger seedlings or potted colour for an instant show. Plant up some large pots and place them as focal points, by entrances or along pathways to add instant cheer and delight. Feed them regularly with liquid fertilisers and seaweed based plant tonics.”
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