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.

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!

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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.

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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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When it comes to gardening, waiting months to see results can feel like an eternity for your little one. Fortunately, there are plants that pop up faster than a toddler’s mood swing. Read through our list of quick-growing plants that will turn your children into gardening lovers without boredom entering the equation.

Radish race

Radishes are the sprinters of the vegetable world, perfect for introducing your kids to the joy of gardening. 

In just three weeks, these crisp, peppery vegetables transform from tiny seeds to harvest-ready crops. Your little ones will be amazed watching bright red or white roots push through the soil, offering an almost instant reward for their gardening efforts. 

Plant seeds directly in loose, well-draining soil, and water consistently. Within about three weeks your little gardener can literally pull their own food from the ground – a moment of pure excitement that will spark their love for growing things.

Learn more about how to grow your own radishes, here.

Full of beans

Green beans are a miracle of growth. Whether bush or pole varieties, these plants shoot up with remarkable speed. 

Start with seeds directly in the ground or in a container, and watch as shoots emerge within days. Bush beans are particularly child-friendly, growing to full size in just 50 to 55 days and producing multiple harvests. 

The process of watching a tiny seed transform into a plant laden with beans is like witnessing a bit of garden magic. Plus, picking their own beans will be an adventure that connects your little ones directly to their food.

Walking on sunshine

Nothing captures a child’s imagination quite like a sunflower. 

These cheerful giants can grow an astonishing 30 centimetres in a single week during peak growing season. 

Plant the seeds in a sunny spot with good soil, and your kids can literally measure their progress daily. Some varieties can reach heights of three metres, creating a living measuring stick that kids can marvel at. 

The large seeds are easy for small hands to plant, and the rapid growth provides instant gratification that keeps your young gardener engaged and excited. Here are some tips to ensure the best growth for your sunflower.

Mighty microgreens

For impatient young gardeners with limited space, microgreens are the ideal solution. 

These baby vegetable greens can be harvested in just 7–14 days, making them the ultimate quick-grow project. Perfect for windowsills or small containers, microgreens like radish, sunflower, and pea shoots provide an instant gardening win. Follow this guide to growing your own microgreens.

Children can plant, water and harvest these nutritional powerhouses in less time than it takes to watch a few cartoons. The process teaches patience and care, and provides a delicious, nutritious reward.

Nasturtiums: colourful and edible blooms

Nasturtiums are the superheroes of the quick-growing flower world. 

In just one to two months, these vibrant plants transform from seeds to full, cascading flowers. What makes them extra special for kids is that they’re completely edible – adding a peppery kick to salads and turning gardening into a delicious adventure. 

Their bright flowers in yellows, oranges and reds are like natural paint splashes in the garden. Your child can plant the seeds, watch them sprout, and then actually eat their creation – an experience that connects them directly to nature.

Explore other edible flowers in this round-up.

Pro tips for young gardeners

• Choose seeds with quick germination times.
• Use clear containers to watch root development – something that will keep the kiddos engaged in the process.
• Create a garden journal to track growth.
• Make watering and caring for plants a daily ritual.
• Celebrate every tiny sprout and milestone.

Our diverse climate offers the perfect playground for these rapid-growth plants. 

From coastal gardens to inland plots, these plants thrive with just a little love and attention. The goal isn’t perfect produce – it’s creating memories with your young ones. A slightly wonky radish or a leaning sunflower is still a triumph of nature and childhood wonder.For all your gardening needs – from quick-growing to the slower and steady plant options, your local Stodels Garden Centre has you covered. Shop seeds and seedlings, tools and everything in between.

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Whether you’re battling the Western Cape’s dry heat or Gauteng’s unpredictable thunderstorms, smart watering is the key to keeping your green sanctuary thriving.

Stick to these basic rules for watering to keep your garden happy and providing hours of fun and relaxation this summer. 

Rule 1: Strategically time your watering

Timing is everything when it comes to garden hydration. 

