Pruning, shaping and weeding – why August is ideal
Here are some hints and tips on why winter pruning brings out the best in your garden
DO you love gardening but think there is not much to be done in the cool winter months?
Think again, because August is the ideal time to get stuck into pruning, shaping and weeding before the onset of spring.
Annual tree pruning is essential for removing dead wood, cutting back overgrowth and giving trees and shrubs a healthy start for the flowering season.
Pruning shrubs not only helps keep their shape, but helps create flowering and stimulates the production of new buds.
A pair of sharp trimmers is essential when shaping shrubs and be sure to cut half a centimetre away from the leaf node, which ultimately sprouts new growth and will grow in the direction of the cut.
Winter is ideal for weeding, when most bedding plants have died down or are resting.
This makes it easier to spot and pull out persistent weeds while still small.
Addressing weeds throughout the year means the garden will not be overgrown by them come the summer months when everything starts growing.
During August, raking or ‘scarifying’ the lawn removes dead growth and winter debris, bringing light and air to the soil, encouraging lush, green grass.
Bare patches can be re-seeded by loosening the soil and keeping these areas well watered until seeds germinate and new grass establishes itself.
In warm areas such Zululand which is not prone to frost, late August is a good time to plant spring bulbs, and spring and summer annuals including pansies, petunias and labelias.
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