From the expert: Great gardens are built in winter – Green Giant

by Metropol | July 8, 2026 8:33 am

Horticultural expert Nathan Neath from Green Giant Gardens says winter is one of the most important seasons to get your garden in shape.

Roses deserve a fresh start
Winter is the ideal time to prune roses while they’re dormant. Removing old, damaged growth, treating pests and diseases, and mulching plants encourages strong new growth in spring. A little attention now helps keep them healthy, tidy and flowering at their best through summer.

Fruit trees need attention too
After a season of growth, fruit trees benefit from careful pruning and treatment for disease. Done properly, it keeps trees manageable, improves airflow, encourages pollination, and helps produce healthier, more abundant crops.

Plant now, benefit later
Winter is one of the best times for planting. Cooler temperatures and moist soil help plants establish strong root systems before summer arrives, setting them up to thrive.

Take a fresh look at your garden
With plants dormant and gardens more open, winter makes it easier to identify gaps, relocate plants, and plan improvements. The Green Giant Gardens team can help identify opportunities to get the best from your garden.

Don’t forget the soil
Adding compost and organic matter improves drainage, builds soil structure, and creates healthier, fertile garden beds ready for strong growth in spring and summer.

About the expert: Nathan trained with the Royal Horticultural Society in the United Kingdom and has spent the last 20 years taking care of gardens all over the world. He leads the team at Green Giant Gardens, known for plant knowledge, quality workmanship, and helping clients improve their gardens season after season.

Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/from-the-expert-great-gardens-are-built-in-winter-green-giant/

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