From the expert: Great gardens are built in winter. Green Giant: Nathan Neath
Wondering how to make the most of your garden? Expert gardener Nathan Neath shares his winter tips.
Most people think spring is the time to improve their garden. By then, many opportunities have been missed. Winter is when experienced gardeners take stock. Without the distraction of vigorous growth, it’s easier to see a garden’s structure clearly and identify tired areas, overgrown plants, gaps in planting, irrigation issues, and spaces that aren’t working as they should.
Winter is one of the most valuable seasons in the gardening calendar. It gives us the opportunity to step back and assess a garden properly. It’s often when we help homeowners tackle areas they’ve been meaning to do something about for years.
Did you know that winter is often the best time to plant trees and shrubs? Cooler temperatures and reliable rainfall allow plants to establish strong root systems. Warm, dry spring conditions can be more challenging for new plantings. Winter is also the ideal time for structural pruning, improving soil, replacing tired plants, dividing perennials, maintaining irrigation systems, and redesigning problem areas before spring growth begins. Whether you’re tackling a problem area or planning for the seasons ahead, winter is the perfect time to make a plan.
About the expert: Nathan leads a small, owner-led horticultural team at Green Giant Gardens, providing garden design, planting and maintenance services all year round, throughout Christchurch and surrounds.
