But what is the correct approach?

Why winter gardening is different in South Africa

Winter is a special season that in South Africa is timed as a reset: saying goodbye to the season that was, going into hibernation to recharge and energise, and paving the way for a beautiful, blossoming spring. 

Winter gardening changes for a few reasons:

• Shorter days combined with lower light intensity means that photosynthesis (the system of processes that enable a plant to grow) slows down. Cooler temperatures slow plant metabolism, water uptake and nutrient absorption, leading to dormancy or sluggish plant growth.
• Linked to lower temperatures, there’s less energy available to convert water into vapour. And with fewer daylight hours and lower sun intensity, the normal evaporation a plant would experience reduces significantly.

Indoor vs outdoor plants in winter

Your garden and houseplants environment changes naturally during winter so you need to pay attention to help them survive the season and flourish 

For example, less light means your indoor plants need to be moved closer to light sources like windows and doorways. For all plants, evaporation slows down, which means you can adjust your watering schedule to be less frequent and adapt it to your plants’ needs.

Read on to learn the five common mistakes beginner gardeners make during winter, and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Overwatering your plants in winter

While peak summer heat demanded frequent watering to keep your lawn and plants alive, now that we’re transitioning into the chilly season, your plants don’t need as much water. 

A big mistake is not adjusting your watering routine, and risking overwatering your plants. This can will result in root rot.

Before watering, first check that the top layer of soil is dry, and after watering, insulate your plants with mulch. This will help your plants survive the cold season.

Mulching is an easy, cost-effective tactic you can use in the garden that helps conserve and trap in moisture and insulate your plant roots. This beginners guide to mulching is a great place to start to learn more about the benefits and how to get this right.

Mistake 2: Not adjusting light for indoor plants

The same way you switch your house lights on a bit earlier in the mornings and evenings, your indoor plants are also adjusting to the daylight hours, too.

Reposition them to ensure they get the light they need in order to grow and flourish.

The bonus is that this gives your indoor space a mini facelift – a welcome change that your plants will thank you for.

Mistake 3: Feeding plants incorrectly (or not at all)

Winter signals a slow-growth phase for your plants, so your feeding routine needs to be adjusted accordingly. 

Avoid the temptation to over-fertilise. The excess salts build up in the soil, burning roots and causing more harm than good. It’s better to feed lightly or not at all, resuming regular feeding as spring growth picks up.

Indoor plants need to be part of your plant-feeding plan just as much as your garden plants or lawn. Learn the basics of fertilising indoor plants for tips to help your houseplants thrive.

Mistake 4: Ignoring temperature drops and frost

This is particularly relevant to novice Highveld gardeners, as the region is more prone to extreme temperatures in winter.

The greatest risk of underestimating the winter temperatures is plant damage. Frost ruptures plant cells, causing blackened, mushy leaves and stems that often can’t recover, meaning all the care you’ve put into your plants during summer, and through autumn, goes to waste. 

Bear in mind that tender plants like succulents, citrus and tropical varieties are especially vulnerable.

Your first defence is keeping an eye on weather forecasts, and protecting your green darlings with these protective measures:

• Frost cloth 
• Moving pots indoors 
• Watering before a frost (which releases heat as it freezes) 

Mistake 5: Pruning at the wrong time

Don’t delay pruning till spring as your garden will feel the impact. This stimulates fresh, soft new growth that is highly vulnerable to late frost damage – undoing both the pruning effort and the plant’s stored energy reserves.

The rule of thumb is to keep a watchful eye on your plants’ growth; the right signal is when the plant is dormant and at least 4 – 6 weeks of frost-free weather lies ahead.

Here’s a regional guide:

• Johannesburg: Prune June to July. Winters are cold and dry with clear dormancy periods, making timing more straightforward.
• Cape Town: Prune July to August. The wet winter climate means timing around rain is important; avoid pruning in persistent damp, which encourages fungal disease.

Learn more about how to get winter pruning right in this guide.

How to keep your garden healthy through winter

A healthy garden starts with being mindful of our gardening habits.

By bearing in mind these common winter gardening mistakes, and changing your gardening routine with the seasons, you give your lawn, flower beds, trees, shrubs and more an a good chance of thriving through to spring. 

If you’re ever unsure about how to remedy a garden mistake – or perhaps need advice to avoid one – our friendly expert staff at Stodels Garden Centres have the answers.

The post Why your plants struggle in winter (and how to fix it) appeared first on Stodels.

But during the cooler months, this special indoor plant needs some extra care to ensure it survives and thrives. 

In this blog, we look at where to place your fiddle leaf fig in your home for optimal results, address common problems that fellow plant owners have (and how to prevent these), and share expert tips for indoor plants in South Africa.

Why light is the most important factor for fiddle leaf figs

To understand a plant’s ideal growing environment, it’s always good to go back to its roots (excuse the pun). 

