Spring in Martinborough is a masterclass in swift transitions. One day brings crisp blue skies, the next delivers biting rain, and right on cue, the infamous September winds arrive to test our stakes and our patience. Rather than waiting for the “perfect” day, embrace the mantra of gardening in any weather. Put on the extra layer, zip up the windbreaker, and get outside. The work we put in right now, regardless of what the sky is doing, sets the foundation for a resilient, productive garden that can withstand the hot, dry, and windy months fast approaching.
Our classic Wairarapa winds act like a hairdryer on bare soil, stripping away surface moisture before summer heat even sets in. Apply a generous 5–7 cm layer of organic mulch, such as pea straw, compost, or bark chip, over moist soil around fruit trees, shrubs, and vegetable beds. Working organic matter directly into veggie plots also builds soil structure, acting like a natural sponge to keep deep root systems hydrated.
September gales will find every weak stem in the garden if you don’t secure them first. Take the time to stake newly planted trees, broad beans, and tall perennials. Use flexible ties that allow slight movement, which encourages strong trunk growth without the risk of snapping. Setting up temporary permeable wind barriers or planting permanent windbreak hedging will also safeguard tender spring greens from harsh gusts.
While early spring soil temperatures are still waking up, plan for the long game. Direct-sow carrots, parsnips, and beets, ensuring seed beds stay damp despite drying winds. It is also the ideal moment to inspect hoses, fix leaky fittings, and lay down dripper lines before plants fill out and make installation tricky. With El Nino threatening a drought this summer, now is a great time to install rain harvesting systems while there are still rainy days ahead.
No matter what the forecast throws at us this month, consistent progress in the garden keeps us one step ahead. A little preparation in the unpredictable spring weather will reward you with a flourishing, drought-tolerant garden all summer long.
