Growing Together at WISE
At WISE we’ve got a thriving community garden cared for by Shimmie. The kai we grow gets shared with the Waitara Food Bank to support local whānau. As the weather warms up, Shimmie could use a few extra hands in the garden during late spring and summer. If you’re keen to get outdoors, learn a few gardening tricks, and give back to the community, come along and join us.
Prepare Your Soil
Healthy soil builds a strong garden. Clear away weeds, add compost, and gently turn the soil to refresh nutrients. Well-fed soil means happy plants.
Choose Seasonal Plants
Spring suits veggies like lettuce, spinach, carrots, and beans, as well as flowers like marigolds, sunflowers, and nasturtiums. Pick varieties that fit your local climate.
Start Small
Don’t overwhelm yourself. Select a few easy crops or flowers to begin with. Consistency matters more than size when building garden success.
Water Wisely
Plants need regular water as the weather warms. Water in the early morning or late evening to prevent evaporation and keep roots nourished.
Mulch for Moisture
Spread mulch around your plants to hold in moisture, reduce weeds, and return organic matter to the soil.
Attract the Good Bugs
Welcome bees, ladybugs, and butterflies into your garden. Plant flowers alongside your veggies to bring in pollinators and protect your crops naturally.
Keep Learning
Gardening always teaches new lessons. Experiment, observe, and enjoy the process. Every season brings growth for both plants and people.
