Winter pruning is a crucial gardening habit that sets your plants up for spectacular spring growth and abundant flowering. 

Understanding why July is the best time for pruning is key to transforming your garden’s health and appearance for the seasons ahead.

Seasonal plant care: why July is the best time for pruning

July falls right in the heart of our winter season, when most plants enter their dormant period. 

This dormancy makes winter pruning ideal for a few important reasons: 

Plants aren’t actively growing, which means they won’t waste energy trying to heal pruning wounds while simultaneously pushing new growth.

The cooler temperatures and reduced daylight hours signal plants to slow their metabolism, making this the perfect time for major structural work. 

Winter pruning also allows you to see the bare bones of deciduous trees and shrubs, making it easier to identify problem branches, crossing limbs and areas that need attention.

What plants to prune in winter and how to do it

Here’s your step-by-step pruning guide for home gardeners.

Roses

July is prime time for rose pruning. Winter pruning encourages better spring growth and abundant blooms. 

How to: Remove dead, diseased and weak canes first, then cut back healthy canes to about one-third of their height. Always cut just above an outward-facing bud to encourage open growth.

Fruit trees

Stone fruits like peaches, plums and apricots benefit from winter pruning. Focus on opening up the centre of the fruit tree for better air circulation and sunlight penetration. 

How to: Remove any branches growing inward or crossing over others. Apple and pear trees also respond well to July pruning, though they’re more forgiving if you need to delay until August.

Deciduous ornamental trees

Trees like jacarandas, plane trees and deciduous magnolias are perfect examples of trees that benefit from winter pruning. 

With their leaves gone, you can clearly see the tree’s structure and remove any dead, damaged or poorly positioned branches. This is also an excellent time to shape young trees.

How to: Make a cut just above an outward facing healthy bud or sideshoot. This will allow a new branch to grow outwards instead of inwards. Try to cut at a 45-degree angle if possible.

Shrubs and hedges

Many flowering shrubs, particularly those that bloom on new wood, benefit from winter pruning. 

Buddleia, hibiscus and many indigenous shrubs respond well to hard pruning in July. Formal hedges can also be trimmed back now.

Plants to avoid pruning in July

Spring-flowering bulbs should be left alone until their foliage dies back naturally. 

Early spring bloomers like azaleas and camellias are best pruned immediately after flowering, not during winter.

Frost-sensitive plants in colder regions should also wait until the worst of winter has passed, as pruning can stimulate growth that’s vulnerable to late frost damage.

Get your essential tools for winter pruning

For professional-quality results, invest in proper tools and supplies. Sharp secateurs, pruning saws and loppers make the job easier and ensure clean cuts that heal quickly.
The good news? Your local Stodels garden centre is your one-stop shop for all these winter pruning essentials, which means your garden will be taking full advantage of pruning benefits for plant growth and shape in no time. Happy pruning!

The post Why July is pruning month (and what to prune right now) appeared first on Stodels.

Winter houseplant problems are quite common, and understanding why they occur can help you keep your plants thriving through the colder months. 

Whether you find yourself wondering why your indoor plant is dropping leaves, or can’t figure out what yellowing leaves on indoor plants really mean, these seasonal challenges have straightforward solutions.

Winter plant care: Why winter affects your indoor plants

During the winter months, several environmental changes stress your houseplants. 

Reduced daylight hours, lower humidity levels and cooler temperatures all contribute to plant struggles. Even though your plants live indoors, they still respond to seasonal changes through windows and changing indoor conditions.

Indoor heating and closed windows create dry air that many tropical houseplants find challenging. 

Add to this the weaker winter sun, which means your plants receive less energy for photosynthesis, naturally slowing their growth and making them more vulnerable to common plant issues.

Common houseplant problems in winter and how to fix them

Find yourself troubled by the below houseplant problems in winter? Here’s our houseplant help guide including tips to keep indoor plants healthy through winter.

Houseplant problem: Yellowing leaves on plants

Eep – those once-luscious healthy green leaves are turning yellow, or even dropping leaves. What could this mean?

Rest assured, this is one of the most common houseplant problems in the cooler months. It’s also the easiest telltale for how to tell if you’re overwatering your houseplants. Plants need much less water during their dormant period, so your watering habits should change with the seasons.

Yellow leaves can also mean that your plant isn’t getting enough light, which is something to bear in mind as part of your winter plant care.

Easiest fixes:

• For overwatering: Check your plant’s soil moisture by using a moisture meter, or inserting your finger 2 – 3 centimetres deep. If it feels damp, wait before watering again.
• For more light: Move your plant closer to a window, or consider supplementing with grow lights during the darkest winter months.