In the case of the fiddle leaf fig: this plant evolved in bright, tropical rainforest environments, making intense light essential for photosynthesis and healthy growth. 

Without adequate bright, indirect light, they drop leaves, grow slowly, and become vulnerable to root rot and other stress-related diseases.

Have questions about your other indoor plants? We answer them in this Q&A.

How much light does a fiddle leaf fig need?

Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light for between 6 and 8 hours daily. No dark corners for these beauts!

Place yours near a south- or west-facing window, but shield them from harsh direct sun, which can scorch leaves. Rotating its pot periodically ensures even growth on all sides, especially in winter.

Where to place a fiddle leaf fig in your home

If light is key to your fiddle leaf fig’s happiness and growth, then this will be a factor when deciding where to place your plant in your home.

A bright living room or conservatory with consistent natural light will guarantee perfect light conditions.

Avoid positioning it near air vents, heaters or air conditioners, as they hate temperature fluctuations.

Consistency is also quite important for this plant. Once your fiddle leaf fig is happy in a spot, avoid moving it, as they’re sensitive to change and will drop leaves in protest.

Want to discover other plants that thrive in medium light? Here’s our guide.

Signs your fiddle leaf fig isn’t getting enough light

So, you’ve positioned your fiddle leaf fig in a new spot in your home – but something isn’t right. Here are signs that your plant isn’t getting enough light:

Leggy, stretched growth Long stems with wide gaps between leaves as it reaches toward light

Small new leaves Fresh growth comes in noticeably smaller than established leaves

Leaf drop Leaves yellow and fall, often starting with lower leaves

Dull, dark green colour Those familiar glossy green leaves have lost their vibrance, and are replaced with a dull version of themselves

Root rot risk increases Soil stays wet too long without light to aid evaporation, inviting fungal problems

We also unpacked six common houseplant problems here so that you can troubleshoot and get your plants from surviving to thriving.

How to keep your fiddle leaf fig thriving year-round

We’ve summarised your seasonal guide to a happy, healthy fiddle leaf fig plant so that you don’t need to do any guessing.

Spring & summer (growing season)

• Move closer to the window to maximise light
• Water when the top 5cm of soil is dry
• Feed monthly with a liquid fertiliser high in nitrogen
• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and boost light absorption
• Repot if roots are escaping drainage holes

Autumn

• Gradually reduce watering as growth slows
• Stop fertilising by late autumn
• Avoid moving the plant as light conditions shift

Winter

• Keep away from cold windows and draughts
• Water sparingly – overwatering in winter is the top killer
• Don’t fertilise – the plant is resting
• A grow light can help in darker months

All you need for your fiddle leaf fig to thrive

Whether it’s a beautiful planter, potting soil, fertiliser or just advice you need to keep your fiddle leaf fig growing abundantly, come visit us at your nearest Stodels garden centre. 

The post The ultimate fiddle leaf fig survival guide appeared first on Stodels.

These plants are so easily recognisable in the Cape floral kingdom and are worthy of a spot in your indigenous planting list. Read on to find out why, and how to care for them.

What are pincushions and cone bushes?

You may not know them by name, but if you’ve grown up or spent a lot of time in the Western Cape, you’ll easily recognise these indigenous shrubs. 

Pincushions (Leucospermum) and cone bushes (Isotropis or Leucadendron) are typical fynbos plants, native to the Cape Floristic Region and celebrated for their striking, long-lasting blooms. 

Being a proudly South African garden centre, we particularly love them for their hardy, water-wise nature, with the added bonus that they are irresistible to sunbirds and bees. Browse these other plants for more inspiration for gardening for bees.

It’s no wonder that these local gems thrive in our unique climate – making them a rewarding choice for any indigenous garden.

Why these indigenous plants thrive in South African gardens

Pincushions and cone bushes have evolved over thousands of years in the Cape’s unique fynbos biome, making them perfectly adapted to South African growing conditions. 

They thrive in the Cape’s long, dry summers and cool, wet winters – a climate that many exotic plants struggle to handle. 

Their roots are specially adapted to nutrient-poor, well-draining soils, meaning they need little fertilisation to flourish. 

They are also naturally fire-adapted and impressively drought-tolerant once established. Because they evolved alongside our local wildlife, they are also perfectly in tune with indigenous pollinators, making them an ecologically harmonious choice for any South African garden.

The best time to plant pincushions and cone bushes

The best time to plant pincushions and cone bushes is in autumn, from March to May. 

As the heat of summer fades and the winter rains approach, young plants have the chance to establish their root systems without the stress of scorching temperatures or drought. 

Spring planting is possible but will require more attentive watering until the plant is settled.

Ever wondered what the difference is between drought-tolerant and indigenous plants? We’ve done a comparison for you here.

Where to plant them (sun, soil & drainage requirements)

Light

Pincushions and cone bushes thrive in a sunny, open spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. 

