Spring

Spring gardening is a time of renewal and growth, where gardens burst with vibrant colours and fresh scents. It's a season for planting seeds, tending to new shoots, and watching nature awaken. Whether it's planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs, spring gardening brings joy and anticipation to gardeners of all levels.

Best Tips

for your

Spring Garden

PLANTS

START SEEDS INDOORS

Gather seed starting trays or containers, seed starting mix, and seeds for early spring crops.
Choose seeds for vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Follow seed packet instructions for planting depth, spacing, and germination requirements.
Avoid placing too many seeds closely together in seed trays, to make thinning and separation easier for later.
Provide adequate light for seedlings using grow lights or placing trays near south-facing windows.
Try and keep ideal germination temperatures for your seedlings.
Label seed trays with plant names, seed variety, and sowing date for organization.
Use a spray bottle to mist seedlings gently to avoid overwatering or disturbing seeds. You can maintain consistent moisture levels by watering from the bottom and using a humidity dome if needed.
Transplant seedlings into larger pots or garden beds once they have developed true leaves and are sturdy enough for outdoor conditions.
Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting outdoors to acclimate them to outdoor conditions.

PLANT COOL-SEASON VEGETABLES

Choose cold-hardy crops like lettuce, spinach and kale.
Directly sow seeds for radishes, carrots, peas, and other cold-tolerant crops in garden beds.
Plant seeds or seedlings according to spacing guidelines.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Use row covers or cloches to protect young plants from late frosts or cold snaps.
Apply a balanced organic fertilizer formulated for vegetables to promote healthy growth.
Water vegetables deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells or hot weather.
Monitor for common pests like aphids or caterpillars and use organic pest control methods.
Harvest vegetables at their peak freshness for best flavor and nutritional value.

DEADHEAD FLOWERS

Deadhead flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and maintain plant appearance.
Use clean, sharp pruners to make cuts just above a leaf node or bud for natural-looking cuts.
Collect flower seeds for future planting or sharing.
Compost deadheaded flowers and plant debris.
Use deadheading as an opportunity to inspect plants for pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
Encourage self-seeding or collect seeds from deadheaded flowers for future plantings or sharing.

START WARM-SEASON SEEDS INDOORS

Choose seeds for tomatoes, peppers, and squash.
Use larger containers or seed trays for warm-season crops.
Provide plenty of light, warmth, and moisture for germination.
Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors.
Transplant seedlings after the last frost date for your area.

PLANT TREES AND SHRUBS

Choose trees and shrubs suitable for your climate and soil type.
Dig planting holes twice as wide as the root ball.
Loosen roots before planting and backfill with soil.
Water newly planted trees and shrubs deeply and regularly.
Mulch around the base of plants to conserve moisture.

PRUNE SPRING-FLOWERING SHRUBS

Prune spring-flowering shrubs like forsythia, lilac, and azalea after they finish blooming to shape and maintain plant size.
Remove dead or damaged branches and thin out crowded growth to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Avoid heavy pruning of spring-flowering shrubs in late spring or summer, as this can remove flower buds for the following year.
Prune shrubs that bloom on new wood, such as hydrangeas and butterfly bushes, before new growth starts.
Shape hedges and topiaries for a neat and tidy garden landscape.
Remove any suckers or water sprouts from tree trunks to promote strong central growth.
Prune fruit trees to encourage fruiting spurs and proper branch structure.

DIVIDE PERENNIALS

Divide perennials in early spring or fall when plants are dormant for best results.
Choose healthy, mature perennials for division.
Dig up the plant and use a sharp shovel or garden knife to separate root clumps into smaller sections.
Plant divisions at the same depth as the original plant, water thoroughly, and mulch to retain moisture.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Trim back foliage to reduce stress on divided plants and encourage new growth.
Label divisions with plant names and dates for reference.

