The Garden Diaries: New Zealand in November

Plant of the month: Petunias

For summer colour, petunias are star performers. They love a sunny position and grow well in pots, hanging baskets or in the garden.

For good results water regularly and remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and compact growth.

What else to plant

This month, plant rhododendrons too, vireya rhododendrons are a great option. Many have perfumed blooms and make excellent cut flowers. Plant in dappled shade, in well-drained soil and mulch to protect the shallow roots.

For North Island gardeners, it's a good time to plant gardenias. Known for their perfumed flowers and glossy, green leaves, gardenias like well-drained soil and prefer morning sun.

Hebes are also a good selection, with their spires of small flowers, which attract bees and other beneficial insects. These plants are hardy, like cool and temperate climates and grow well in coastal areas.

Looking for a sweet scented climber or ground cover, then star jasmine trachelospermum jasminoides is a sure bet with its glossy leaves and pretty white flowers.

Calibrachoas, also called  million bells, dianthus and impatiens, which grow well in a shady spot, will also put on a good show.

Don't forget edibles! Beetroot seeds are great to plant in November, they germinate better if soaked overnight. Cucumber and leek seedlings are good options too and radishes and rocket are great for summer salads. Sweet corn is better sown in a block, rather than a long row as this helps with pollination. 

Replenish the herb patch too as it's a great time to plant basil, coriander, parsley, rosemary, sage and thyme. Or why not plant them in some stylish, pretty pots, so they'll be ready in time to make terrific Christmas gifts?

Maintenance

This month don't skimp on the fertilising in the garden as everything is growing.

Every four weeks apply a tomato fertiliser to your tomatoes. Citrus are hungry, so keep the fertiliser up to them too.

Rainfall is often unpredictable in November, so keep an eye on the garden's watering needs. Plants dry out if they're under eaves or in pots.

Watch out for pesky snails and slugs. Lay baits to keep them under control.

As the weather warms, pests become more prevalent so keep an eye out for white fly and aphids. A blast with the hose can help keep them at bay.

Harvest

There's nothing better than eating produce fresh from the garden. In November it's time to harvest spinach, silverbeeet and spring onions. Strawberries are ripening so keep an eye on those. Pick lettuce and broccoli too.

Our perfect plant promise

Remember the Perfect Plant Promise. All our plants (except seedlings) are guaranteed for 12 months. If you're not 100 per cent happy, return your plant (with receipt or tax invoice) and we'll refund it.

Start planting today

Check out the wide range of plants available at your local Bunnings and bring your garden to life.