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Enjoy the Winter Garden

As the warmth of autumn bids us farewell, we welcome the crisp embrace of June in the Northern Rivers. With the changing of the seasons comes a changing of the land, creating different experiences for us. It’s time to enjoy the misty mornings and cozy evenings.

June, brings cooler temperatures and potentially some rainfall, but it’s still a great time for gardening. Here are some tasks you might consider:

  1. Plant Winter Vegetables: June is a good time to plant winter vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, spinach, and peas. Prepare your garden beds by enriching the soil with compost before planting.
  2. Prune Fruit Trees: If you have fruit trees in your garden, June is a good time to prune them. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and shape the tree to encourage healthy growth.
  3. Mulch: Apply mulch to your garden beds to help suppress weeds. Organic mulches like straw or wood chips are ideal for this purpose.
  4. Weed Control: Keep on top of weeds in your garden beds and pathways. Regular weeding will help prevent them from competing with your plants for nutrients and water.
  5. Watering: Although June tends to be cooler and wetter than other months, keep an eye on your garden’s moisture levels and water as needed. Container plants may need more frequent watering than those in the ground.
  6. Harvest: Continue to harvest any crops that are ready, such as leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs. Harvesting regularly encourages more growth and ensures that your produce is at its freshest.
  7. Prepare for Frosts: While frost is less common in the Northern Rivers compared to other parts of Australia, it’s still a good idea to be prepared. Have frost cloths or old blankets on hand to cover sensitive plants if frost is forecasted.
  8. Maintain Garden Tools: Take some time to clean and sharpen your garden tools. Sharp tools make gardening tasks easier and help prevent damage to your plants.
  9. Plan for Spring: Use this time to plan and prepare for spring planting. Consider which flowers and vegetables you want to grow and start preparing seedlings or ordering seeds.
  10. Enjoy Your Garden: Finally, take some time to simply enjoy your garden. Sit back, relax, and appreciate the beauty of nature all around you.

While the cooler temperatures may beckon us indoors, there’s still plenty of magic to cultivate in our gardens this month. As we embrace the rhythms of nature, let’s explore the delights and tasks that await us in our outdoor sanctuaries.

Planting:

June heralds the perfect time to sow an array of winter vegetables in your garden beds. Consider planting robust greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard, along with hearty root vegetables such as carrots, turnips, and beets. Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage also thrive in the cooler months, offering a bounty of goodness for your kitchen table.

Pruning and Maintenance:

Take advantage of the cooler weather to prune fruit trees, removing any dead or diseased branches to encourage healthy growth come spring. Mulching your garden beds will help retain moisture and suppress weeds, while regular weeding ensures your plants receive the nutrients they deserve.

Harvesting and Enjoying:

As you tend to your garden, don’t forget to reap the rewards of your labour! Winter crops such as kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are at their prime, ready to grace your meals with freshness and flavour. Take a moment to savour the delights of homegrown produce, knowing that each bite is a testament to your green-thumb prowess.

Preparation and Planning:

While you tend to your garden in the present, let your mind wander to the possibilities of the future. Use this time to plan for the seasons ahead, selecting seeds and envisioning the vibrant tapestry of colours and scents that will adorn your garden in the months to come.

As we embrace winter, let our gardens be a source of solace and inspiration. May they remind us of the beauty that surrounds us and the abundance that awaits with each passing season. Happy gardening and we look forward to seeing you at the Co-Op!

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