PLANT SUMMER-BLOOMING BULBS

Choose bulbs that are firm and free from mold or damage for optimal growth.
Choose summer bloomers like dahlias, lilies, and gladiolus.
Plant bulbs at the recommended depth and spacing for each bulb type.
Water bulbs immediately after planting and keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Stake tall bulbs to prevent bending or breaking.
Apply a balanced bulb fertilizer or bone meal to promote strong root development.
Mulch around bulbs to conserve moisture and insulate soil.
Deadhead spent flowers to redirect energy into bulb growth and future blooms.

CONTROL WEEDS

Use a hoe or hand-weeding tool to remove weeds while they're small and easy to pull.
Continue to use mulch to suppress weed growth in garden beds.
Consider using landscape fabric or weed barriers in problem areas.
Apply organic weed control products as needed.
Regularly inspect and remove weeds to prevent them from spreading.

HARVEST EARLY CROPS

Harvest cool-season vegetables like lettuce, radishes, and peas.
Pick fruits as they ripen to encourage more production.
Harvest herbs for fresh use or drying.
Check plants daily for ripe produce to prevent overripening or spoilage.
Harvest vegetables and fruits at their peak ripeness for best flavor and nutritional value.
Use clean, sharp tools to harvest produce to avoid bruising or damaging plants.
Handle harvested crops gently to prevent spoilage and prolong shelf life.
Preserve excess harvests through freezing, canning, or drying for future use.

MONITOR PLANT HEALTH

Conduct regular inspections of plants for signs of diseases, pests, or nutrient deficiencies.
Keep a garden journal to track plant health, growth patterns, and treatments used.
Use organic gardening practices like crop rotation, companion planting, and soil testing for plant health.
Address plant health issues promptly with appropriate treatments like organic fungicides or insecticidal soaps.
Seek professional advice or consult local extension services for challenging plant health issues.

INSPECT FOR PESTS

Identify pests accurately to choose the most effective control methods.
Use physical barriers like row covers or netting to protect plants from pests.
Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or parasitic wasps to control pest populations naturally.
Attract beneficial insects and birds to your garden as natural pest control allies.
Rotate crops annually to disrupt pest life cycles and reduce infestations.
Monitor plant health regularly for early signs of pest damage, such as yellowing leaves or distorted growth.
Use organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil for minor infestations.
Prune and dispose of heavily infested plant parts to prevent pest spread.

PLANT EARLY SPRING FLOWERS

Choose cold-hardy annuals and perennials like pansies, primroses, and daffodils for early spring color.
Prepare planting holes with compost or organic matter to provide nutrients and improve soil drainage.
Plant bulbs and tubers at the appropriate depth and spacing, following specific planting instructions for each flower type.
Water newly planted flowers thoroughly and mulch around them to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent seed formation.

TRANSPLANT SEEDLINGS AND YOUNG PLANTS

Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, starting with a few hours of direct sunlight and increasing exposure over several days.
Choose a cloudy day or late afternoon for transplanting seedlings and young plants to minimize transplant shock and sun exposure.
Dig planting holes twice as wide as the root ball and amend soil with compost or organic matter for improved root growth.
Water transplanted seedlings thoroughly and provide shade or protection from wind until they establish new roots.
Mulch around transplanted plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition.

SOIL

PREPARE GARDEN BEDS

Clear debris and old plant material from garden beds to prevent disease and pests.
Amend soil with compost, aged manure, or organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.
Test soil pH and adjust if necessary for optimal plant growth and nutrient uptake.
Edge garden beds for a clean appearance and to prevent grass and weeds from encroaching.
Install mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Install drip irrigation or soaker hoses to ensure even watering in garden beds.
Use raised beds for improved drainage and easier access to plants.

MULCH GARDEN BEDS

Apply a layer of organic mulch like shredded leaves, straw, or bark around plants to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Leave a gap between mulch and plant stems to prevent moisture-related diseases like stem rot or crown rot.
Replenish mulch as needed throughout the spring season to maintain a consistent depth and coverage.
Use mulch color and texture to enhance garden aesthetics and complement plantings.
Avoid using thick layers of mulch that can smother plant roots and restrict airflow.