Houseplant problem: Brown leaf tips and edges

Brown, crispy leaf edges usually indicate low humidity. 

During winter, our homes often become quite dry, especially with heaters running. 

Easiest fix: A winter plant care tip for homes with heaters or fireplaces is to place a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles beneath your plants, or group plants together to create a more humid microclimate.

Houseplant problem: Stunted growth and pale colours

When plants stop growing and appear pale, they’re usually not getting enough light exposure. 

This is normal during winter, but you can use indoor plant troubleshooting tactics by cleaning dust off leaves to maximise light absorption, and rotating plants weekly for even light exposure.

Creating the right winter environment

Success with winter houseplant care comes from creating stable conditions. 

Maintain consistent temperatures between 15 – 24°C, increase humidity around plants and ensure adequate air circulation without creating cold draughts.

Consider investing in a humidity meter to monitor conditions and adjust accordingly. Many common houseplant problems in winter become much easier to fix when you can measure environmental factors accurately.

For personalised advice, quality plant care products and professional-grade tools to tackle any winter houseplant problems, visit your local Stodels garden centre. 

Our experienced staff can recommend specific solutions for your plants and help you create the perfect winter care routine. 

Don’t let seasonal challenges discourage your indoor gardening journey – expert help and the right tools make all the difference.

The post Cold, dry and droopy: Solving winter plant troubles appeared first on Stodels.

You might’ve used it in a gel as a form of after-sun relief if you spent one too many minutes soaking up the sun’s rays, or perhaps you know of someone who swears by a concoction made from its juice to alleviate digestive ailments like constipation. And these aren’t new, ground-breaking benefits: for centuries, this succulent plant has been used and celebrated for its medicinal properties.

Read on for more about the aloe vera plant’s healing properties, and aloe vera uses.

Aloe vera skin benefits

Aloe vera for wounds

There’s nothing quite like that distinct cooling effect that pure aloe vera gel leaves on the skin. This soothing effect is largely thanks to the plant extract’s anti-inflammatory compounds. When applied topically, aloe vera gel accelerates the skin’s healing process by promoting cell regeneration and reducing inflammation.

This soothing plant not only hydrates and moisturises the skin, but also helps in reducing pain and irritation associated with cuts, burns and minor abrasions.

Nature’s hydrator

Its lightweight, non-greasy texture allows aloe vera gel to be absorbed quickly into the skin, providing deep hydration without leaving a heavy residue. 

The plant is naturally rich in water content, so it not only replenishes moisture, but also helps to lock it in, preventing skin from becoming dry or flaky. Its natural enzymes and vitamins, including vitamins A, C and E, help nourish the skin, keeping it soft, smooth and supple. It’s what makes aloe vera moisturiser so popular.

Pausing time

Vitamins C and E help to neutralise free radicals that contribute to premature skin aging, and the good news is that aloe vera is packed with these antioxidants. It’s unsurprising, then, that aloe vera gel for the face is something those seeking a youthful glow swear by!

Aloe vera also stimulates collagen production, a key protein that maintains skin elasticity and firmness. This results in smoother, plumper skin and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Aloe vera for digestion

Supporting the gut

Aloe vera contains compounds that help soothe and protect the digestive tract. 

These substances work to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut, providing relief for conditions like leaky gut syndrome and inflammatory bowel diseases. By supporting the gut’s mucosal barrier, aloe vera helps maintain a healthy digestive environment, improving nutrient absorption and promoting overall gut health.

Aloe vera is widely regarded as a natural digestive aid, offering a variety of benefits for the gastrointestinal system. The plant has enzymes that help break down sugars and fats, supporting better digestion and nutrient absorption. 

The plant also has mild laxative properties, making it effective in promoting regular bowel movements and alleviating constipation. Beyond its digestive benefits, aloe vera helps soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 

*Note: when using any aloe vera products to aid digestive health, it’s important to do so under the guidance and supervision of a registered health practitioner.

Grow your own aloe vera: gardening tips

We now know the range of aloe vera health benefits, but what’s even better is that this plant is incredibly easy to grow in your own garden.

Just ensure that yours is planted in well-drained soil and protected from frost if you live in the really cold parts of the country, and you’ll be making the most of this succulent’s medicinal benefits in no time.
Browse aloe vera plants online* (*Western Cape only) and in-store.

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Why grow your own garden-to-kitchen vegetables?

Besides giving you another reason to spend time in your garden (as if you needed one!), growing vegetables for soup has a range of benefits for your meals, your pocket and your health:

• A budget-friendly way to cook. The more you incorporate seasonal vegetable growing into your home vegetable garden, the less you need to rely on buying cold-season vegetables from the supermarket.
• Fresher than fresh. No grocery-shopped carrots, onions or leeks will be as fresh as those you pull from the earth right on your doorstep moments before cooking.
• What you need, when you need it. The beauty of winter vegetable gardening is that you get more control over what you plant, and can harvest your produce when you need to.

