While plenty of veges are still producing and harvest is still ongoing, there is certainly a noticeable chill in the air. As the leaves turn golden, gardeners prepare for transition. It is time to preserve the excess produce and prepare garden beds for the cooler months.
' Pull out the vegetables as they die off
' Look out for slugs
' Clean up continues: trim hedges, mow lawns, keep the weeds out
' Lift and divide clumps of perennials
Here are some more tips and things to do at this time of the year:
Brassicas thrive this season: Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower. If you would like some variety, try adding beetroots. You may also want to consider planting onions, carrots or leeks where you had brassicas last year. Move the brassicas into a new bed with good quality soil. Brassicas are heavy feeders and they need well-draining soil. Space brassica varieties (approximately) 50cm apart. If you have limited garden space, growing cabbages in containers (about 30-35 litre containers) could be your option. You may plant ariund 5 cabbages in a 35 litre container. Try planting spring onions in the same container as a great companion plant for cabbages.
If you have an abundance of tomatoes or zucchinis, it's now a good time to start preserving them (eg tomato or zucchini relish).
Keep your flower garden blooming with beautiful Stock flowers. They have stunning displays and are a perfect choice for cut flowers, and indoor floral arrangements.
It's also a great time to plant pansies. The nursery has over 20 varieties of beautiful pansies coming very soon.
Consider growing strong-smelling herbs like thyme and sage. They are useful companion plants to brassicas (Broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower) as they help repel pests.
Autumn is the time to plant a wider range of natives. Natives love the cooler breeze and they appreciate wet weather. If you are located in the warmer regions of New Zealand and you are considering planting natives now, put them in a sheltered area and water them regularly until more rain comes and the days are shorter — fast approaching.
Ornamental grasses like black mondo grass and carex are popular choices for newly-built homes and sections because of their sleek, stylish, minimalist look.