With the busy growing season winding down and summer holidays on the horizon, now is the perfect time for landholders across the Fleurieu and Hills regions to get stuck into a practical summer property check-up.

Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu is encouraging landholders to use the post-Christmas window to tackle key jobs that protect biodiversity, reduce bushfire risk, and build farm resilience for the year ahead.

From water for wildlife to weed control, here are 10 smart summer tasks to help your property thrive:

✅ 1. Bushfire Safety

Clear gutters, prune overhanging branches, and keep grass short around structures. Plant fire-retardant ground covers like ruby saltbush to protect soil and slow potential spread.

✅ 2. Help Native Wildlife Beat the Heat

Place shallow bird baths in shaded spots and top them up daily to support native species like fairy-wrens and mistletoe birds.

✅ 3. Get on Top of Woody Weeds

Now’s the time to tackle blackberry, gorse and briar rose. Sensitive natives have retracted underground, so you can safely use targeted control methods like cut-and-swab or foliar spray.

✅ 4. Track Feral Deer

Download the free FeralScan app to record sightings or damage. Your reports help guide coordinated local control efforts.

✅ 5. Control Rabbit Numbers

Inspect known hotspots, remove sheltering weeds, and apply control methods responsibly to protect pastures, crops and native plants.

✅ 6. Water Revegetation Wisely

Water deeply every two weeks during dry spells and check tree guards for damage—especially in grazing areas where stronger guards may be needed.

✅ 7. Spot the Christmas Bush

If you see Bursaria spinosa blooming with clusters of white flowers, take note—it’s a biodiversity hero. If you don’t have any, consider planting it next winter.

✅ 8. Give Snakes Their Space

Snakes keep rodent numbers in check. Minimise attractants like pet food and compost bins, and call a professional if one wanders too close.

✅ 9. Dig into Soil Health

Take a shovel to the paddock and check moisture levels, structure, and root depth. Small observations now can shape better land decisions later.

✅ 10. Collect Seeds Responsibly

Harvest a small portion (less than 10%) of ripe native seed pods to support revegetation. Always collect from multiple plants, and check for permits if gathering on public land.

For more detailed guidance, download the Stewardship Guides at landscape.sa.gov.au/hf/stewardshipguides

“These actions don’t take long but can have a lasting impact,” says the team at Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu. “Whether it’s checking tree guards or refreshing a bird bath, every step helps build healthier landscapes.”