Which are the best winter vegetables to grow?

Which vegetables thrive in our local winter conditions? Here’s our pick:

Carrots

Ask any novice gardener who’s added these nutrient-rich soup staples to their veggie patch, and they’ll tell you they are one of the easiest winter veggies to grow. 

Linked to lower cholesterol levels and better eye health, they’re often paired with celery and onion to make a great base for soup dishes.

Chantenay Karoo is a popular variety, known for its long tapered, deep orange carrots with strong tops, and can be grown from seeds available at your local Stodels garden centre. These carrots have a crisp texture and sweet flavour, bringing dimension to any winter vegetable soup.

Looking to fast-track your growing process? Pick up a carrot seedlings 6-pack instead. 

Top tip: For a continuous supply throughout winter, sow a new row every 3 to 4 weeks.

Onions

From ground to kitchen, a good companion of carrots are onions. Growing onions in alternating rows with carrots keeps carrot fly at bay, and onions work well with carrots to create an aromatic base for winter veggie soups.

The Texas Grano variety is available in vegetable seed packs at your nearest Stodels garden centre, and has a mild, sweet flavour – making it ideal not only for your cold-season stews and soups, but sliced up in salads and sandwiches, too.

Top tip: Onions have very shallow root systems, so they can’t compete with weeds for water. Make sure you keep your onion patch well weeded.

Spinach

Iron-packed and one of the fastest growing winter vegetables that also add bulk to your winter soup, spinach deserves a spot in your winter veggie garden.

The Fordhook Giant variety is available in seed packs at Stodels, and is ideal for sautéing, steaming or adding to winter veggie soups and stews. A rich source of vitamin K, spinach is known to help regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health.

Top tip: Make sure you grow your spinach in well-drained soil rich in organic matter for the best yield.

Leeks

Growing leeks has a few advantages outside of the delicious depth of flavour they bring to your soups and stews. 

For one, they don’t need a huge amount of space, growing upright in a small patch of your garden. They also are ready for harvesting by 10 or 12 weeks, meaning you can sow them in early June and use them in, say, a batch of leek and potato soup by early August.

Grow them from seedlings or sow Carentan leek seeds in your vegetable garden beds for a hardy, fast-growing plant that will reward you with a distinct mild, sweet flavour to accompany your other winter season veggies in soups.

Top tip: Leeks have attractive foliage, making them a great ornamental plant, too.

Start your winter soup garden today

At your local Stodels garden centre, you can browse a range of seedlings and seeds for your home vegetable garden that will take your winter vegetable soups to the next level.
Got questions about companion planting, or the best gardening tools to get the most rewarding harvest? Our in-store experts and Consultants-on-Call service are there for just that. Armed with your vegetable planting list, the right tools and expert advice, you’ll be stirring a pot of extra-satisfying winter veggie soup in no time.

The post Best winter vegetables to grow for soup appeared first on Stodels.

These hardy winter flowers are the superheroes of the chilly season, adding cheerful colour when you need it most. Giving these cold-weather annuals a little TLC will keep them flowering right through the frost.

Winter garden colour

Violas and pansies are cold-weather annuals that are known for their bright and bold hardiness during the coldest months.

They’re both part of the Viola genus, with pansies tending to have bigger, bolder flowers, and violas leaning more on the smaller side, but usually producing more flowers. In a nutshell: pansies are the show-offs, violas are the overachievers – and together, they put on an impressive winter garden show.

Combining pansies and violas for a colourful winter flower bed

Chase the (winter) sun

Pansies and violas thrive in full sun to partial shade. In winter, don’t be shy about chasing the sun. A north-facing spot with good light is ideal. These beauties don’t need scorching temperatures, but they do love a bit of warmth and lots of light.

Spade up

A great soil preparation technique for winter-flowering annuals is to aim for something well-draining and rich in organic matter. If your garden soil is on the heavy side, dig in some compost to lighten things up. Raised beds, containers and hanging baskets also work really well as creative container gardening ideas using pansies and violas in winter.

Protecting pansies and violas from frost and cold snaps

One of the joys of these flowers is their ability to shrug off cold snaps. A light frost may make them look a bit sad in the morning, but they usually perk up once the sun returns. 

In extreme temperatures, ie when the soil freezes, the roots can’t absorb water from the frozen soil. This is why it’s so important to do what you can to keep soil warm enough for the pansy and viola root systems to survive.