Soil

Good drainage is important, as waterlogged soil is one of the fastest ways to lose these plants. 

Raised beds or slopes work particularly well, especially in areas with heavy clay soil. Avoid planting near lawn areas that receive regular feeding, as the nitrogen-rich fertiliser can damage their sensitive roots. 

They also do best away from alkaline soils. If you live in a limestone-rich area, amend your soil or plant your pincushions or cone bushes in containers.

Here’s a guide to improving your garden soil for the best results with your plants.

Watering and feeding guide

While these shrubs make for excellent drought-tolerant additions to your garden, give them a good start with the following watering and feeding guide:

Watering

• Water newly planted pincushions and cone bushes 2-3 times a week for the first season until established.

• Once established, reduce to watering every 2-3 weeks in summer.

• Water deeply and infrequently rather than little and often, encouraging roots to grow deeper.

Feeding

• These plants are adapted to nutrient-poor soils, so less is more when it comes to feeding.

• A light mulch of organic material such as wood chips around the base can help retain moisture and gradually enrich the soil naturally.

Why indigenous gardens are the future of sustainable gardening

Indigenous gardens are resilient gardens – which makes them key to sustainable gardening in South Africa. 

Pincushions and cone bushes need less water, less fertiliser and less intervention, lowering both the cost and the environmental footprint of maintaining a garden. 

Plus, a big bonus for nature lovers: Indigenous gardens actively support biodiversity, providing food and habitat for sunbirds, bees, butterflies and other pollinators that exotic plants cannot sustain.

Need to know more about pincushions and cone bushes? Visit your local Stodels Garden Centre, browse our wide range of pincushions and cone bushes and get expert advice.

The post Indigenous icons: A beginner’s guide to growing pincushions & cone bushes appeared first on Stodels.

Unlike high-maintenance ornamentals that demand constant pruning and feeding, low-maintenance shrubs are well-adapted to their environment, able to thrive with minimal watering, infrequent fertilising, and only the occasional trim. 

For us, this means choosing plants that are naturally suited to local conditions – whether that’s the summer rainfall of Gauteng, or the winter-wet climate of the Western Cape. These are plants that establish themselves with ease, shrug off periods of drought, and keep the garden looking good season after season.

Why low-maintenance shrubs are ideal for South African gardens

Our diverse and often demanding climate makes low-maintenance plants not just a convenience, but a practical necessity for most gardeners. 

Much of the country experiences prolonged dry spells, water restrictions, and intense summer heat that can quickly overwhelm plants that need constant attention and irrigation. Water scarcity is a very real concern, making drought-tolerant, self-sufficient plants a responsible choice as much as a practical one.

Beyond water, many of the soil types naturally found on our shores are nutrient-poor and rocky, ie conditions that exotic, high-maintenance plants struggle to cope with. 

Low-maintenance shrubs, particularly indigenous species, have evolved to handle these exact challenges – thin soils, fierce sun, seasonal drought, and even the occasional veld fire.

They also tend to support local biodiversity, providing food and shelter for birds, bees, and butterflies that are perfectly attuned to them. 

Are you a beginner gardener? Here’s your guide to low-maintenance plants to get you started.

The best low-maintenance shrubs to plant now

So, you want to plant some water-wise shrubs, but aren’t sure which to choose. Luckily, we’ve done the thinking for you. Here are five of our favourites:

1. Plumbago

A water-wise shrub of note, plumbago is virtually indestructible once established. 

It produces masses of delicate sky-blue flowers for most of the year and thrives in full sun with very little watering. It’s fast-growing, tolerates poor soils, and can be used as a hedge, a filler, or a sprawling backdrop shrub. 

Birds and butterflies love it, and it asks for almost nothing in return.

2. Agapanthus

A classic, agapanthus is as tough as it is beautiful. 

Its strappy green leaves and tall stems of blue or white flowers are a familiar sight in gardens across the country. It handles drought, poor soil and neglect with ease, and looks equally at home in a formal garden bed or a wild, naturalistic planting. 

Divide the clumps every few years and it will reward you indefinitely.

3. Spekboom

No list of low-maintenance shrubs would be complete without spekboom. 

This remarkable succulent thrives in hot, dry conditions and is extraordinarily forgiving – it can survive months without water and grow in almost any soil. 

Beyond its toughness, spekboom is a carbon-sequestering powerhouse and a favourite food source for birds and insects. It can be grown as a dense hedge, a container plant, or left to grow freely as a feature shrub.

4. Wild sage

Indigenous to the Western Cape, wild sage is a wonderfully aromatic, silver-leaved fynbos shrub that thrives in dry, sandy soils and full sun. 

Its unusual rust-brown and golden flowers attract sunbirds and bees, making it a brilliant choice for a wildlife-friendly garden. It is highly drought-resistant, needs virtually no fertilising, and only benefits from a light trim after flowering to keep it neat and bushy.

