Page 8 - Welcome Home Magazine November 2021

Launnie

GARDENING TIPS

Good preparation is critical for your garden to survive the wilting effects of the Aussie summer. Summer
means different things to different gardeners. While most of the Tasmania bakes dry and burns, for instance,
the steamy Top End of Australia is rejuvenated by drenching storms. But for all of us, summer brings common
challenges, such as dividing time and effort between keeping our gardens in good shape, and enjoying them

during the summer holidays.

Helping pots to stay cool

Potted plants, especially those in terracotta pots, are vulnerable to overheating. Lightly mulch and, where
possible, position them out of hot western sunshine. Remember that standing potted plants in saucers of
water encourages root rot and mosquito breeding. Instead, stand them in saucers filled with sand, and keep
the sand moist. This ensures roots stay cool and plants remain healthy. If potted plants dry out to the point
where re-wetting is hard, soak them in a bucket of water for half an hour, then drain.

Benefits of Mulch

A layer of mulch limits moisture loss from the soil and saves you the job of weeding.
The trick is getting the depth right. Generally, you need a 50-75mm layer. But only
mulch to about 50mm in native gardens or gardens that aren’t irrigated. If the mulch is
too thick, rain won’t always make it down to the soil.