• If you’re expecting a hard frost, a light fleece or frost cloth will protect them overnight. Drape the cloth over your pansies and violas, making sure it touches the soil but doesn’t directly rest on the plants themselves. Secure the edges with rocks, bricks or garden pins so the cloth stays in place during windy conditions.

• Insulate with mulch.

Apply a thick layer (about 5 – 7cm) of mulch around the base of your plants. This helps to insulate the roots from the freezing temperatures, and prevents the soil from becoming too cold too quickly.

• Water plants before frost hits.

Water your plants in the morning before the frost hits. Wet soil holds more heat overnight than dry soil, which can help protect the roots from freezing. Be careful to only water if the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in winter when the plant’s growth slows.

• Use a diluted liquid fertiliser to boost the overall health of your plants.

Feed once a month during the colder months but avoid fertilising during frosty conditions, as it may encourage soft, susceptible growth.

Grow boldly

With this viola and pansy care guide, you’ll be on your way to delighting in these striking winter beauties in just a few weeks.

Ready to start your winter planting journey? 

Browse pansies and violas online* or at your nearest Stodels garden centre to add those coveted pops of colour to your winter garden. 

*Western Cape only.

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Yes, winter is when all the action happens below ground. Planting flowering bulbs during the cooler months is a sure way to guarantee a floral display that’ll be the envy of the neighbourhood when the seasons turn. 

Whether you’re a seasoned soil-sifter or just getting your green thumbs dirty, here’s our guide to helping you get it right.

Best bulbs to plant during autumn and winter

Most spring bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and ranunculuses need a bit of a winter chill to wake up properly and flower later on. 

Aromatic freesias and sophisticated Dutch irises are also smart additions to your garden in May to prepare for a sensory show of colour come spring. 

Also consider anemones, sparaxis and tritonias for interesting shapes to add a striking accent to your spring garden beds.

Preparing soil for winter bulb planting

Before you prepare your soil, have a clear plan of how many bulbs you want to plant, and where. 

Plant your bulbs in a group formation of 12 – 15 bulbs, together, covering roughly half a square metre, rather than trying to stretch out the area by planting next to each other.

Choosing the perfect spot

Directly in the ground

Choose a spot in the garden for your cold-weather bulbs that gets plenty of winter sun and has well-draining soil. 

To help improve your garden’s soil quality and give your bulbs the best chance at success, explore these tips.

Container gardening

Raised beds or containers are also excellent options if your garden tends to hold water, or you’re short on space. Keep pots in a sunny, sheltered spot during winter, and don’t let them dry out completely. A little water here and there is all they ask for.

Use this guide to choose the right container for your garden. For the Gauteng gardeners, it’s worth adding water-retaining granules to your containers to slow down water loss during the dry winter months.

Fun tip for container bulb gardening: Try ‘bulb lasagne’ planting: layering early-, mid-, and late-season bulbs like tulips and daffodils for a prolonged show of colour.

Tips for preparing soil

• Prepare your garden beds or containers at least a week before planting your bulbs to give the fertiliser a chance to dissolve. If you skip this step, the fertiliser could burn the bulbs. 

• The best soil for flower bulbs is sandy loam. Bulbs hate soggy feet, so avoid clay-heavy spots, unless you’re willing to amend them with compost and a little sand to improve drainage. 

• Remove anything from the soil that could compete with your bulbs – this could be grass or weeds.

How to plant bulbs

1. Dig a hole 2 – 3 times as deep as the bulb is tall. For example, if bulbs are 5cm high, aim for a planting depth of 10 – 15cm.

2. Prepare the hole with a layer of compost or well-rotted manure.

3. Spacing them out according to the package instruction, plant bulbs pointy side up.

4. Finally, cover with enough soil, and water the bulbs well to help them settle.

Watering and feeding tips for bulbs during winter

Good bulb care in winter is easy, if you get the basics right. 

Make these tips for taking care of bulbs in colder weather part of your routine and you will be well on your way to beautiful flowering bulbs come spring.

Watering

As part of your winter bulb maintenance, correct and regular watering should be at the top of your bulb care to-do list.

Bulbs’ roots need to be kept continuously moist from the moment they are in the ground. In the Cape, provided winter rainfall is plentiful and consistent, this is an easy ask. For drier spells, especially those up country, bulbs need watering for approximately 45 minutes every 4 – 5 days.

A layer of mulch will help keep the soil temperature stable and discourage weeds from staging a winter takeover.

Feeding

A light feed with a balanced fertiliser once the shoots start popping up in early spring will give them a boost just when they need it. 

Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilisers, which can produce floppy foliage instead of flowers.

Introducing: the bulb and the beautiful

You’re all set! Now all that’s left to do is pick your favourite bulb varieties and get digging. 

