Gardening in Waitaki May 6th 2026

With autumn more settled and fallen leaves gathering quickly, they may feel like a chore, but they are one of the most valuable resources in the autumn garden. Wet leaves from heavy dews, already beginning to break down, make excellent mulch; they enrich the soil naturally. While each tree sheds leaves to nourish its own roots, lawns should be kept clear, as heavy leaf cover blocks light and weakens grass. Instead, return them to the tree bases where they belong. As gardens transition into winter, layer compost generously as beds are cleared. Hold off on pea straw mulch until leaf fall is complete, and ensure soil is well watered before applying. I have been potting on seedlings and cuttings before growth slows. Newly potted plants will now require frost cloth protection overnight, removed during the day and replaced at dusk. Also, remove water trays from pots—soil will stay damp through winter, and excess water can lead to root rot or freezing. This is an ideal time to rejuvenate perennial beds. Lift and divide overgrown clumps, replanting only the youngest, healthiest growth from the outer edges. Many plants respond well to this, including asters, phlox, aubretia, hostas, grasses, and herbs such as sage and thyme. Rockery plants can also be divided now. Once replanted, apply a generous layer of compost to encourage root development and help insulate plants through winter. Deadhead dahlias, petunias, and geraniums to extend flowering until frost. Remove spent annuals and prepare beds for winter colour with primulas, polyanthus, pansies, and violas. Watch for self-sown seedlings like foxglove and lupin—these can be transplanted now to establish before winter. Hellebores (winter roses) should have old foliage removed to eradicate aphids that want to winter over and to showcase developing buds. In colder inland areas, leave some growth for frost protection, removing it later once the new growth has hardened. A light liquid feed can boost flowering if needed. Peonies are available for planting now. Choose roots with at least three eyes and plant shallowly, about 5–7cm deep, in a sunny, well-drained position. Once established, they can thrive undisturbed for decades. As I have mentioned before Lilies can now be lifted, divided, and replanted. Handle bulbs carefully, keeping fleshy scales intact and never allowing them to dry out. Cut old stems rather than pulling them away to prevent rot. Plant bulbs on a base of river sand and cover with compost enriched with blood and bone. May is the right time to plant tulip bulbs. Position bulbs at least 20cm deep in well-drained soil, ideally in a sunny or east-facing spot. Pre-chilling bulbs in the fridge for several weeks can improve performance, especially if soil warmth lingers. Lift lower branches on large trees to increase light on underplanting, trim new growth on wisterias, and if needing to trim hedges, do it now so the undergrowth can harden before the coldest months. Lawns: autumn sowing can still be done, with cooler conditions helping retain moisture for quick germination. vegetable garden: growth continues steadily after autumn rain. Harvest pumpkins and corn, allowing pumpkins to cure before storage. Continue planting winter crops such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, spinach, beetroot, and broad beans. This is also the final opportunity to sow carrots and establish onion sets for best results. Herbs: rosemary, sage, thyme, and rocket, will establish well if planted now. Fruit remains abundant: Apples should be picked for storage before birds take their share. Feijoas are ripening, along with NZ cranberries (Ugni), figs, walnuts, and hazelnuts—plenty to harvest and enjoy. In the berry patch, continue planting strawberries in raised, well-composted beds. Prune raspberries after fruiting by cutting back spent canes, allowing new growth to develop for next season. Cheers, Linda