April in the Wairarapa is arguably our most atmospheric month. The Martinborough vines are turning gold, and the air has a definite chill that signals it’s time to move from “maintenance mode” into “winter prep.” While the pace of growth slows down, the decisions we make in the garden over the next few weeks will define how our spring looks.
If you haven’t finished clearing your summer debris, now is the time to be firm. Pull out the last of the blackened tomato vines and zinnia stalks to prevent pests from overwintering in the soil.
Instead of leaving those beds bare to the elements, tuck them in with a thick layer of pea straw or mulch. This not only suppresses weeds but keeps the soil temperature stable as we head toward our first real frosts.
If you have space, a late sowing of broad beans or lupins will act as a “green duvet,” fixing nitrogen into the soil for your heavy-feeding spring vegetables.
For those who love a spring display, April is the golden window for bulbs. Whether you are tucking daffodils into the lawn or potting up tulips and freesias, ensure they are planted at a depth of roughly two to three times the bulb’s height.
Our stony Martinborough soil can dry out even in autumn, so if the rain stays away, give your new plantings a deep soak. Aim to do your watering in the morning now; with evening temperatures often dropping toward 10°C or 12°C, morning watering allows the foliage to dry off and prevents fungal issues during the damp nights.
In the vegetable patch, focus on the “hardy heroes.” Garlic should be going into well-drained soil now, along with shallots and onions. It is also the perfect time to plant out your winter brassicas like kale and Brussels sprouts, as they appreciate the coming cold to sweeten their flavour. Keep an eye on your citrus—as the fruit begins to colour, a final liquid feed of seaweed or fish emulsion will help them through the winter. Enjoy these crisp April days; there is nothing quite like the smell of damp earth and woodsmoke to remind us why we love gardening in the valley.
