While it's true winter is traditionally a dormant period for many plants, it shouldn't be considered a dormant period for the gardener.

Winter is your time to clean up shop in preparation for spring. Pruning, clearing away the dead wood, composting and mulching will all pay dividends in the growing seasons.

Garden designer, Matthew Shaw says preparation is the key word for the winter gardener. It's all about giving your plants the best possible opportunity to do their best performance in spring and summer he says.

"Preparing your garden beds ready for spring is very important," says Shaw.

"Mulching retains moisture and also keeps the roots warm and composting will give your plants a safe hot bed ready for their spring growth."

Shaw suggests winter planting under trees or against fences as protection against the elements.

"I like to create habitats underneath large evergreen trees or on verandas," he says.
To maximise exposure to the sun, Shaw also suggests planting out in pots that can be moved to the sunniest positions: particularly vegies and herbs that should be planted in shallow pots to keep the roots warm.

"During winter you want to be very aware of your sun catching areas and move your pots into those," says Shaw.

Winter to-do list:

1/ Clean all your tools and keep everything dry over the winter period to prevent corrosion.

2/ Throw out any disease or pest-ridden plants.

3/ Slow down watering to every two to three weeks. Wait until spring to fertilise.

4/ The sun is low and North-facing, so don't grow anything large and evergreen that will reduce the light into the house.

5/ Planting in winter allows the roots to settle in preparation for spring growth.

6/ The best way to create a beautiful garden is to be beautiful yourself.

by DAREN POPE

Details: Contemporary Gardens
www.matthewshawdesigns.blogspot.com