It’s the most wonderful time of the year. With the kids jingle belling, and everyone telling you, “Be of good cheer…,†so says Eddie Pola and George Wyle in their 1963 Christmas classic. But, what does your garden think of winter?
While we here in Southern California don’t have to deal with “real weather†there are precautions that we need to take on behalf of our lawns and gardens so that the taste of winter that we do experience in our environs does not adversely affect our landscape.
Mariela Guastavino (www.lequattrostagioni.us) takes a holistic approach to landscape design and maintenance. “We believe that the health of the garden starts from the ground up. Our work starts with the soil to make sure the garden is healthy and vibrant throughout all of the seasons,†says Gustavino.
For winter, Guastavino advises garden restraint. Give your plants a rest and stop fertilizing for the winter. Focus on nourishing the soil during this fallow season. You’ll have a great base into which you can plant a spring garden as a result.
Make sure your sprinkler is set appropriately for the season. Advises Guastavino “for December and January, watering your garden twice a week is sufficient. If you live further inland, you might need to water three times a week. Finally, since we will likely get occasional rain during these months, make sure you turn off your sprinkler timers when the lawn is watered naturally.â€
This helps promote root system growth forcing the roots to extend deeper in search of nourishing water. Frankly, most plants will appreciate a break and most gardens in Southern California are overwatered.
Cut back your roses – and don’t be shy when you do so. If you cut back the plants and pull back the leaves the result will be bushier plants in the spring.
For more how to make your garden beautiful year round, naturally call 310-452-5064 or visit www.lequattrostagioni.us