The golden hours for watering are between 4:00 and 6:00am – before the summer heat transforms your water into vapour. Early-morning watering allows moisture to penetrate deep into the soil, giving plant roots time to absorb it before the day’s heat sets in.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s better to water in the morning instead of the evening. Wet leaves overnight create a breeding ground for fungal diseases, and the cooler temperatures mean water can tend to sit on plant surfaces instead of being absorbed.

Rule 2: Understand the deep and infrequent principle

Forget frequent light sprinklings. 

The secret to robust, resilient plants is deep, infrequent watering. Aim to water 2 to 3 centimetres deeply, but only once or twice a week. This technique encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, creating plants that are more drought-resistant and stronger.

Think of it like training for a marathon. Short, frequent waterings create shallow-rooted plants that are essentially garden weaklings. Deep watering creates ‘plant athletes’ that can withstand temperature extremes and periods of limited moisture.

Rule 3: Mulch is your garden’s best defence

Mulch is the unsung hero of water conservation. 

A thick layer of organic mulch – think bark chips, compost, or dried grass clippings – can reduce water evaporation by up to 70%. It’s like giving your soil a protective blanket that keeps moisture locked in and temperatures down.

Apply a 5- to 7-centimetre layer around your plants, being careful to keep the mulch slightly away from plant stems to prevent rotting. This simple technique reduces water usage, suppresses weeds, and helps maintain a consistent soil temperature.

Browse our mulch options here.

Rule 4: Go indigenous and water-wise

Indigenous plants aren’t just a pretty face – they’re water-saving champions. 

Species like proteas, aloes and restios have evolved to handle our challenging climate and will reward you with minimal water requirements. 

These indigenous superstars are adapted to local conditions and can survive with significantly less water than exotic imports.

When planning your garden, prioritise water-wise indigenous plants. They’ll not only survive our harsh summers but will look absolutely stunning with minimal intervention.

Rule 5: Embrace technology and smart watering 

Invest in smart irrigation solutions that can cut your water usage by up to 50%. 

Drip irrigation systems, smart controllers and rain sensors can precisely manage your garden’s water needs, ensuring every drop counts.

For those in areas with occasional rainfall, consider installing a rainwater harvesting system. 

A 5 000-litre tank can be a total game-changer, capturing those precious afternoon thunderstorms for Gauteng gardens in summer and Cape gardens in winter, providing a sustainable water source for weeks to come.

Learn more about how to collect rainwater for plants here.

A final drop of water wisdom

Successful summer gardening is about adaptation and understanding your local environment. 

Whether you’re in a Cape Town courtyard or a Sandton suburban garden, these rules will help you create a resilient, water-wise landscape that thrives despite the challenges. If you’re even in need of tailored advice for keeping your garden water wise and thriving, chat with our helpful, friendly Consultants on Call, or get advice in-store.

Stay cool, stay hydrated – and may your garden do the same!

The post 5 Golden rules for watering your summer garden appeared first on Stodels.

Your garden offers the perfect playground for discovery, learning and fun. So, how can you make the most of the summer break with garden-based activities that will delight the kiddos?

Grow, grow, grow!

If we think adults love instant gratification, children love it tenfold. Luckily, our warm climate is perfect for rapid-growing plants. Try these exciting projects…

Plant microgreens in shallow trays and they’ll sprout within days. For something nostalgic: grow beans in clear jars with wet cotton wool to watch roots develop.

For the artists in your family, encourage the kids to start a cress head using an eggshell – they can draw faces on the shells. And for the kids who want to watch a flower bloom from scratch, plant marigold seeds – they germinate quickly and flower within weeks.

Create a pizza garden

Yes, you read correctly. Many of the ingredients that make pizzas so delicious can easily be grown at home. Transform a small patch or large container into a pizza garden! 

Plant:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Sweet basil
• Oregano
• Spring onions

Let your little ones tend their own pizza ingredients, then use their harvest for a home-made pizza party. In our summer heat, these plants will flourish with regular watering.

Nature’s art studio

Our gardens provide endless natural art materials. 

Get inspiration from crafts that you enjoyed growing up, like pressing colourful summer blooms and creating leaf prints with paint and interesting-shaped leaves.