5. Ribbon bush

A versatile and underrated indigenous shrub, the ribbon bush produces stunning sprays of purple and white flowers in autumn and winter – exactly when most other plants are past their best. 

It grows happily in sun or semi-shade, tolerates a range of soil types, and requires very little water once established. It’s particularly useful for adding colour to shaded spots under trees, where many other shrubs struggle.

Indigenous vs non-indigenous shrubs: what to choose

The most practical approach is to lead with indigenous shrubs and supplement thoughtfully with non-invasive exotics where needed.

Start by identifying which biome your garden falls within – fynbos, bushveld, grassland, and so on – and prioritise shrubs that naturally occur in that biome.

From there, you can layer in non-indigenous species that complement your indigenous backbone without threatening it. For region-specific advice, chat with one of our friendly garden centre experts, or book a consultant-on-call for a consultation from the comfort of your home.

For more tips and inspiration for indigenous garden colour ideas, read this guide.

The post Low-maintenance shrubs and why you need them in your garden appeared first on Stodels.

Read on to learn more about the benefits of using compost in your garden.

What is compost and why does it matter?

Compost is a rich, crumbly material made from decomposed organic matter including kitchen scraps, fallen leaves and grass cuttings. 

When worked into your garden beds and borders, it works wonders for soil health by improving drainage in heavy clay soils, helping sandy soils retain moisture, and feeding the billions of beneficial microbes that keep your earth alive and thriving.

Think of compost for plants as a slow-release fertiliser that nourishes roots over time, rather than delivering a quick chemical hit. This nourishment comes with its own unique set of benefits. Here we unpack the top compost benefits.

Compost benefit 1: Improves soil structure and health

Garden compost improves soil by binding loose sandy particles together to retain moisture, while breaking up dense clay soils to allow better drainage and airflow. 

It feeds vital microorganisms that release nutrients, suppresses harmful pathogens, boosts earthworm activity, and gradually enriches soil with organic matter – building long-term fertility and resilience.

Looking for a beginner-friendly guide to composting? Read this.

Compost benefit 2: Boosts plant growth naturally

Compost feeds plants by slowly releasing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as it breaks down – without the harsh effects that can be associated with some synthetic fertilisers. 

It improves root development by creating loose, well-aerated soil, helps retain moisture during dry spells, and encourages beneficial microbes that protect against disease. 

The result? Stronger, healthier plants that grow more naturally and sustainably.

Compost benefit 3: Helps retain soil moisture

We know that in our unique and varied landscape, many regions experience hot summers, irregular rainfall and periodic drought. Because compost acts like a sponge built into soil, it caters to the unique needs of plants across these regions.

For example, in sandy soils, which drain too quickly, compost binds particles together to improve water retention.

In clay soils, on the other hand, it opens up the structure so water is absorbed more evenly rather than pooling on the surface.

The practical benefits are clear: gardens need less frequent watering, which saves time, reduces water bills, and is better for our environment. 

Mulching is another way to trap moisture into the ground and reduce your water bill. Learn more about this water-saving hack with our beginner’s guide to mulching.

Compost benefit 4: Reduces the need for chemical fertilisers

Because compost releases elements as it breaks down, it feeds plants naturally over time. 

It also improves soil biology, helping roots absorb nutrients more efficiently – reducing dependence on costly, harsh chemical fertilisers that can damage soil health in the long term.

Compost benefit 5: Encourages healthy microbial activity

Simply put, compost is a thriving ecosystem. 

When you add it to your soil, you’re introducing and feeding billions of beneficial microorganisms that are essential to a healthy garden.

These microbes break down organic matter into simpler compounds, releasing nutrients in a form that plant roots can actually absorb. 

Compost also provides the carbon-rich food source that microbial communities need to survive and multiply. As their populations grow, they outcompete harmful pathogens, suppressing soil-borne diseases naturally.

Earthworms are drawn to compost-rich soil, too, and as they move through it they aerate the ground and leave behind nutrient-dense castings that further feed the microbial web.

How and when to apply compost in South African gardens

Timing your compost application well is important. There are two ideal windows:

1. The start of spring, just before the growing season kicks in: this gives plants a nutrient boost right when they need it most. 

2. In autumn: adding compost helps replenish soil that has been depleted over summer and protects it through the cooler months.

Dig down to it

The most common method to apply compost is by digging it into your beds before planting. 

Work a generous layer of around 5 to 10cm into the top 20 to 30cm of soil. This gets it close to the root zone where it does the most good.

For established plants and trees, spread compost as a top dressing around the base, keeping it a few centimetres away from the stem or trunk to avoid rot. Over time, rain and earthworms will draw it down into the soil naturally.

For your lawn, a thin layer of finely textured compost can be spread across the surface and lightly raked in, improving the soil beneath without smothering the grass.

For vegetable gardens, it’s worth adding compost at the start of each new planting cycle to keep soil consistently fertile. In frost-free regions like the Western Cape, where gardens grow year-round, light applications every few months will maintain soil health continuously.