MONITOR SOIL MOISTURE

Use a soil moisture meter or probe to monitor soil moisture levels in garden beds, containers, and plant root zones, adjusting watering frequency based on plant needs and weather conditions.
Test soil pH using a soil test kit or digital pH meter to determine if soil acidity or alkalinity is within the optimal range for plant growth and nutrient availability.
Adjust soil pH as needed by adding amendments such as lime to raise pH for acid-loving plants or sulfur to lower pH for alkaline soils, following recommended application rates and guidelines.
Incorporate organic matter like compost, aged manure, or peat moss into soil to improve moisture retention, soil structure, and nutrient uptake by plants.
Consider using raised beds, containers, or amended planting areas to accommodate plants with specific soil requirements and optimize growing conditions.

FERTILISE PERRENIALS AND SHRUBS

Apply a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio to established plants as they begin active growth.
Use organic fertilizers like fish emulsion, bone meal, or compost tea for slow-release nutrients and soil enrichment.
Avoid over-fertilizing plants, especially those with low nutrient requirements or sensitive to excess nutrients.
Water plants after fertilizing to help nutrients penetrate the soil and reach plant roots.
Monitor plant growth and adjust fertilization rates based on plant response and nutrient deficiencies.

INSPECT IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

Check irrigation system components like hoses, connectors, and timers for leaks or damage.
Clean or replace clogged emitters, nozzles, or sprinkler heads for even water distribution.
Adjust irrigation schedules based on weather conditions and plant water needs.
Ensure even water distribution throughout the garden.
Upgrade to water-efficient irrigation systems like drip irrigation or rain sensors for water conservation.

WILDLIFE

FEED THE BIRDS

Provide a variety of bird feeders with different seed types, suet, and nectar to attract a diverse range of bird species to your garden.
Offer fresh water in bird baths, shallow dishes, or small ponds for birds and wildlife to drink and bathe, refreshing water regularly to maintain cleanliness.
Create wildlife-friendly habitats with native plants, nesting boxes, and sheltered areas for birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects and animals.
Avoid using chemical pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers that can harm birds and wildlife, opting for natural and organic gardening practices.
Monitor bird feeders and wildlife areas for activity, observing behaviors, and enjoying the beauty and biodiversity they bring to your garden.

ATTRACT POLINATORS

Provide a variety of bird feeders with different seed types, suet, and nectar to attract a diverse range of bird species to your garden.
Offer fresh water in bird baths, shallow dishes, or small ponds for birds and wildlife to drink and bathe, refreshing water regularly to maintain cleanliness.
Create wildlife-friendly habitats with native plants, nesting boxes, and sheltered areas for birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects and animals.
Avoid using chemical pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers that can harm birds and wildlife, opting for natural and organic gardening practices.
Monitor bird feeders and wildlife areas for activity, observing behaviors, and enjoying the beauty and biodiversity they bring to your garden.

CONTAINERS AND STRUCTURES

REPAIR AND PREPARE GARDEN STUCTURES

Inspect garden structures such as fences, trellises, and arbors for damage, rot, or wear from winter weather.
Repair or replace damaged or weakened parts of garden structures, using appropriate materials and tools for structural integrity and safety.
Ensure garden structures, furniture, bird houses and feeders are secure and stable.
Securely anchor garden structures to the ground or supporting posts, ensuring stability and resistance to wind, rain, and other weather conditions.
Clean and treat wooden garden structures with a protective sealant or paint to prevent rot, insect damage, and weathering over time.
Clean and disinfect greenhouse surfaces.
Inspect cold frames for proper insulation.
Regularly maintain and inspect irrigation systems, hoses, and watering equipment for leaks, clogs, or malfunctions, addressing issues promptly to avoid water waste and plant stress.

