Green Living

We answer your questions on how to get your garden ready for winter

From the experts at Kings Plant Barn

My friend told me that I should grow lupins in my vegetable patch over winter, why and how do I do this?
Give your soil a little extra love and care during the cold winter months and plant some lupins. These bright and beautiful plants are part of a group known as “green crops,” and are helpful for improving the health of your soil. Simply get some lupin seeds (or a mixed bag of lupins, mustard, and oats) and sprinkle them over your soil. Make sure to remove any weeds and loosen the soil first, then let the plants grow and flourish. When they’re about to flower, chop them up and dig them into the soil – this will help release their nutrients and give your soil a big boost.

What are the best flowers to plant now to fill the gaps in my garden?
Some great options for filling in gaps and adding a pop of colour to your garden are pansies, primulas, poppies, cyclamen, polyanthus, and violas. These seasonal annuals are sure to bring some cheer to your outdoor space. Plus, they’ll look great in pots or containers too.

Is it still possible to plant my spring bulbs now?
Absolutely. You still have time to get them in the ground. Just make sure to keep those pesky slugs and snails at bay by using Quash on the new shoots.

All my summer vegetables have now finished, what crops can I grow over winter?
Now is the perfect time to plant delicious and hearty cabbages, broccoli, and cauliflower. You can also try your hand at growing other tasty vegetables such as broad beans, celery, silver beet, and spinach. Just remember to add sheep pellets and compost a couple of weeks before planting to provide your soil with essential nutrients.

Head to kings.co.nz for more gardening advice and inspo.

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