Keen to make your own compost? Use this guide.

If you have specific questions about using compost in your garden, our garden centre experts are ready to assist. Visit your nearest garden centre today and take the step to better soil and garden health.

The post Benefits of using compost in your garden appeared first on Stodels.

Read on to find out what water-smart gardening solutions you can introduce in your garden to help it survive summer.

Why water-smart gardening matters in February

February in South Africa means one thing in your garden: the ultimate pressure test to beat the heat and survive. 

This makes February one of the most important months to invest in water-smart gardening habits so that everything from your lawn to your flower beds and kitchen garden can survive the heat spell, and you don’t get a nasty surprise when your water bill arrives. 

Even beyond your own home, water-smart gardening is key to overall sustainable gardening, ensuring this precious resource is harvested, stored and used efficiently.

How often should you water your garden in summer?

To encourage deeper root systems in your garden, it’s better to aim for 2-3 times per week of deep watering rather than daily light watering. How often you water your garden is also influenced by these other factors:

Your regional climate

Gauteng’s dry heat, for example, differs from the Western Cape’s hot, bone-dry summers. 

Soil Type

Sandy soil drains quickly and may need watering every 2-3 days, while clay soil retains moisture longer and can go 4-5 days between watering. 

It’s best to know the type of soil your garden has to plan your watering schedule around.

Plant Types

Established indigenous plants and succulents might only need weekly watering, while vegetable gardens and new plantings need more frequent attention (every 1-2 days during heat waves).

Mulch coverage

Well-mulched gardens can often go twice as long between watering sessions.

Smart watering techniques that actually work

Seasoned gardeners swear by these smart yet simple summer watering tips for a flourishing summer garden:

Slow soak method

Water slowly and deeply so moisture penetrates 15-20cm into the soil. 

Use a drip irrigation system, soaker hoses, or simply turn your hose to a trickle at the plant’s base for 10-15 minutes. 

New to irrigation? This practical guide to irrigation for beginners is worth a read.

Morning watering

Watering early means less evaporation loss, plants have moisture to cope with the day’s heat, and foliage dries quickly (which reduces the risk of fungal disease). 

Evening watering is your second-best option, but avoid midday watering when you can lose up to 50% of water to evaporation before it even reaches the roots.

The finger test before watering

Push your finger 5-7cm into the soil near your plants. 

If it feels moist, skip watering that day. If it’s dry, water deeply. This prevents overwatering (which wastes water and can cause root rot) and ensures you’re only watering when plants actually need it. Be flexible with your watering schedule and work with the varying conditions day by day.

Irrigation solutions for efficient water use

The most efficient approach to water-smart gardening in summer often combines multiple solutions. Here are some of the best trusted options.

Drip irrigation systems are ideal for vegetable patches, flower beds, and established shrubs, and are considered the gold standard for water efficiency. While sprinklers can be wasteful through immediate water evaporation, drip systems waste almost nothing.

Smart irrigation controllers replace standard timers and adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, soil moisture and even seasonal plant needs. Some connect to weather stations or apps, so your system automatically skips watering after rain or during cooler spells. 

Rainwater harvesting with irrigation integration involves connecting rainwater tanks directly to your irrigation system with a pump. During summer dry spells, you’re using stored rainwater instead of municipal supply. Pair with a changeover valve so the system switches to mains water only when tanks run low. For more on collecting and storing rainwater, read this guide.

Another environmentally friendly option is using greywater by ​​redirect water from your washing machine, shower or bathroom basin to irrigate gardens (but just be careful to avoid edible crops). 

Micro-sprinklers with timers are better than traditional sprinklers, these low-flow options deliver targeted watering to specific zones. Add a timer so watering happens at optimal times (early morning) even when you’re not home. A sprinkler attachment like this micro sprayer head delivers controlled water distribution, ensuring optimal moisture levels for your plants while minimising waste.

Water-smart gardening checklist for February

When in doubt, you can count on these habits for a water-smart garden at the height of summer:

Mulch heavily around plants: Apply a 5-10cm layer of organic mulch to keep soil cool, retain moisture and reduce evaporation during the peak summer heat.

Deadhead and prune spent blooms: Remove faded flowers from your water-wise plants to redirect energy into healthy growth rather than seed production, keeping them looking fresh through late summer.

Check your irrigation system: Inspect drip lines and sprinklers for leaks or blockages, and adjust timers to account for February’s intense heat while avoiding water waste.

Group thirsty plants together: Create hydro-zones in your garden by clustering plants with similar water needs, making it easier to target irrigation where it’s truly needed.

Happy gardening!

The post Water-smart gardening solutions for hot summer gardens appeared first on Stodels.

To increase your chances of pollinators becoming frequent fliers in your outdoor sanctuary, it helps to know the best flowering shrubs for biodiversity, garden design ideas for pollinators and, more specifically, what flowers attract butterflies.

