Winter isn’t usually associated with pottering about in the garden. However, it’s possible to grow, harvest, and share a bustling winter crop.

As we celebrate Matariki and the beginning of the Māori New Year, for winter gardeners it’s the right time to cultivate crops that thrive in cooler temperatures and to prepare the soil for future planting. 

There are many oral histories on Matariki – one of the main ones is Matariki and her children. Two of the children we are learning about at Ryman are Tupu-a-Rangi who is all about everything in the sky, and their twin Tupu-a-Nuku who is all about everything that grows in the land, in Papatuāuku, Mother Earth. It is befitting to celebrate Matariki with the Winter Harvest and to share with those nearest and dearest. 

Herbs that thrive in the cool

Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients like iron and calcium, herbs are a healthy addition to any dish. But the superpower of these edible plants lies in their protective polyphenols – antioxidant and anti-inflammatory plant compounds. Adding fresh herbs to your dishes throughout winter will keep your body topped up with nutritional goodness. 

All herbs prefer sunshine and temperate weather, but rosemary, parsley, marjoram, garlic chives, thyme, and sorrel can also tolerate cool, wintry weather. Be sure to provide diligent care and regular harvesting during summer and autumn to keep these herb varieties fighting fit for the winter months. 

Provide frost protection with a growing tunnel or shelter for your herbs. All you need is a framework of stakes or pipes and a covering. A frost cloth that allows water and sunlight through will require minimal maintenance, while a plastic covering will offer warmth – you’ll just need to water regularly.

Photo by Luca Volpe on Unsplash

Rongoā Mara – a medicinal garden

This is a great time to prune and nourish your medicinal plants, such as the Karamu – a deep muscle relaxant, or rosemary harvesting for making soap – Rosemary supports memory retention and can help to delay the effects of dementia. Collect Harakeke pani balm for burns, skin conditions and healing.  Support your plant by providing good quality compost and nutrients around the base of the trunk for high quality medicinal qualities in the seasons to follow. 

Winter vegetables 

Hardy vegetables like kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts not only withstand the cold but often improve in flavour after a frost. Additionally, root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and garlic can be planted to take advantage of the slower, steady growth that winter conditions provide. These are also delicious with a hearty roast. 

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

Citrus crops 

Matariki is an ideal time to enjoy the harvest of lemons, limes, and mandarins. Once established, these fruits are hardy and can withstand cooler temperatures, providing fresh, tangy flavours during the cold months. Making and gifting preserves like marmalade or lemon curd can be a fun activity to do with your grandchildren and is an opportunity to teach them about the cycles of nature and the importance of giving. 

Sharing your harvest

In the Northern Hemisphere, mid-winter is a time to get together with friends and family to celebrate Christmas and to feast on rich warming food. In New Zealand, Matariki is the perfect time for us to do the same as it is associated with reconnecting with your home and whānau. 

So why not gather with loved ones during Matariki to share the bounty that has been grown with love in your winter garden?

Ryman villages are full of people who love to garden and share their harvest as much as you do. If you would like to learn more about our friendly communities click here to find a village near you.