If you ever feel uncertain on your gardening journey, rest assured that our friendly gardening experts at your nearest Stodels garden centre are on standby and happy to help. 

Alternatively, use our consultants-on-call service to book a session with a qualified horticulturalist and experienced nursery team for advice on the best plants and garden layout for your garden. Happy planting!

The post How to grow and maintain bulbs in winter appeared first on Stodels.

For us, that means an opportunity to entertain the kids by introducing them to the wonder and rewards of gardening through simple, fun projects that can be completed during our short holiday period. Read on for inspiration for kids’ gardening activities.

Sock puppets with cress hair – a growing friend!

What you’ll need:

• Old socks
• Cotton wool
• Cress seeds
• Googly eyes and craft supplies
• Small plastic containers

This is a lovely easy garden craft project for children. Get them to fill a sock with cotton wool, secure with an elastic band, and decorate with eyes and a face using googly eyes and craft supplies. 

Place this in a container with a bit of water, sprinkle cress seeds on top, and watch as their puppets grow a wild green hairstyle within days! Children can trim their puppet’s ‘hair’ when it gets too long – and add it to sandwiches for a nutritious crunch.

Eggshell planters – tiny gardens with big impact

What you’ll need:

• Eggshells (halved and cleaned)
• Egg carton (as a holder)
• Potting soil
• Small, quick-growing seeds (basil works well)

Help your kids fill each eggshell with soil, plant one or two seeds, and mist daily. Once seedlings appear, the little ones can either transfer the entire eggshell into the garden (it will decompose naturally) or gift their tiny plants to loved ones.

Painted stone plant markers – practical creativity

What you’ll need:

• Smooth, flat stones (collected from the garden)
• Waterproof paints or markers
• Clear varnish (optional, for weather protection)

This project combines art with organisation – perfect for children who love sorting and labelling! 

Collect stones, clean them thoroughly, and have your kids paint pictures of vegetables, herbs or flowers on them. These can then be placed in garden beds to mark what’s growing where, especially useful during winter vegetable planting season.

Recycled bottle terrariums – miniature worlds

What you’ll need:

• Clear plastic bottles
• Small pebbles
• Activated charcoal
• Potting soil
• Small indigenous plants or succulents

Cut a large plastic bottle horizontally, fill the bottom section with layers of pebbles, charcoal and soil, then add small plants. 

Replace the top of the bottle to create a self-contained ecosystem that requires minimal watering – perfect for teaching the kiddos about our country’s water conservation needs while creating something beautiful.

The joy of growing together

These holiday activities aren’t just about keeping little hands busy, they’re about nurturing a love for plants, teaching responsibility, and creating memories that will bloom throughout the year. The joy on your little one’s face when they notice their first seedling breaking through the soil is priceless.

Remember, gardening projects build patience and understanding of natural cycles – valuable skills in our fast-paced world. So this holiday, don’t just entertain your children; root them in experiences that will grow into lifelong appreciation for our natural world.Visit your nearest Stodels garden centre for all your project supplies.

The post Fun holiday garden projects for kids appeared first on Stodels.

This versatile herb offers remarkable health benefits that complement its distinct fragrance and hardy nature. 

Read on to find out about lavender’s medicinal uses, and why adding lavender to your garden might be one of the best decisions for both your landscape and wellbeing.

The soothing scent that transforms moods

There’s something special about walking through a garden and brushing against lavender shrubs. That distinctive aroma isn’t just pleasant – it’s therapeutic. Research shows that lavender’s scent can significantly reduce anxiety and stress levels. In our fast-paced lives, having a natural stress reliever growing right in your garden has its clear advantages.

The essential oils in lavender interact with the brain in ways that help lower heart rate and blood pressure. That’s your cue to sit near flowering lavender the next evening you get a chance, to allow it to help you unwind after a busy day and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

Beauty sleep in a bloom

Speaking of sleep… Lavender aromatherapy might be the answer to restless nights:

• A small sachet of dried lavender under your pillow can improve sleep quality
• Lavender oil in a diffuser creates a sleep-friendly bedroom environment
• A cup of lavender tea before bedtime helps quiet an active mind

Our local climate provides perfect conditions for growing varieties that produce high concentrations of the compounds responsible for these sleep-enhancing properties.

Natural relief for common ailments

Beyond its calming effects, lavender offers surprising practical health applications. Learn about lavender’s antimicrobial properties and lavender skin health benefits:

Skin’s best friend

Lavender has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that make it excellent for skin care. 

Among lavender oil’s uses are its ability to help soothe minor burns, insect bites and skin irritations.