PLANT UP YOUR CONTAINERS (detailed guidelines)

Choose a container suitable for the type of plant, and its size, that you are planting.
Use a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Choose mixes tailored to specific plant types, such as cacti and succulent mix or acidic soil mix for certain plants.
Avoid using garden soil, which can be too dense and may contain pests or diseases.
Select plants that thrive in the container's environment, considering factors like sunlight exposure, temperature, and humidity levels.
Mix plants with similar water and light requirements to ensure they thrive together.
Incorporate a variety of plants for visual interest, such as thrillers (tall focal plants), fillers (mid-sized plants), and spillers (trailing plants).
Place a layer of gravel or broken pottery shards at the bottom of the container to improve drainage.
Fill the container with potting mix, leaving enough space for plants and watering.
Gently loosen the roots of plants before planting to encourage outward growth.
Plant at the appropriate depth, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Water newly planted containers thoroughly to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.
Water containers regularly, checking moisture levels by inserting a finger into the soil.
Fertilize container plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to package instructions.
Deadhead spent flowers and trim back leggy growth to promote continuous blooming and bushy growth.
Monitor plants for pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly with organic treatments if needed.
Rotate containers periodically to ensure even sunlight exposure and balanced growth.

INSPECT GARDEN LIGHTING

Check outdoor lighting fixtures, bulbs, and wiring for damage, corrosion, or malfunction.
Clean light fixtures and lenses to remove dirt, debris, and cobwebs that can affect light output and visibility.
Replace burnt-out bulbs with energy-efficient LED or solar-powered lights for cost savings and environmental benefits.
Adjust lighting angles and positioning to highlight garden features, pathways, and outdoor living areas effectively.
Install timers, motion sensors, or smart lighting controls for automated and energy-efficient outdoor lighting solutions.

BUILD RAISED BEDS OR CONTAINERS

Choose a suitable location for raised beds or containers, considering sunlight exposure, water access, and garden aesthetics.
Select durable materials such as cedar, redwood, or composite lumber for raised beds, avoiding treated wood that may contain harmful chemicals.
Build raised beds to a height that allows for comfortable gardening and accommodates deep-rooted plants like tomatoes and carrots.
Fill raised beds and containers with a well-draining soil mix, incorporating compost, perlite, or vermiculite for improved soil structure and fertility.
Install drip irrigation or soaker hoses for efficient watering of raised beds and containers, reducing water waste and promoting healthy plant growth.

INSTALL GARDEN EDGING

Choose garden edging materials such as bricks, stones, metal, or plastic based on durability, aesthetics, and ease of installation.
Outline garden beds, pathways, and landscaping features with edging to define boundaries and create a tidy garden layout.
Install edging at the appropriate depth to secure it in place and prevent shifting or movement over time.
Use flexible edging for curved garden borders or irregular shapes, cutting and bending as needed for a custom fit.
Maintain garden edging by cleaning debris, leveling edges, and repairing or replacing damaged sections for a polished and cohesive garden design.

INSTALL SUPPORTS FOR CLIMBING PLANTS

Install trellises, arbors, or pergolas in garden beds or along fences and walls to support climbing plants like roses, vines, and clematis.
Anchor structures securely in the ground or against stable surfaces, using concrete footings, stakes, or brackets for stability and durability.
Train climbing plants onto supports using soft ties, twine, or clips to avoid damaging stems and promote upward growth.
Prune and train climbing plants regularly to maintain desired shape, remove dead or tangled growth, and encourage flowering and fruiting.
Provide adequate water and nutrients for climbing plants, especially during hot weather or periods of rapid growth, to support healthy foliage and blooms.

CREATIVE BIT

PLANT GARDEN LAYOUTS

Evaluate garden spaces and consider changes or improvements based on previous year's successes and challenges.
Sketch garden layouts and planting plans, considering factors such as sunlight exposure, soil type, and water availability for each plant type.
Research new plant varieties, cultivars, and gardening techniques to incorporate into your garden design and planting scheme.
Create themed garden areas or functional zones such as vegetable gardens, flower borders, herb beds, and wildlife habitats.
Order seeds, plants, and garden supplies early to ensure availability and prepare for spring planting and landscaping projects.

ENJOY THE SEASON

Take time to observe wildlife activity in your garden, such as fledglings and young animals.
Capture spring garden scenes with photography or artwork to document seasonal changes.
Plan garden projects or renovations for the upcoming summer season.
Reflect on successes and challenges from the past gardening year and set goals for improvement.
Share your spring garden experiences and knowledge with fellow gardeners through social media or community events.