Things to do this month
June is the official start of Winter and frosts can be expected. When they occur protect frost sensitive plants by putting a few sheets of newspaper over them. Better still, purchase a roll of frost protectant fabric and cover with that. It is claimed that the material increases the temperature on the plant by as much as 3 degrees. June/July is the best time to empty compost bins and dig
the rotted compost into the garden and add some Seamungus. Then apply a good dressing of lime(but not around Camellias, Azaleas, Rhododendrons and Daphne).
ROSES: Begin Rose pruning around the middle of the month but if necessary, in frost prone areas, delay for a few weeks, as severe frosts can be experienced in July and August. Pruning promotes new growth, and this can be burned by frosts. Do not put rose pruning’s or old mulch in your compost. After removing all dead leaves and old mulch, gently fork in some Seamungus and then a dressing of Dolomite Lime. Spray with Lime Sulphur or Copper Oxychloride on the bushes and all around them. Install and repair any watering systems as this is the best time to get easy access.
FLOWER GARDEN: The soil is usually too cold now for germination of plant seeds to take place, so plant seedlings or potted colour of Calendula, Cornflower, Stocks, Snapdragons, Pansies, Primulas and Violas. Select and plant replacement shrubs. Divide Perennials. Any essential cutting-back of natives is best left until after frosts, and applying a dressing of “Bush Tucker”. Of course the best time for pruning natives is immediately after flowering. Apply Kahuna around Camellias when rain is expected to improve the intensity of colour of the blooms.
VEGETABLE GARDEN: Plant Cauliflower, Broccoli, Kale and Cabbage seedlings. The White Butterfly season should be over by now but keep an eye out for snails and slugs. Plant Peas, Broad Beans, Lettuce, Shallots, Garlic, Onions and Spring Onions. Divide and plant Rhubarb Crowns.
HOME ORCHARD: Select and plant new bare-root trees including Plums, Apricots, Apples, Nectarines, Peaches, and Pears, all of which do well in this area. Commence pruning all the above. Clear away all dead leaves and the remains of fruit and spray with Lime Sulphur. Plant new raspberry canes. Tidy Passion fruit and thornless Blackberries tying the new stems to strong supports while removing dead wood. Remove all weeds and grass from the base of trees. Be ready to provide support for citrus fruit if the branches are overloaded.
LAWNS: The autumn rain (when it arrives) will encourage weeds to grow. Spray with a recommended weedicide, but not within 4 days either side of mowing. De-thatch thick lawns, followed by mowing, aerating, and applying a good fertiliser. Neutrog’s ”Sudden Impact” for Lawns is an excellent choice. After spraying with herbicide do not put lawn clippings in the compost bin!