Many gardeners keep a small bottle of home-distilled lavender oil in their first aid kits for exactly these purposes.

Headache helper

Those prone to tension headaches might find pain relief in lavender. 

A cold compress with a few drops of lavender oil applied to the forehead can reduce headache intensity – a natural alternative worth trying before reaching for medication.

Growing your own wellness garden

The great news is that lavender thrives in our climate. 

With well-drained soil and full sun, these hardy plants will reward you with years of blooms and benefits. Even those with limited space can grow lavender in containers on balconies or patios.

Consider planting different varieties to extend the blooming season, ensuring you have access to fresh lavender from spring through autumn. 

Margaret Roberts lavender is particularly well-suited to our growing conditions.

Harvest, dry, enjoy

The joy of growing lavender extends to harvesting. Cut stems when flowers are just opening for the strongest fragrance. Hang small bundles upside down in a dark, dry place for about two weeks, and you’ll have dried lavender to enjoy year-round.

From enhancing your sleep to easing stress, lavender offers a simple, natural approach to wellness, right from your own garden. Why not make this versatile herb the next addition to your outdoor space? Your body, mind, and garden visitors will thank you! Shop our range of lavender at your local Stodels Garden Centre today.

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What is composting?

If there’s one thing your garden plants love most, it’s nutrient-rich soil that helps them live their best lives. And one way to help boost the nutrient density of your soil is by adding compost to it. 

Compost is decomposed organic matter that looks very similar to fertile garden soil. It’s the product of composting, which is a natural process of recycling organic matter like leaves and kitchen scraps – good news for home gardeners looking to reduce their household waste, garden for the future and keep their pride and joy in tip-top shape.

Composting benefits

Let’s begin with the benefits of composting for your plants. Naturally, because you are boosting the nutrient content of your garden soil, your overall soil quality improves. 

Compost can act as a slow-release fertiliser for plants and microbes. To add, compost helps soil retain more moisture, while still allowing excess water to drain away. This makes it a waterwise addition to your gardening routine.

Compost is also effective at balancing the pH of soil, which helps to reduce plant stress. And while it’s at it, compost gives soil the structure it needs for plant roots to easily expand and access the nutrients they need.

Compost also serves as a defence force in your garden, helping to reduce the proliferation of pests and disease

What you need for composting

• A bin with good drainage and ventilation
• Alternatively, a shady, accessible space in your garden that you can use as a compost heap. Prepare a ‘bed’ for the heap by placing a layer of branches and twigs on the ground to allow drainage and air flow.

Shred all material into small pieces and layer it on the heap in 20-centimetre layers, alternating between dry and wet material. Sprinkle some compost activator on each layer to get the decomposition process going. Once you have your own compost, you can use existing compost to activate a new heap.

Composting methods

Composting kitchen waste at home

Your kitchen is a gold mine of composting materials. 

Coffee grounds from your morning brew, vegetable peels, fruit waste and eggshells are perfect starting points. Avoid adding meat, fish or dairy products, as these can attract unwanted visitors like hadedas and rats. 

Tea bags and paper towels are also excellent additions, but remember to remove any staples or plastic components.

Composting with worms (vermicomposting)

This is perfect for composting in small spaces or composting in urban areas, and produces some of the richest compost you can get.

Red wiggler worms are composting champions – they’ll happily munch through your kitchen scraps, creating nutrient-dense worm castings that are ideal for your plants. Keep your worm farm in a cool, shaded area, and ensure it’s well-drained, but moist.

Composting yard waste effectively

Our climate gives us plenty of garden waste throughout the year. 

Dry leaves, grass clippings and small twigs are excellent carbon-rich composting materials. During winter, when jacarandas shed their leaves, you’ll have plenty of brown material to add to your heap. 

Mix these with green materials like fresh grass clippings and prunings from your indigenous plants. Remember to chop larger items into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition.

How long does it take for compost to be ready?

Compost is usually ready in three to six months.

How can you tell? 

Look for dark, crumbly material that smells like earth after rain. Use it to enrich your vegetable patch, boost your flower beds, or give your indigenous plants a nutrient boost.

Composting tips

• Aim for a mixture of ‘brown’ materials (dry leaves, cardboard, newspaper) and ‘green’ materials (kitchen scraps, fresh grass clippings). 

• During dry seasons, keep your compost heap as moist as a wrung-out sponge. 

• Layer your materials rather than dumping them all in one go. This helps create air pockets and speeds up decomposition. Turn your heap every few weeks with a garden fork – this adds oxygen and helps create compost faster.

• If your compost heap starts to smell, it usually means it’s too wet or has too many green materials. Add more brown materials and turn the pile to improve airflow. During our hot summers, you might notice the heap drying out – a quick sprinkle with the watering can should sort this out.

