August – Flower Gardener’s Diary for New Zealand

August marks the transition from winter to spring in New Zealand, making it an exciting time for flower gardeners. With the promise of warmer weather and longer days, there are plenty of tasks to prepare your garden for a vibrant spring bloom. This diary will guide you through essential tasks and tips to ensure your flower garden flourishes.

Early August

1. Soil Preparation

• Weed and Clear: Remove weeds and debris from your flower beds to make space for new growth.
• Soil Testing: Test your soil pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve its fertility and structure.

2. Pruning and Cutting Back

• Prune Shrubs and Trees: Prune deciduous shrubs and trees to shape them and remove any dead or diseased wood.
• Cut Back Perennials: Trim back perennials that have finished flowering to tidy up the garden and promote healthy growth.

Mid-August

1. Planting

• Winter and Early Spring Flowers: Plant roses, gladiolus, crocus, hebes, lavender, lavatera, nemesia, azaleas, rhododendrons, pansies, violas, bellis, calendula, clematis, lilies, forget-me-nots, and cyclamen. These flowers will start to bloom as the weather warms up.
• Prepare for Summer Bulbs: Plan and order your summer-flowering bulbs to plant later in the season.

2. Mulching

• Mulch Beds: Apply mulch around your plants to protect them from late frosts, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like straw, bark chips, or compost work well.

3. Watering

• Consistent Watering: Ensure your plants are getting enough water, especially during dry spells. Water deeply to encourage strong root growth but avoid overwatering.

Late August

1. Fertilizing

• Feed New Plantings: Apply a balanced fertilizer to your newly planted flowers to support their growth and blooming. Follow the product instructions for the best results.

2. Pest and Disease Control

• Monitor for Pests: Watch out for pests like aphids and slugs. Use organic pest control methods such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, or hand-picking.
• Check for Diseases: Look for signs of fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Remove affected leaves and consider using a fungicide if needed.

3. Garden Planning

• Spring Layout: Plan your spring garden layout. Decide which new plants to add and where they will go. Make a list of seeds and plants to purchase.

What to Pick

1. Flowers for Picking

• Early Spring Blooms: In August, you can pick Daphne, warratah, protea, azaleas, daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, camellias, viburnum, europs, wallflowers, winter roses, hellebores, dianthus, iberis, kowhai, flowering kale, and pieris. These flowers will add color and fragrance to your home.

2. Indoor Arrangements

• Create Bouquets: Use the flowers you pick to create beautiful indoor arrangements. They will bring a touch of your garden’s spring beauty inside.

General Tips for August

• Garden Clean-Up: Keep your garden tidy by regularly removing fallen leaves, dead plants, and debris.
• Protect Plants: Use frost cloths or covers to protect tender plants from any late frosts.
• Tool Maintenance: Clean and sharpen your gardening tools. Well-maintained tools make gardening easier and more effective.

By following this flower gardener’s diary, you’ll ensure your garden is well-prepared and flourishing as spring approaches. Happy gardening!