The last weeks of summer: at times oppressively hot and humid, at times cloudy and cool. For me, this is an exciting month, almost like a second spring – many plants wake up from their heat-induced slumber for another growth spurt as the late summer rains and warm air reinvigorate.

  • Often our plants come out the other end of December and January looking a little frazzled, but resist the urge to prune and tidy up until the risk of heatwaves has really died down – although some burnt leaves can be unsightly, they provide protection and shade for the inner parts of the plant. If one of your plants has really been battered during a 40-plus day, it’s worth considering whether it’s the right plant for that position – sometimes we have to be cruel to be kind to ourselves!
  • Think outside the box: a hedge is a pretty classic part of a garden design repertoire, but even so, it’s fair to say that the (literal) paddocks full of Buxus sempervirens pots waiting to be sold at our wholesale nurseries can be a little dispiriting. Why not consider some alternatives, like the hardy Elaeagnus, the classy Viburnum tinus, or natives like Westringia, or Callistemon? You can get creative with edible hedges too, like Feijoa, cumquats and bush tucker shrubs like Antidesma. Talk to a qualified horticulturalist if you’re not sure what species might be suitable in your garden.
  • Plant some winter veggies – turn over your garden beds first and incorporate some good quality compost into the upper layer, as the soil will be nice and warm and able to break down the organic matter quickly. Then it’s time for Brussels sprouts, cabbages, beans, kale – so much good stuff! Make sure to keep the small seedlings well watered if the weather remains hot, and spread a bit of light mulch like lucerne or sugar cane over the soil.

OUTHOUSE offers in-person consultations with qualified horticulturalists to help you get the most value out of your landscape. We can provide verbal advice, planting plans or a full landscape design. Get in touch with us to discuss your needs.

View past tips for February here!