Feed hungry plants
Spring feeding makes all the difference to hungry plants like roses, citrus, vegies and container plants. Feed roses now with rose food for a continuation of beautiful blooms, and again after their summer prune, and give them weekly foliar sprays of diluted seaweed extract and fish emulsion to boost plant health. Citrus trees are tireless producers – feed with pelletised chicken manure now and again in February. If your citrus is planted “in-ground” you can protect the roots and soil by spreading a layer of The Garden Family Tea Tree Mulch around the root zone. Apply mulch after feeding and leave a 2–3cm gap between the mulch and the tree stem.
Vegies love ‘a little, often’, so sprinkle organic fertiliser every 3–4 weeks. And give your favourite container plants some controlled-release fertiliser according to your product directions. Regular feeding keeps your garden looking lush and productive, and it’s the perfect first step in your spring garden revival.
Shade heat sensitive veggies
As summer warms up, heat sensitive crops need a little extra care. A simple cover with 30% shade cloth can protect vegies like leafy greens, tomatoes and capsicums from wilting or sunburn. Drape the cloth over a few stakes or Polypipe hoops for quick, temporary shade, and remove it once the weather cools. Young fruit trees, especially those near hot reflective surfaces like fences or walls, will also benefit from some protection on scorching days.
While you’re at it, cover the soil with a 5–7cm layer of The Garden Family Sugar Cane Mulch to reduce evaporation and help keep roots cool and happy. It’s an easy weekend project the whole family can help with and another simple way to keep your spring garden revival thriving.
Repot container plants
When your potted plants start looking tired or roots are poking out the bottom, it’s time to repot! Give them a good soak first, then move them up to the next size pot. Get the kids to help you gently tease out crowded roots, place them in fresh premium potting mix, and backfill firmly. Add a little slow-release fertiliser, water thoroughly, and for outdoor pots, finish with a layer of The Garden Family Sugar Cane Mulch to help lock in moisture. Your plants will bounce back beautifully, adding instant freshness to your spring garden revival.
For more on seasonal feeding, check the expert tips from ABC Gardening Australia