At Stodels, we stock a wide range of products to help your garden grow at its best, including compost, fertiliser and lawn dressing. Browse our range, or speak to one of our expert consultants at your nearest Stodels Garden Centre about your garden’s needs.

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Whether it’s for the delicious soups on your cool-weather cooking list, delectable roasts for those cosy family weekend meals, or simply having an endless supply of home-grown basics like leafy greens for whenever spontaneity strikes – we have you covered with our autumn vegetable planting guide for gardeners.

Here, we share the vegetables to plant in autumn, as well as tips for companion planting. 

Leafy legends

Start with spinach – both English and Swiss chard varieties. 

These hardy greens thrive in our autumn conditions and will keep producing leaves throughout the season. Plant them in well-composted soil and ensure it stays healthy with less frequent, deep watering. 

Lettuce is another autumn vegetable garden winner, and, in addition to spinach, is one of the autumn vegetables to grow in shade. 

Top tip: try loose-leaf varieties that allow you to harvest outer leaves while the plant continues growing.

Brassica brigade

Cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli are autumn favourites that deserve prime spots in your autumn vegetable planting list. 

These nutrient-rich vegetables need about 60 to 90 days to mature, so getting them in the ground now means you’ll have fresh produce during the winter months. Don’t forget to space them properly – these guys need room to grow!

Root for you

Carrots and beetroot are the perfect vegetables to plant in autumn. 

Our soils can be quite heavy, so work in plenty of compost and ensure the soil is loose to a depth of at least 30 centimetres. 

Top tip: Plant radishes between your carrots – they’ll be ready to harvest in just 4 to 6 weeks, marking rows and breaking up the soil for their slower-growing neighbours.

Allium army

The makings of a marvellous soup should all go in the ground now to be ready for the heart of winter. Onions, garlic and leeks planted now will be ready for harvest in late winter or early spring. 

These kitchen staples are relatively low maintenance. A bonus is that they help deter pests from your other vegetables. Plus, there’s nothing quite like pulling your own garlic from the ground!

All together now: Companion plants

Celery, radishes and other leafy greens like coriander make great companion plants for spinach, so when planning your vegetable garden beds for autumn, consider planting these veggie friends together.

Basil, sage, dill and thyme make ideal herby companions to both broccoli and cabbage, while cabbage and cauliflower can easily get along with celery and beetroot in your veggie patch.

Onions and sage work well alongside both beetroot and carrot plants, while lettuce, spinach and peas keep radishes in good company. 

Autumn vegetable planting tips

To increase your odds of getting your autumn vegetables growing strong, we suggest helping them along with these easy tips:

Soil preparation

Prepare your soil thoroughly before planting. 

Our intense summer sun can deplete soil nutrients, so rejuvenate your kitchen garden beds with plenty of compost and well-rotted manure.

Mulch

Mulch well after planting. Not sure what type of mulch is ideal for your vegetable garden? Browse our range of mulch products in-store.

Alternatively, a layer of straw or autumn leaves helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature as the weather changes.

Thyme to get growing

At your local Stodels Garden Centre, you’ll find everything – and we mean everything – you need to start planning and planting your autumn vegetable garden. Seeds, seedlings, spades, watering cans, mulch… not to mention gardening experts available to guide you on your kitchen gardening journey.

Start small, learn from your successes and failures, and most importantly, enjoy the process of growing your own food.

The post Best vegetables to plant in autumn appeared first on Stodels.

But these plants offer far more than just decorative appeal – they’re quiet champions of health and wellbeing in our homes and offices.

Oxygen legends

Unlike many other houseplants that only release oxygen during the day, succulents are among the few plants that continue their oxygen production at night. 

This makes them brilliant bedroom companions, as they work tirelessly to improve your air quality while you catch those precious Zs. Places with plenty of plants typically have humidity levels that support better sleep, and the slight increase in oxygen can help reduce sleep apnoea symptoms.

Certain varieties, like the snake plant and Aloe vera, are particularly good at nighttime oxygen production.

Natural air purifiers

Living in our modern world means constant exposure to various indoor pollutants, like dust, pesticides and chemicals from certain cleaning products. 

Succulents act as natural air purifiers, absorbing toxins through their leaves and roots. They’re particularly good at removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air, including benzene and formaldehyde, which are commonly found in household products.

Your desktop mental health mate

Studies have shown that having plants in your workspace can reduce stress levels and increase productivity by up to 15%. 

Succulents, with their minimalist beauty and low-maintenance nature, are perfect for creating a calm, focused environment. Their presence can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety and improve concentration – all while sitting pretty on your desk!