We answer these and other questions in this guide to butterfly plants in South Africa, and how to create a butterfly garden.

Butterfly-friendly shrubs for South African gardens

Nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing the pollinator shrubs you’ve planted and tended to in your garden not only flourishing, but attracting the flutter of butterflies and other insects. 

If you’re not sure which shrubs seasoned gardeners count on to draw these winged beauties in, pick from this list of shrubs that provide nectar for butterflies:

Plumbago

This shrub works particularly well as a vibrant border along pathways or garden beds, adding structure and colour to your landscape. It’s versatile, too, also ideal grown in a container on patios or balconies, where its cascading branches can create striking visual displays.

To get the most out of your plumbago, ensure it gets 6 – 8 hours of sunlight daily, and keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained.

Polygalas

One of the more colourful pollinator plants for summer, polygalas are easy-to-grow, low-maintenance, water-wise plants that provide a dazzling display for many months of the year. 

This shrub is ideally planted in difficult areas of the garden that change from full sun to semi-shade with the seasons, and sprouts beautiful flowers.

Wild rosemary

This shrub is particularly suited to the dry garden, making it an excellent addition to your water-wise garden. It’s an aromatic, evergreen shrub with arching branches clothed with needle-like, grey-green leaves. 

Blooming from winter to summer, a profusion of small, purple-eyed, white flowers cover the foliage. Besides attracting butterflies, wild rosemary is also known as a bee magnet.

Learn more about gardening for bees.

Lavender

A classic, this list wouldn’t be complete without one of the easiest and most iconic shrubs grown in South African gardens: lavender.

Another drought-resistant shrub, this hardy herb has slender grey-green foliage and elegant pale purple flower spikes that attract bees and butterflies.

Indigenous plants that attract butterflies

While plumbago and polygala are indigenous shrubs that attract butterflies into the garden, there is a whole host of other indigenous plants that can draw beautiful winged insects in.

Gazanias add a beautiful splash of colour as a groundcover thanks to its low growth habit and dense foliage. On the other hand, another one of the best plants to attract butterflies, wild verbena grows about 40cm high, producing small purple and pink flower clusters on tall stems that attract butterflies.

Garden design ideas for pollinators

Different regions support different species of butterfly, so choosing plants native to your specific area will attract local butterfly populations most effectively.

Get some inspiration with these garden design ideas to create a pollinator paradise:

Layout and structure

Form pollinator pathways by creating drifts or curves of the same plant species rather than single specimens. Pollinators navigate more easily when they can see large patches of colour from a distance.

Layered heights

Design in tiers with groundcovers, mid-height perennials, shrubs and small trees. This creates a diverse habitat and allows pollinators to forage at different levels.

Learn how to attract birds to your garden using indigenous shrubs.

Border gardens

Line pathways and edges with continuous ribbons of nectar-rich flowers. This creates ‘flight corridors’ that guide pollinators through your space.

Want to make your garden smell irresistible to pollinators passing through? Here’s a guide to scent-sational gardening.

Colour blocking

Group plants in bold colour blocks rather than mixing randomly. Butterflies particularly love purple, pink, yellow and orange blooms clustered together.

Seasonal succession

Plan for continuous blooms from early spring through autumn. Include early bloomers like bulbs, summer stars, and late-season flowers like sedums.

Get ready to welcome your new winged garden friends

Armed with this guide, the friendly expert assistance of our in-store Stodels staff, and a range of trees, shrubs, groundcovers and vines that butterflies will instantly gravitate towards, you’ll be marvelling at the flutter of these delicate winged insects through your garden paradise in no time.

Happy planting!

The post Butterfly haven: The best shrubs to attract summer visitors appeared first on Stodels.

But now you’re finding the relaxation and enjoyment of your summer garden being dampened by the looming reality that you won’t be around to keep it in shape when you go away for the holidays. Relatable? You’re not alone. 

With the summer heat reaching its peak, holiday plant care is essential, to help your plants’ chances of survival, and avoid the disappointment of returning home to droopy, wilting or even dried up plants. 

Read this guide to learn everything from how to keep plants alive while on holiday to how to prevent plants from drying out, and tips for watering while away.

How to keep plants alive while on holiday

Your home gardening maintenance plan for while you are on holiday depends on how long your trip is.

For shorter trips, watering plants long and deep and moving them to a cooler spot if they’re usually in full sun could be enough to help them survive your absence for a couple of days. 

Do this as close to your departure as possible to shorten the amount of time between watering. Be sure to avoid overwatering, though – soggy soil is an invitation for root rot.

For longer trips, explore hiring a plant sitter or asking someone to visit your home andwater your plants every 2 – 3 days, as well as move any plants that are struggling in the heat to a cooler spot, giving them a greater chance of survival.

