8 Tips for Things to Do in Your Garden This Winter

Winter in our sunny corner of the world might be milder than other places, but it's still a season all of its own, and our gardens need a little TLC to adjust. Less sunshine and cooler temperatures mean different care for our favourite plants compared to the warmer months. Don't worry, though! We have 8 tips to help you make the most of your garden this winter:

1.Mulch it Up

Mulching is a fantastic way to protect your garden during the cooler months – it’s like a warm blanket for your plants. Applying a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw, bark, or sugar cane, helps to insulate the soil, retaining warmth and moisture. This not only keeps the roots of your plants warm but also reduces the risk of frost damage. Additionally, mulch breaks down over time, enriching the soil with valuable nutrients for your plants.

2. Time to Prune!

Winter is an ideal time for pruning many types of plants. Deciduous trees and shrubs, which have lost their leaves, are easier to shape and manage. Grab some clean, sharp tools and carefully snip away any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This will make room for healthy new growth come spring, and for fruit trees, it can even help them produce more delicious treats later on.

3. Plant Winter Vegetables

Don't let winter stop you from growing delicious home-grown veg. Take advantage of the cooler weather by planting winter vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, spinach, and kale. These hardy vegetables thrive in the cooler temperatures and can provide you with fresh produce throughout the winter months. Remember to prep your garden beds with some compost or organic matter before planting your seedlings for the best results.

4. Protect Tender Plants

Some plants are a bit more susceptible to cold temperatures and frost. Protect these tender plants by covering them with frost cloths or hessian sacks when overnight temperatures dip. If you have potted plants, consider moving them to more sheltered spots, such as under eaves or into a greenhouse. Bonus tip: bubble wrap or old blankets can add extra insulation for pots.

5. Water Wisely

While it's true that plants need less water during the winter, it's still important to keep an eye on soil moisture levels. Ideally, water your garden in the morning to allow the soil to absorb the water before the evening chill sets in. Don’t go overboard, though! Be mindful of overwatering, as too much moisture can lead to root rot. Adjust your watering schedule according to the specific needs of your plants and the local rainfall.

6. Soil Care

Winter is a great time to focus on improving your soil. Add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and prepare it for the growing season ahead. Aerating the soil with a garden fork can also help to improve drainage and encourage healthy root development. A healthy soil foundation means happy plants when spring arrives.

7. Plan and Design

Use the quieter winter months to plan and redesign your garden. Assess what worked well in the previous seasons and what didn’t. Consider adding new garden beds, pathways, or features like a water fountain or bird bath. Think about the color schemes, plant varieties, and layout that you want to achieve in the coming spring. Planning now saves you time and effort when the busy planting season arrives.

8. Welcome in Wildlife

Winter is a tough time for wildlife, so take steps to make your garden a haven for birds, insects, and other creatures. Make your garden a haven for wildlife by planting native flowering plants, leaving seed heads and berries on your plants, and putting out bird feeders and baths. You can even create little habitats by leaving some leaf litter, fallen branches, and rocks around for insects and small animals to hide in.

Winter gardening in South East Queensland can be a rewarding and productive time with the right approach. By following these eight tips, you'll keep your garden healthy and vibrant, ready to burst into life come spring. Embrace the cooler months as a time to nurture and prepare your garden for the exciting seasons ahead.

Are you looking for a nursery near you? 

You can order online at Sunshine Coast Plants and get your chosen plants delivered straight from the nursery to your door. To buy plants online for the Sunshine Coast, Southeast Queensland and Northern NSW areas, shop with us today!

Are need more gardening tips? 

Visit our Plant Tips area for our top gardening advice.