For the younger kids, painting with mud and building fairy gardens with twigs, stones and petals can spark imaginations.

And for a twist on the usual garden accessory, make ‘wind chimes’ from seedpods and shells.

Wildlife watch

Summer brings abundant wildlife to our gardens. 

Engage your young ones by creating a simple bird feeder from pine cones and peanut butter. An instant bird magnet! Make your winged visitors feel extra welcome by making a shallow water source for them to cool off and clean in. 

Don’t chuck away overripe fruit; attract another winged beauty to your garden by setting up a butterfly feeding station with overripe apples, bananas and nectarines.

Edible garden adventures

Nothing excites children more than eating their own produce. Start these easy edibles:

• Strawberries in hanging baskets
• Cherry tomatoes in pots
• Baby carrots in deep containers
• Mint for homemade lemonade – yum!

The garden lab

Turn your garden into an outdoor laboratory where your kids can conduct their own experiments. 

Start by measuring and recording plant growth in different areas of the garden. Set up a simple experiment comparing plants in sun versus shade, or those receiving different amounts of water. 

A compost bin makes an excellent scientific study – children can observe how different materials decompose over time and learn about the cycle of nutrients. They’ll also discover the world of garden insects, learning to distinguish between helpful pollinators and garden pests.

Sensory activities

Creating a sensory garden experience opens up a world of discovery for your children. 

Plant aromatic herbs like lavender and lemon balm where they can brush past them to release their scents. Include plants with interesting textures – the soft, fuzzy leaves of lamb’s ear (Stachys Lanata) never fail to delight little hands, while succulents offer firm, smooth surfaces to explore. 

Add musical elements with wind chimes and ornamental grasses that rustle in the breeze. Complete the sensory experience with bright flowers in every colour of the rainbow, creating a feast for the eyes.

Safety first

Remember these essential tips:

• Always supervise garden activities
• Use child-safe tools
• Keep toxic plants out of reach
• Ensure regular sun protection and hydration
• Store garden chemicals safely away

Making memories

Garden activities create lasting memories and valuable life lessons. Children learn patience, responsibility and environmental awareness while having fun. They’ll discover where food comes from and develop a lifelong appreciation for nature.

Start with one or two activities and let your children’s interests guide you. Don’t worry about perfect results – the joy is in the journey. Visit your local Stodels garden centre for child-friendly tools, seeds and plants to start your holiday garden adventure today.

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Enter: guano, nature’s own super-fertiliser that’s been enriching soils for centuries. This seemingly humble substance, derived from seabird and bat droppings, holds the key to unlocking your garden’s full potential. Who knew? 

Unlike synthetic fertilisers, guano is completely natural and packed with essential nutrients that your garden or indoor plants crave. Its high nitrogen content promotes lush, green growth, while phosphorus supports strong root development and flowering. 

The balanced mineral content, including calcium and trace elements, makes it particularly well-suited to our often mineral-depleted soils.

Perfect for our growing conditions

Our climate, with its intense sunshine and variable rainfall patterns, demands special consideration when it comes to fertilising. Guano excels in these conditions because:

• It releases nutrients gradually, preventing the shock that can often come from chemical fertilisers.
  
• It improves soil structure, helping retain moisture during dry spells.
  
• It’s particularly effective in our typically alkaline soils.
  
• It supports beneficial soil microorganisms that thrive in our warm climate.

Environmental benefits

Using guano supports sustainable gardening practices. It’s renewable, biodegradable, and helps reduce our reliance on chemical fertilisers. 

Moreover, many local suppliers source their guano from carefully managed coastal areas, supporting conservation efforts.

How to use guano in your garden

For vegetable gardens: Apply a handful of guano around each plant at planting time, working it gently into the soil. For established vegetable patches, sprinkle guano between rows every six weeks during the growing season. Your tomatoes, peppers and leafy greens will reward you with abundant harvests.

For ornamental gardens: Mix guano into planting holes for new shrubs and perennials. For established flower beds, apply a light scattering around plants in early spring and again in midsummer. Roses particularly benefit from this treatment, producing more blooms with richer colours.