If you’re worried about the inconvenience or cost of hiring someone to help with holiday plant care, there are some creative ways you can ensure your garden and houseplants handle the heat and thrive in your absence.

Tips to prepare your garden before vacation

It’s the season where your garden flourishes under care, but when you’re on holiday, and upkeep is on pause, it can take on a different character, and you may return to some unwelcome surprises.

Check off this list before you hit the road to ensure you come back to a healthy garden:

• Pick all ripe vegetables and fruit. Overripe produce attracts pests and disease.
• To lower the risk for disease or the spread of disease, remove any diseased or damaged plant material or foliage.
• Deadhead flowers to prevent plants from going to seed.

Waterwise vacation gardening tips:

• Mow your lawn short before you go, but keep it long enough for it to retain moisture. Learn more about creating a lush summer lawn here.
• Prune back fast-growing plants to lower water demands. Browse tools.
• Apply a thick layer of mulch around plants to trap in moisture. 
• Weed your garden thoroughly; weeds compete for water, and you want this precious resource to be available to your lawn, shrubs and flower beds. Win the war on weeds with this guide.

What to do with houseplants before you travel

Indoor plant care while travelling should be carefully thought out and planned so that you can holiday with peace of mind.

If you’ll be travelling for more than a couple of days, DIY watering systems for plants make for a great watering hack for vacation plant care.

Fill plastic bottles with water, poke small holes in the cap, and insert upside-down into the plant soil. 

You can also make DIY wicks using cotton rope – place one end in a water reservoir (like a bottle or bowl) and bury the other in the soil.

Alternatively, use self-watering globes or spikes that slowly release water. Explore irrigation tools and equipment here.

Low-maintenance plants for summer holidays

If you’re looking to spruce up your home or garden just before going on holiday, add green with these low-maintenance plant options:

• Snake plant
• Aloe vera
• Spider plant
• Philodendron
• ZZ plant

Holiday with peace of mind – and return to a beautiful garden

With these tips, you can confidently go away on your summer break and return to a home and garden that is not only surviving, but thriving. 
Browse tools, mulch, irrigation systems, low-maintenance plants and more at your nearest Stodels Garden Centre; and if you have questions, speak to our friendly in-store experts to guide you in the right direction.

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In this guide, we walk you through the basics of how to plant a tree, with tips to ensure you give it the TLC it needs to thrive – from watering and staking, to mulching and other aftercare steps to take.

Ready to explore, step by step, how to plant a tree in South Africa? You’re in the right place.

How to choose the right tree for your garden

Carefully selecting a tree for your garden is one of the most important steps of tree planting in South Africa. There are a few reasons for this:

Size matters

If you have a smallish garden, a tree that grows to a mature height of 10 metre is probably not the best choice. Ask a horticulturist at one of our garden centres to guide you on how big you can expect a tree to grow before buying it.

Roots and all

Consider the type of soil in your garden, as this will determine which types of tree are likely to thrive and quickly develop roots there. The three main types of soil common in South African gardens are sandy, clay and loam soils.

• For a garden with sandy soil, trees whose root systems need good drainage and aeration, and don’t demand high nutrient content are best suited.

• If your garden has clay soil, it can support trees whose roots need soil with good water retention and minimal aeration.
  
• Gardens with loam soil (the ideal balance) retain more water than those with sandy soil, without becoming water-logged. This type of soil is rich in nutrients, ideal for trees that especially need this.

If you want to plant your tree next to a wall or paving, it’s best to choose a tree with a non-invasive root system.

For households with little ones, you may want to avoid a tree with thorns. With that said, thorns can be an advantage if used as an extra security provision if the tree is planted next to a boundary wall.

Read this guide for some easy-to-grow tree options for beginners.

Soil prep for clay vs sandy soils

This is an important consideration, as it determines whether you need to use compost, bonemeal and mulch when planting trees.

Because clay soil is made up of fine particles that compact easily, it’s important to work in some organic matter like compost to improve the soil’s aeration so that your tree’s roots can grow freely and access the moisture and nutrients they need to establish themselves.

On the other hand, sandy soil has good drainage, but also comes with the downside of poor nutrient retention. Incorporating organic matter like compost will act like a sponge in the soil, increasing its ability to retain moisture and nutrients.

How big should the planting hole be?

Dig a shallow, wide planting hole (three times wider than deep).

Up to 80% of a tree’s roots spread out in the top metre of soil. Most of the tree’s roots are shallow and they need good aeration and water. If they are trapped too far down, they can suffocate.

Another danger of planting a tree in a hole that is too deep is that the bark gets covered with the moist soil and it, too, can suffocate and rot.

Step-by-step how to plant a tree in South Africa

Follow these steps once the planting hole has been prepared:

Step 1: Handle the tree with care. Pick it up by the base, and not the trunk. The trunk flare (the base of the tree where the roots spread out) should be visible after the tree has been placed in the hole.

