Gardening In December Is About Balance

Gardening In December Is About Balance

​Ah, December in Adelaide, the time when the garden becomes a backdrop for festive decorations and the gathering place for family barbies. As we gear up for the holidays, let’s not forget that our gardens need a bit of extra love to stay sprightly under the fierce Aussie sun. Gardening in December is about balance – providing enough care to support vigorous growth while ensuring plants don’t suffer from the scorching heat. Here’s how you can keep your garden looking its best during Adelaide’s warmest month.

Water Wisely

As Adelaide embraces the heat, your garden’s thirst will increase. Early morning watering is the way to go, allowing moisture to seep deep into the roots before the sun gets too intense. For your parched plants, consider a good soak a few times a week rather than a daily sprinkle. This not only conserves water but also encourages stronger, deeper root systems. If you’re out and about in the early evening, another light watering can help your plants through the night, especially if the day’s been a scorcher.

Mulch Matters

Mulch is like the unsung hero of the summer garden. A generous layer can keep the soil temperature down, retain moisture, and fend off those eager weeds. Organic mulches like straw or bark break down over time, adding nutrients back into the soil. So, spread that mulch around your plants, and watch your garden thank you with vibrant growth.

Feed Your Favourites

December is a busy month for your plants; they’re growing like there’s no tomorrow. A little feed can go a long way in supporting this growth spurt. Use a quality fertiliser that suits the plants you have – natives will love a low-phosphorus feed, while your veggies and flowers might appreciate something a bit richer. Just follow the instructions to avoid overfeeding, which can do more harm than good.

Prune and Groom

Summer is not typically pruning season, but a little tidy up can help your plants focus their energy on healthy growth. Deadheading flowers encourages new blooms, perfect for that splash of colour in the garden or a festive bouquet. And if you’ve got fruit trees, a quick prune after harvest can prepare them for next year’s bounty.

Pest Patrol

With the warmth comes the critters. Aphids, snails, and other garden pests are out in force. Keep an eye out and tackle any infestations early. Often, a blast of water or some organic pest control can keep them at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals.

Planting for Pleasure

Believe it or not, December is still a good time to plant in Adelaide. Consider sun-loving veggies like capsicum, cucumber, and tomato for a late summer harvest. And for instant gratification, popping in some mature annuals will bring immediate colour and life to any bare spots in the garden.

Shade and Shelter

Your plants can get sunburned, just like us. Temporary shade cloths can protect the most vulnerable, especially during heatwaves. Positioning new plants so they get a bit of afternoon shade can also help them through the hottest part of the day.

Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labour

Remember, your garden is there to be enjoyed. Take time to sit back and appreciate the sights, smells, and sounds. The buzz of bees, the fragrance of flowering plants, and the cool shade under a tree – these are the rewards for your hard work.

Embrace the Season

December is a month of celebration, and your garden is part of that joy. Whether it’s stringing up fairy lights in the trees, setting up a new outdoor setting for the Christmas feast, or just enjoying the longer days, let your garden be a source of happiness and peace. In Adelaide, our gardens are an extension of our homes – they’re where memories are made, and good times are had. With a bit of care, they can be a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the festive season. So, water deeply, mulch generously, and then sit back with a cold drink to enjoy the beauty you’ve helped cultivate. Here’s to a December filled with growth, in the garden and beyond.