Story: Preparing for the Changing Season
Episode: 6
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane
Air Date: 26th September 2026

Trevor shares some simple ways to keep the vegetable garden healthy, productive and ready for summer.

• Manage moisture – As the soil dries, applying a wetting agent can help irrigation water move evenly through the soil and reach plant roots.
• Mulch for healthier soil – A 10–15cm layer of composted straw mixed with well-rotted manure can help retain moisture, encourage healthy growth and improve soil health. Keep mulch away from plant stems.
• Replace lost nutrients – Vegetable gardens are highly intensive growing spaces, so nutrients need to be replenished regularly. Adding well-rotted manures can help build soil carbon and maintain healthy soil.
• Feed for sustained growth – A controlled-release fertiliser containing beneficial soil microbes can support continued plant growth and food production. Scratch the fertiliser into the topsoil and water it in to activate the microbes.
• Prune for productive plants – Spring is a great time to use the secateurs, particularly on woody herbs such as lavender and rosemary. Shaping them now encourages productive growth throughout summer.
• Water deeply – As irrigation resumes, aim for one to two deep waterings a week rather than frequent light watering. This encourages roots to grow deeper, helping plants cope with hot weather.