Step 2: Before placing the tree root ball in the centre of the planting hole, gently loosen the roots. Trees in containers often become ‘root-bound’, with roots circling the inside of the pot. If planted this way, the roots will continue to grow in a circle and eventually ‘girdle’ the trunk, choking off the flow of water and nutrients.

Once you have placed the loosened root ball in the planting hole, fill the hole with the ‘native soil’ that you dug out (with some organic matter incorporated into it, if necessary). Take care not to let air pockets form. To prevent air pockets, add a third of the soil, water well, allow the water to drain and add another layer, continuing until the soil is finished.

Steps 3: Stake the tree on both sides, if necessary.

Step 4: Place mulch around the tree, but keep the mulch at least 3 centimetres from the bark of the tree.

How much water does a new tree need?

Most expertise suggest watering your tree once a week to help it settle into its new home and flourish.

Ready to pick a tree perfect for your garden?

With this guide, you have the basics in place to plant a tree and bring hours of joy to your time in the garden. Remember that you always have expert help on hand with our expert consultants in-store. Browse our selection of trees online* (*Western Cape only), or check out our range in-store.

For help planting your tree, why not try our consultants-on-call service? Ensure the best choice of tree for your garden, and expert guidance for the best results by booking a session.

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With some creativity and the right indoor gardening tips, you can transform your living area into an urban gardening sanctuary. Apartment gardening can be just as fun as nurturing an outdoor space; you just need to know how to make it work for you.

Read on to find out the best plants for small apartments in South Africa, tips for small space gardening, and creative ideas for making apartment gardening work for you.

Balcony garden ideas

If you are lucky enough to have a balcony, use the space to grow your own little oasis to enjoy with your morning cup of coffee.

DIY vertical garden for apartments

If the bare wall of your balcony gets good light during the day, it’s the perfect area to attach a trellis so you can grow creeper plants like star jasmine, mandevilla splendens or clematis. Their blooms will elevate the feel of what could otherwise be quite an ordinary space.

Pot your chosen creeper plant in a big enough pot or trough at the base of the trellis, and as it grows, guide it to ‘creep’ along the trellis and create a ‘green wall’.

Creativity with balcony railings

Looking for a bit more privacy in your balcony area?

Strategically positioned planters can take care of that. Use cable ties and metal ‘S’ hooks to hang basket planters along the edge of your balcony railing, prettifying your outdoor sitting area, and creating some coverage.

Here’s more inspiration for gardening in pots.

How to grow a garden without a balcony

This is probably the greatest hurdle that city dwellers face when looking to nurture their green thumb in a high-rise – gardening without a balcony. Good news: there is a range of small space gardening ideas for renters that don’t require a balcony.

Herbs to grow on a windowsill

The easiest way to start experimenting with apartment gardening is with an indoor herb garden.

With some good natural light, whether on a windowsill, shelf or mantel, you can add a pop of green to your space, and save on your groceries, too.

Start growing food indoors with these easy indoor herbs for beginners:

• Parsley
• Rosemary
• Chives
• Mint
• Coriander
• Sage
• Thyme

Plants to grow outside your apartment entrance

Depending on how much sunlight your front door gets (does it face an exterior or interior passage in your building?), you can style a collection of pot plants just outside your apartment to give it that unique touch of style.

Petunias are a great colourful option if your front door gets lots of sun, as are lavender, salvia, gazanias and marigolds.

Star jasmine works as a beautiful shade-seeking creeper plant to add interest to your front door. Another shade-loving option are hydrangeas, if you have enough space for them.

Apartment grow lights and watering tips

Maybe some areas of your apartment don’t get a lot of light for a portion of the day. This can work if you add low-light plants to these areas.

Here are five great choices for low-maintenance apartment plants that thrive in darker indoor conditions:

• Pothos – ideal for your bedroom or bathroom
• Spider plant – ideally positioned high up on a shelf in your apartment
• Snake plant – best for your bedroom, as it is a great air filter
• Peace lily – great added to any area you spend a lot of time in, to help lower stress
• Fern – perfect for a humid area like the bathroom

If you’d like to branch out, investing in some grow lights could open up your options to add more variety to your indoor plant garden.

They come in different styles: some with a stand, others suspended from a shelf above your plants. With modern grow lights, you can toggle between various settings (light brightness, timing, height), to ensure your indoor plants get the best care.

Small-space gardening hacks

Keep these pointers in mind when you’re deciding where to grow your indoor plants in your apartment, to ensure best results:

• South-facing windows are best.
• Use a wicking system (yarn or cotton string between a water source and soil).
• Combine plants with similar needs in one large container (for example, basil with cherry tomatoes).

Ready to grow your apartment garden?

Don’t let apartment living put you off from developing your green thumb and enjoying all the benefits of being a plant parent.

With these apartment gardening ideas, the right tools and accessories, and tips from our expert in-store staff, you’ll be well on your way to being a proud apartment gardener.

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