Around the Garden

Courtesy of our friendly Horticulturist, Juanita:

As Spring unfolds here at the Garden, visitors are greeted with a burst of colour and life everywhere as far as the eye can see. The garden is looking absolutely spectacular at the moment and it sure is a pleasure to work amongst every day. The echidnas are happily digging holes throughout the garden looking for their next snack, and a few of the cold blooded reptiles have been spotted sunning themselves around the place. With mild temperatures and increasing daylight, it provides the perfect backdrop for revitalising the garden, and now is the perfect time for some essential tasks to consider this season:

1. Soil Preparation

Spring is the ideal time to prepare your soil for planting. Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels (a test kit can be purchased from your local hardware store or nursery), then amend it if needed with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility. Cultivating the soil will also help aerate it, promoting healthier root development for your plants.

2. Planting Vegetables and Herbs

With the risk of frost behind us, now is the time to sow potatoes and other vegetables like peas, carrots, and lettuce. You can also start herbs such as basil, parsley, and chives, which thrive in the warming weather. Consider using seed trays or direct sowing into well-prepared garden beds.

3. Flowering Plants

Spring is exploding with blossoms. Plant hardy annuals and perennials like pansies, snapdragons, and delphiniums to add vibrant colours to your garden. You can also divide existing perennials to promote growth and create more blooms.

5. Mulching

Applying mulch around your plants (but not too close around the collar of the plant) not only enhances the garden's appearance but also helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches, such as straw or wood chips, can break down over time, enriching the soil.

6. Pest Management

As the weather warms up, pests become more active. Keep an eye out for aphids and caterpillars. Implement natural pest control methods like companion planting or introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to help manage pest populations.

7. Planning for Summer

Now is a great time to think ahead. Consider what you want to grow in summer and start planning your garden layout. Whether you’re expanding your vegetable patch or creating a new flower bed, sketching your ideas can help you visualize the space.