Noticing your veggies or seedlings stalling in the colder months?
You’re not alone — and it’s not your soil or your skills. It’s the season.
Here’s what’s going on 👇
❄️ Why Winter Slows Growth
🧊 Cooler Soil = Sluggish Roots
Roots operate best when soil temps are warm. In winter, cold soil slows nutrient uptake and stops roots from stretching out. That means slower growth above ground too.
🌤️ Shorter Days = Less Energy
Less daylight means less photosynthesis. With fewer hours to make their own food, plants grow slower and focus on survival instead of pushing new growth.
💨 Cold Air & Frosts = Recovery Mode
Cold winds and morning frosts damage tender leaves. The plant has to put energy into healing, not growing.
💧 Reduced Water Demand
Most plants draw less water in winter, so overwatering is a real risk — especially in pots or compact soils.
✅ How to Keep Things Looking Healthy
🪴 Go Easy on Fertiliser
Plants aren’t feeding heavily right now, so ease off on high-nitrogen fertilisers — especially for leafy crops or ornamentals. Overdoing it can cause root burn or soft, frost-prone growth.
👉 Use a gentle liquid feed every 3–4 weeks if needed, or switch to a slow-release organic fertiliser suited for winter crops.
🌿 Mulch for Warmth
A layer of mulch helps keep the root zone a few degrees warmer and reduces temperature swings. Bonus: it cuts back on weeds and holds moisture.
💨 Protect from Wind & Frost
Use cloches, fleece, or plant guards to protect young or sensitive plants. Even placing them near a wall can help buffer cold snaps.
🚿 Water in the Morning
Water early in the day to avoid overnight cold damage and reduce fungal issues.
🌱 Plant What Loves the Cold
Lean into winter winners: broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, kale, onions, garlic, peas, broad beans and rocket. They thrive when others struggle.
👨🌾 Final Tip from the Farm:
Winter isn’t about booming growth — it’s about holding steady.
Focus on maintenance, not miracles. Come spring, your plants will bounce back full throttle — and the groundwork you do now will pay off big time.
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