Trim the shrubbery
Spring flowering deciduous shrubs can be trimmed back after the blooms are spent, along with many native plants such as mint-bushes, thryptomene, banksias and hakea in order to give them a bushier shape. Deadhead rhododendrons as well as roses to direct energy into growth rather than forming seed.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Divide bearded iris
Once bearded iris have finished flowering, over-large clumps can be divided. Replant only the most vigorous of the outer rhizomes setting them into the ground with at least a third of the upper surface exposed to the sun. Reduce floppy foliage into a traditional fan shape to prevent wind rock whilst the roots re-establish.
Pot up a plant
With Christmas not too far away, pot up any spare seedlings – annuals, perennials or vegetables. Given food and water over the next few weeks to encourage flowers, they will make acceptable gifts for friends.
Mulch carefully
Don’t pile grass clippings around the trunks of trees – rotting bark is often the result of careless mulching.
Fill up the cracks
Herbs like thyme and pennyroyal will spread underfoot to fill in cracks between paving stones in paths.
