Page 22 - Waterfall City Issue 8 August 2025

Waterfall City Landscaping

Trees and shrubs wrapped in crop cover for the winter. Here, the African Beetle larvae feast on Geranium roots in June.

weeks and that water is available to
apply directly after fertilisation.

Replant and replace:
• Identify plants that didn’t survive
and replace them with cold-hardy
varieties suited to Gauteng. Your
local nursery will be able to guide
you towards the correct decision.
• Consider native plants or those
with proven winter resilience to
reduce future losses.

Support trees and shrubs:
• Some species are more vulnerable,
and it is advised to wrap them
with crop cover towards the end
of May, early June. Do note this for
next winter.
• Stake or brace young trees
damaged by wind to stabilise
them as they recover.
• For shrubs with split bark, clean
cuts around wounds and monitor
for infection; severely damaged This illustration shows the life cycle of an African Beetle, a very popular yet problematic insect in
shrubs may need replacement. Gauteng. The chart indicates that September is the best time to spray systemic insecticides before the
beetle can lay eggs. Source: https://www.dairynz.co.nz/media/v2ylcs33/1-29_black_beetle_aug_2018.pdf
Monitor for pests and
diseases: Plan for future winters:
• Cold-stressed plants are more • In late autumn, apply mulch, wrap Note: Be patient, as some plants
susceptible to pests and diseases. sensitive plants, or use burlap screens like perennials and bulbs may
Inspect regularly for signs like to protect against future cold snaps. take weeks to show recovery. If
discoloured leaves or insect • Choose planting sites with good you’re unsure about specific plants,
activity and treat promptly with drainage and wind protection to share details or photos with a local
organic or chemical controls as minimise winter stress. nursery or garden service.
needed.

20 Waterfall City Issue 8 2025