Get growing
Abode’s inimitable new columnist, nationally renowned soft landscaping expert and director of Ko & Co, Kim Odering, tells us about the four main ingredients for gardening success.
I’m a fourth-generation ‘plantswoman’ who quite literally grew up in a plant nursery and garden centre. People often come to me for help, knowing that something isn’t quite right in their garden space, but they just can’t put their finger on what it is. Creating and understanding what great gardens need from the ground up initially takes a lot of work and a lot of love.
Here are my four main ingredients that are a must if you want a wonderful garden
Soil Condition
Plants thrive when planted in the correct soil to suit their type. When I’m planting, I make the hole wider and deeper and use a potting mix to suit all plant types and mix in at least fifty-fifty with the existing soil. I use a mix that contains food already, so I don’t worry about feeding for another six months.
Water
In any garden, you will have shady areas that need less water generally, and sunnier spots that need more. In summer, those shady areas need a lot more water than you think. My rule of thumb is water every day in 25-degree heat or more, in both the morning and evening. Keep in mind that in the heat large pots will require up to 10 litres every day.
Feeding
For pots, apply a long-term slow-release fertiliser three times a year – in spring, summer and autumn. Vegetable gardens, tomato plants and strawberries in particular, may need feeding more. When you see any sign of yellowing leaves this could indicate a lack of food. Follow the instructions on the packet to avoid overfeeding. The rest of the garden should be fertilised at least twice a year in spring and early autumn.
Pruning
This will make a world of difference to the structure and health of your garden. Pruning is an essential aspect of garden maintenance. Be sure to get advice on the specific pruning methods to keep your plants growing well.
February is generally a month to enjoy all your hard work and pick the fruits of your labour. However, if you find it hard to sit still, you can replant colourful bedding plants. Once autumn comes, keep planting vegies, to get as much out of the season as possible, especially in warmer regions.
03 339 4971 | koandco.nz
