You might have noticed the changes in the look of your garden as we enter the more cooler months in the Blue Mountains; the deciduous trees loosing their leaves, the lawn growth slowing down and the enthusiasm to maintain the garden becomes less and less.
Sure you mightn't have a burning desire to get out into the garden when temperatures drop below 8 degrees, and I'm sure you would much prefer to be indoors with the slow combustion heater churning out an average of 25 degree temperature whilst you sit on the couch in shorts and a tshirt but lets just think about your garden for a moment. Although it seems that it has become a dormant ecosystem, there is still a fair amount that you can do that will ensure you get the most of your paradise in the Spring and Summer months.
We've put together our top 5 projects you must do now that will have your garden thanking you in the long run!
#5 CORRECT ANY DRAINAGE ISSUES: Although it mightn't sound like an important project to undertake, correcting any drainage issues in the garden is an absolute must. Why? Because stagnant water can rot plant roots, eventually leading to the plant dying (means investing more $$ in replacing those beloved roses). Not only that, but water build-up behind retaining walls can weaken the walls integrity causing major damage which might be irreversible (means investing more $$ in replacing that beloved wall). Even blocked drains can create huge hassles in the area around the drain (means investing more $$ in fixing the damage). You can see a bit of a theme here. We'd like to save you some money by suggesting a way around these problems:
- If you notice water pooling in the garden, the easiest and most effective way of correcting this is by installing ag lines which lead to a stormwater drain - essentially this diverts the stagnat water. The same method is used during retaining wall construction.This of course can be a time consuming task but we're at your service to solve any garden drainage issues, just give us a ring on 0438 592 025 to discuss.
#4 REMOVE FALLEN LEAVES FROM LAWN: Deciduous trees are labelled 'decidious' due to the loss of all their leaves during winter. This can create a fair amount of green waste on your lawn, preventing the sun rays from providing the essential nutrients the lawn needs to survive. No nutrients = no lawn. Very easy project this one - simply rake the leaves into piles to remove off your property.
#3 MULCH GARDEN BEDS: Why not use the leaves you have just collected from the lawn and turn them into mulch. This is a fantastic way to save money, and you're doing your bit for the environment. You can easily hire a chipper from your local hire store and get chipping. Alternatively, you can invest in a variety of mulching products (e.g. eucalyptus mulch, pine bark, red chip) from your local landscaping supplies. Mulch during Winter helps retain the heat in the soil, keeps the weeds at bay and as it breaks down, a lot of it's own nutrients leach back into the soil.
#2 FERTILISE WINTER PLANTS: Not all plants are Spring and Summer lovers. Winter plants such as Camellias and Daphne can really benefit from a good fertilising as we enter the cooler months. Fertiliser comes in a variety of mediums but our recommendation is to purchase a slow release fertiliser that contains a number of nutrients which will enhance the flowering period. Liquid Fertiliser (e.g. Seasol) is another good fertiliser which should be applied to the winter plants every 2 - 3 weeks during flowering season.
#1 PRUNE: The cooler months are renowed for pruning and for good reason. It's the perfect time to remove any unwanted branches from deciduous trees and maples for example. Whilst pruning, you can take the opportunity to shape and scape the plant to influence the appearance of new growth, and check plant branch condition to ensure no pest attack or rot (particularly fruit trees).
We hope you have enjoyed reading up on our top 5 tips for garden survival during the cooler months in the beautiful Blue Mountains. We love to share our expertise and knowledge in all things garden and landscaping, particularly to those who appreciate the outdoors. There is undoubtedly one, or a number of landscaping tasks you have been putting off, whether you are time constrained or unsure how to approach and create it, which is where we come in. For all your landscaping needs, call us now: 0438 592 025. We look forward to transforming your outdoor area.
