Planting in the Winter

Planting in the Winter

Have you ever heard that you shouldn’t plant in winter? This is a myth for most plants, particularly deciduous trees, shrubs and deciduous perennials. Prior to growing plants in pots, which started around 70 years ago, all plants were planted in the winter. Here are a few reasons why. 

Slowed Plant Growth
Firstly, let's delve into the slowed pace of plant growth in winter. On the surface, this may not seem like a good thing but it can be helpful for your garden. As the temperature dips, plants naturally slow their growth. This allows them to channel their energy into establishing a robust root system. The winter months can, therefore, be seen as a perfect period for planting. They get an excellent head start, preparing themselves to thrive in the coming months.

Protection against Pests and Diseases
Secondly, winter's chill can be a powerful ally in the fight against pests and diseases. A wide range of garden pests and diseases enter a dormant phase during winter. This temporary respite provides your freshly planted specimens an opportunity to settle in without facing constant onslaughts.

Natural Irrigation
The winter rains in many parts of New Zealand act as a natural irrigation system, particularly beneficial for the newly planted trees. They ensure that these plants have abundant moisture to establish their root systems.

Earlier Spring Results
Planting in winter is laying the groundwork for a captivating spring display. As temperatures rise, your winter-planted greenery will be primed to burst into vigorous growth. The garden, having had time to settle during the colder months, will present a spectacle of lush foliage and vibrant flowers, making all the preparation worth the effort.

Less Stressful
Another key advantage is the reduced stress on plants. Winter induces a dormant phase in many plants, where their metabolic activities, including growth, slow down. This means they're less susceptible to stress when transplanted as their systems are not in the midst of active growth. This dormancy protects them, allowing smoother transitions and better adaptation to their new environment.

Time Efficient
Winter planting can be a considerable time saver. By starting your gardening tasks in winter, you can enjoy the beauty of your garden in the warmer seasons, without the looming to-do list and the springtime rush. 

Winter is not the garden villain it's often portrayed to be. While it's important to note that some plants may be too sensitive to be planted in winter, for most it is the best time. Reach out if you would like advice around specific plants, our friendly customer service team will be happy to help.

 
Planting in the winter (left) and results in the summer (right)