Moisture maestros in the making

Succulents naturally help regulate indoor humidity levels by releasing water vapour into the air. 

This can help prevent the growth of mould and mildew, while creating a more comfortable living environment.

First aid in a pot

Some succulent varieties, particularly Aloe vera, have remarkable medicinal properties. 

The gel found inside aloe leaves contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It’s nature’s own first aid kit for minor burns, cuts and skin irritations. Many South African households keep an aloe plant handy for these reasons.

Budget-friendly wellness

In times when wellness products can cost a pretty penny, succulents offer an affordable way to naturally improve your living space and health. They’re easy to propagate, meaning you can grow your collection from a single plant, sharing the health benefits (and cuttings!) with friends and family.

Care tips for maximum benefits

To get the most health benefits from your succulents:

• Place them in areas with good airflow
• Ensure they receive enough (but not excessive) sunlight
• Clean their leaves occasionally to maintain optimal air-purifying abilities
• Group different varieties together to maximise their collective benefits
• Rotate them now and then to ensure even growth and effectiveness

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant parent journey, succulents offer an accessible way to improve your health and wellbeing. Their resilient nature makes them perfect for a busy lifestyle, and their varied shapes and sizes ensure there’s a perfect match for every space, not to mention the chance to build a diverse collection.

Remember, while these plants are low-maintenance, they’re high impact when it comes to health benefits. So next time you visit your closest Stodels Garden Centre, or find yourself browsing online (Western Cape only) consider adding a few of these plants to your collection. 

Your body and mind will thank you for it!

The post The health benefits of succulents appeared first on Stodels.

Here are our favourite houseplants to gift your Valentine this February and show just how much you care.

Peace lily

There’s something magical about the elegant peace lily, with its glossy dark leaves and pristine white flowers. It’s said that their flowers symbolise devotion – does it get any more romantic?

Perfect for our humid coastal areas or air-conditioned Joburg apartments, this hardy plant thrives in low to medium light conditions. And, just like lasting love itself, it responds beautifully to consistent care and attention. Here’s a guide to getting it right.

String of hearts

Our list simply wouldn’t be complete without this heart-themed alternative to roses for Valentine’s Day. 

Native to our shores, the string of hearts is a trailing groundcover that perfectly captures the spirit of romance. Its delicate heart-shaped leaves cascade down like natural valentines, making it perfect as a hanging basket plant, or positioned as a statement piece on a high shelf. 

Even in our scorching summers, it’s remarkably drought-tolerant – ideal for those partners who might occasionally forget to water their plants!

Anthurium

Want to make a bold statement? 

Also known as the flamingo flower, or lace leaf plant, the anthurium‘s waxy, heart-shaped flowers come in shades of red that last for months, and are complemented by heart-shaped leaves, too. 

They thrive in bright indirect light, especially in coastal areas like Cape Town. You may be surprised to learn that their striking long-lasting blooms are actually modified leaves that attract pollinators.

This is a gift that makes a statement!

Patio rose

What’s better than gifting a bunch of roses? Gifting a patio rose plant, of course!

A list of plants to gift on Valentine’s Day simply wouldn’t be complete without this traditional swoon-worthy choice. They’re the ideal choice for a patio, but will can thrive indoors in a very well-lit area: think hybrid settings like a sunroom.

Chinese evergreen

For those new to plant parenthood, the Chinese evergreen is a foolproof choice that still brings plenty of style. 

Some varieties sport lovely pink or red variegation, making them especially appropriate for Valentine’s Day. They’re incredibly forgiving in indoor conditions and don’t mind if you forget about them for a week or two – though we wouldn’t recommend the same approach with your relationship!

African violet 

African violets, with their dainty purple, pink, or white blooms, are perfect Valentine’s gifts in our climate. 

These compact beauties flower year-round in indoor conditions and symbolise faithfulness in love. Their velvety leaves and charming flowers bring a touch of romance to any sunny windowsill, while being surprisingly low-maintenance. Share these tips with your sweetheart to ensure their gift thrives along with your romance.

Care tips for your Valentine’s plant

Remember to include care instructions with your gift. Most of these plants prefer well-draining potting soil and should only be watered when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry. Our summer temperatures mean they might need more frequent watering, but it’s always better to underwater than overwater.

These indoor beauties make meaningful Valentine’s Day gifts that will continue to bring joy long after the chocolates have been eaten and the roses have wilted. Plus, every new leaf will remind your loved one of your growing relationship – now that’s romance that lasts!
Remember to visit your local Stodels Garden Centre early, as these popular varieties tend to sell out quickly in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day.

The post Gift these love-ly houseplants this Valentine’s Day appeared first on Stodels.