Late winter in Morrinsville and the Piako region is the perfect time to maintain your garden, protect plants, and plan ahead for spring. The cold may still linger, but there are crucial tasks that help your garden thrive once the warmer weather arrives.

Instead of starting spring planting prep, this guide focuses on winter-specific care, protection, and maintenance, keeping your garden healthy through the final weeks of winter.

1. Protect Vulnerable Plants from Late Winter Weather

Even as winter winds down, occasional frosts or cold snaps can damage sensitive plants. Use:

• Mulch or straw around vegetable roots and tender perennials.

• Cloches or frost cloths to protect newly planted winter vegetables.

• Windbreaks for young shrubs or exposed areas.

This helps plants survive late winter while preparing for a strong spring start.

2. Maintain Winter Vegetable Crops

Many winter vegetables such as kale, spinach, carrots, and leeks are still producing. Focus on:

• Regular harvesting to encourage continued growth.

• Removing yellowing leaves to prevent disease.

• Fertilising lightly with organic compost or seaweed extract to support root development.

3. Winter Pest and Disease Management

Late winter can still bring pests and fungal problems. Check for:

• Slugs and snails hiding under mulch or debris.

• Powdery mildew or leaf spots on remaining plants.

Treat issues promptly using organic or eco-friendly solutions, ensuring your garden stays healthy before spring.

4. Hedge and Shrub Maintenance

While heavy pruning is reserved for early spring, light shaping of hedges and shrubs can be done now:

• Remove broken or diseased branches.

• Shape evergreen hedges to maintain structure.

This keeps your garden tidy and reduces work once spring growth accelerates.

5. Planning and Preparing for Early Spring

Even if you’re not planting yet, late winter is a good time to plan for spring planting:

• Decide which seeds and seedlings to grow indoors.

• Organise garden layouts, rotations, and companion planting.

• Prepare compost or soil amendments for early application.

These planning steps ensure you hit the ground running when spring arrives.

Conclusion

Late winter in Morrinsville, Te Aroha, Matamata, and the Piako region is an important period for maintenance, protection, and planning. By focusing on winter care rather than spring prep, you safeguard your plants, maximise vegetable production, and create a strong foundation for a vibrant spring garden.

Need help for preparing your garden ? 

Contact Kerepark Lawns and Gardens today to discuss your garden needs and get personalised guidance for a thriving spring garden

📞 021 778 091
📧 kereparklawns@gmail.com