For container plants: Add one tablespoon of guano per five litres of potting soil when planting up containers. For maintenance, sprinkle a small amount on the soil surface every eight weeks during the growing season, watering well afterwards.

Top tips for success

• Always wear gloves when handling guano
• Apply guano in the cool of the morning or evening
• Water thoroughly after application
• Start with smaller amounts and observe your plants’ response
• Store unused guano in a dry, sealed container

Making the most of your investment

While you may notice that guano can cost more initially than synthetic fertilisers, its long-lasting effects and multiple benefits make it cost-effective over time. 

Plants grown with guano develop stronger root systems and better resistance to pests and diseases, reducing the need for additional treatments.

Be careful about too much of a good thing

Despite its many benefits, guano is highly concentrated. 

Over-application can lead to nutrient burn, particularly in young plants or seedlings. Always follow package instructions and err on the side of caution. If you’re growing acid-loving plants like proteas or ericas, use guano sparingly, as it can alter soil pH over time.

The natural choice

By choosing guano as your fertiliser, you’re not just feeding your plants – you’re building healthier soil, supporting sustainable practices, and working in harmony with nature.Whether you’re tending a small herb garden or managing extensive flower beds, guano offers a natural, effective solution that’s perfectly suited to our growing conditions. Visit your local Stodels garden centre to learn more about our range of guano products and start transforming your garden today.

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The good news is that with the right care and precautions, you can keep your terracotta pots in pristine condition for years to come. Here’s how to prevent them from cracking, and ensure that your plants thrive.

Why does terracotta crack?

Before learning about how to care for terracotta, it’s good to understand the basics of what makes up this popular pot material, and why it’s prone to cracking. 

Terracotta is a natural clay that is fired at high temperatures, making it porous, and allowing for good air circulation and moisture control. However, this porosity also means that terracotta can absorb water, which may lead to cracking if not managed properly. 

Cracking can occur due to temperature fluctuations, excessive moisture or poor handling. Once a pot cracks, it can weaken the structure and compromise the health of your plants.

Choosing the right location

While terracotta pots can withstand heat, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause them to dry out too quickly and crack. 

Position your pots in a spot where they receive partial shade during the hottest parts of the day. 

Also consider wind exposure. Strong winds can cause pots to topple over or chip. Place your pots in sheltered areas or use heavier bases to provide stability.

Pot prep

Before planting, consider sealing the interior of your terracotta pot with a waterproofing agent or a layer of plastic sheeting. This will help reduce moisture absorption, and therefore prevent any cracking. 

For extra protection, use a pot liner made from materials like coconut coir or landscape fabric. This allows water to drain while protecting the pot from excessive moisture.

Watering wisely

Terracotta pots can dry out quickly owing to their porous nature. 

Water your plants consistently, but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. This helps maintain a balanced moisture level and prevents stress on the pot. 

Applying a layer of mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and regulate temperature fluctuations within the pot. Organic mulches like bark chips or straw are smart choices.

Terrific terracotta through all seasons

In winter, terracotta pots are particularly vulnerable to cracking as temperatures plummet. If possible, move your pots indoors or into a sheltered area during cold spells. Alternatively, wrap them in bubble wrap or burlap for insulation. 

When moving pots from indoors to outdoors (or vice versa), do so gradually to prevent thermal shock. Sudden changes in temperature can cause the material to expand or contract too quickly, leading to cracks.

Handling your terracotta pots: dos and don’ts

When moving terracotta pots, always lift them rather than dragging them across surfaces. Dragging can create stress points that may lead to cracks over time. 

Inspect your pots regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Addressing small chips or cracks early can prevent further deterioration.

Choosing quality pots

Not all terracotta pots are created equal. 

Invest in high-quality pots that are thicker and more durable. At Stodels Garden Centres, you can browse a wide range of top-quality terracotta pots in all shapes, styles and sizes.

By following these practical tips, you can enjoy the beauty of terracotta without worrying about damage. With a little attention and care, your terracotta pots will remain vibrant homes for your plants for many seasons to come.

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