Garden Tasks for June
June marks the beginning of winter in Melbourne, bringing frosty mornings and shorter days. While garden activity slows down, there are still important tasks to maintain your garden's health during the coldest month:
General Maintenance
Be cautious with watering as soil stays damp longer. Water only when necessary and avoid watering on frost-prone mornings.
Keep pathways clear and free from slippery moss and algae.
Continue collecting fallen leaves and adding them to compost.
Check plant ties and stakes to ensure they're secure against winter winds.
Planting
Plant bare-rooted trees, shrubs, and roses while they're dormant.
Continue planting winter vegetables like broad beans, peas, and brassicas.
Add winter-flowering plants such as hellebores, cyclamens, and winter roses for colour.
Plant rhubarb crowns and asparagus roots.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune deciduous fruit trees and vines during their dormant period.
Cut back perennials that have finished flowering.
Remove dead or diseased branches from trees and shrubs.
Clean up fallen fruit and leaves to prevent disease spread.
Lawn Care
Minimise foot traffic on frost-covered lawns to prevent damage.
Keep lawns clear of fallen leaves and debris.
Avoid mowing wet grass and raise mower height.
Pest Management
Check winter vegetables regularly for snail and slug damage.
Apply eco-oil to deciduous fruit trees to control overwintering pests.
Monitor for signs of fungal diseases in damp conditions.
Greenhouse and Indoor Plants
Conduct check on indoor plants and consider their maintenance needs. Repot where required.
Clean greenhouse glass to maximise light penetration.
Check heating and ventilation systems are working correctly.
Move frost-sensitive potted plants to protected areas.
Planning Ahead
Order seeds and plants for spring planting.
Maintain garden tools and clean them after use.
Plan structural garden projects for when weather permits.
While June brings challenging gardening conditions to Melbourne, it's an excellent time for garden planning and maintenance tasks. Use sunny winter days to tackle outdoor jobs, and remember that the quiet period of winter is setting the foundation for spring growth.