Tending a garden in winter provides exercise for the body, food for the soul, and the promise of a beautiful spring. British horticulturist and garden designer Gertrude Jekyll said it best: “The lesson I have thoroughly learnt, and wish to pass on to others, is to know the enduring happiness that the love of a garden gives.”

If you’re in need of some winter gardening inspiration, read on…

Enjoy indigenous splendour: Introduce ericas, pincushions, proteas, crane flower and aloes into your garden. Planted in pots or beds close to windows, these beauties create a gorgeous display of vibrant flowers and can attract nectar-feeding birds.

Create a cottage-garden feel: Plant the confetti bush with its needle-like leaves, gentle fragrance and tiny pink or white flowers – or use the purple broom to create height and have cut flowers which last well in a vase.

Make the most of small spaces: Why not plant up containers to grow herbs and salad plants? Winter favourites include calendulas, sage, swiss chard and golden marjoram. Another visually appealing option is frilly, ornamental kale in shades of blue, pink and white.

Green up your home: Indoor container plants invite nature right into your home. Popular options include the bold indoor ficus with its variegated foliage and striking leaf design, the delicate maidenhair fern, or the easy-to-grow fishbone fern.

A beautiful garden takes many shapes and forms but always brings with it joy, creativity and purpose. As US author Alice Sebold once said, “I like gardening — it’s a place where I find myself when I need to lose myself.” Sounds about right, doesn’t it?

Winter gardening tips

• Plant annuals in anticipation of spring – think violas and pansies.
• Prune roses and summer and autumn-flowering shrubs in July.
• Place your outside containers under shelter if they contain tender plants.
• Add mulch to your flower beds for protection from the rain and cold.
• Feed anything that is in season, like winter vegetables, bulbs, annuals and even succulents.
• Top-up bird baths regularly for your feathered friends.