Is it Summer yet? (Survival tips & my new Diary)
Hi [Name]
In this week's Newsletter:
- Summer Plant Survival
- Keeping your potted plants happy.
- Jobs for January
- New Blog: My latest Plant Diary is live! Dirt Under the Fingernails.
Grouping plants.
Well, December started off looking like Summer, but lately, I’ve been reaching for the extra layers again! It certainly doesn't feel like beach weather when you’re out in the garden at the moment, but the wind is still doing its best to dry everything out.
Whether you're dealing with the cold snaps or the gusty winds, here are a few ways I’m keeping the plants happy right now:
Summer Plant Survival Tips
- Mulch is your best mate: Even if it's chilly, the wind strips moisture fast. A good layer of mulch or compost acts like a damp towel, keeping the roots protected.
- Deep soak vs. Light sprinkle: Don't let the cooler temps fool you. It’s better to give a good, long drink once or twice a week rather than a quick nightly spritz that barely touches the roots.
- Stake it out: The wind has been particularly mean lately. If it's rattling your taller plants, give them some support before the next big blow comes through.
Keeping your Potted Plants Happy
Plants in containers are the first to feel these weird weather swings. If your pots are looking a bit tired, try:
The weight test
- The "Weight" Test: Getting in the habit of picking up your pots, you will get to know the feel of a dry pot vs a wet one. Thirsty pots tip over easily in these gusts, so keep them damp for a bit of ballast.
- Group them up: Move your smaller pots together. They create their own little microclimate and help protect each other from the wind and the cold bites.
- Liquid Feed: Potted plants run out of "fuel" quickly. A weak liquid feed every fortnight will keep them lush while they wait for the real sun to return.
Grouping plants.
Jobs for January
• Harvesting: If you've got veggies on the go, pick them regularly to keep them producing.
• Trim your herbs: If your basil or mint is starting to flower, give them a haircut to keep the leaves tasting sweet.
• Deadhead & Snip: Spend a few minutes snipping off spent blooms and "leggy" bits to keep everything looking tidy.
• Watch for pests: Keep an eye out for aphids—they don't mind the cooler days. A quick blast with the hose usually does the trick if you catch them early.
Remember, a stressed plant is more prone to picking up pests like aphids or thrips. A little bit of TLC now keeps the bugs at bay!
My new garden Diary -
On the Blog: Dirt Under the Fingernails
I’ve started a new feature on the blog—Dirt Under the Fingernails
It’s where I’m jotting down exactly what I’m seeing and doing in the nursery and garden each week (including which extra layers I’m wearing!). If you've ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes, you can follow along with my notes there.
Merry Christmas!
P.S.
We will still be around over Christmas and New Year, but we will not be posting any plants out until the first full week of January (starting Monday the 5th). Happy to chat or have visitors most any time.
Posted: Tue 23 Dec 2025
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