In the Southern Hemisphere, where the June solstice is known as the shortest day of the year, it marks the first day of astronomical winter, but the middle of winter in meteorological terms.
Backfill refers to products or materials used to fill excavations. The most common form is composed of a mixture of gypsum and calcium bentonite. Apart from filling holes, one of the primary purposes is to mantle sacrificial anodes under the ground.
Clay foundation drain cap: the top foot of backfill over the footing drains should be a low-permeance clay cap to keep surface water (those spilling-over gutters) away from the foundation. If plantings are intended, add 4 to 6 of loam on top of the clay cap.