Tasmania Home Stories Spring 2024

Getting your garden spring ready: a quick guide

As winter fades and the first hints of spring emerge, it's time to prepare your garden for a new growing season. Here’s a concise guide to help you get your garden spring-ready and ensure a bountiful and vibrant landscape.

1. Clean up winter debris Start by clearing away any debris left over from winter—dead leaves, branches, and old plant materials. This not only tidies up the garden but also prevents the buildup of pests and diseases. Rake the soil to remove any remaining thatch and to help aerate it. 2. Prepare the soil Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving garden. Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels, and amend it as needed with compost or organic matter. If the soil is compacted, use a garden fork or tiller to loosen it, improving drainage and root growth. 3. Prune and trim Prune dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs. This helps promote healthy growth and improves the overall appearance of your garden. For certain plants, such as roses and perennials, early spring is the ideal time to trim back old growth to encourage new shoots. 4. Check tour tools Ensure your gardening tools are in good working condition. Sharpen pruners, clean and oil garden shears, and check the handles and blades for any damage. Well-maintained tools make gardening tasks easier and more efficient. 5. Plan and plant Decide what you want to grow this season. Start seeds indoors if you’re planning to grow plants that need a head start. For direct

9. Plan for pollinators Enhance your garden’s appeal to pollinators like bees and butterflies by planting a variety of nectar-rich flowers. Include native plants that are well-suited to your local environment and attract beneficial insects. 10. Enjoy the process Gardening should be a pleasurable experience, so take time to enjoy the process. As you prepare your garden for spring, savor the fresh air and the promise of new growth. Your efforts will soon be rewarded with a vibrant and flourishing garden.

sowing, prepare your garden beds by loosening the soil and mixing in compost. Early spring is a good time to plant cool- season crops like lettuce, spinach, and peas. 6. Mulch and fertilise Apply a layer of mulch to garden beds to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Choose an organic mulch, such as straw or bark, which will also improve soil quality as it decomposes. Fertilise your garden with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to provide essential nutrients for the growing season. 7. Water wisely With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s crucial to establish a good watering routine. Early spring often brings unpredictable weather, so monitor rainfall and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. 8. Monitor for pests and diseases Keep an eye out for early signs of pests and diseases. Spring is the time when many insects and fungal problems begin to emerge. Address any issues promptly with natural or chemical treatments as needed to protect your plants.

Spring planting

Artichoke Potato Tomato Pumpkin Silver Beet Cucumber Celery Spinach Eggplant Chilli Capsicum Lettuce

Sweetcorn Parsnip Peas Climbing Bean Dwarf Bean Butter Bean Beetroot Carrots Radish

By following these simple steps, you’ll set the stage for a successful gardening season. Happy gardening!

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