Preparing the Garden for the Warmer Months Ahead

Preparing the Garden for the Warmer Months Ahead

As we step into September, Adelaide gardeners are greeted with the start of spring, a crucial time to prepare the garden for the warmer months ahead. After the cooler winter season, your garden might look a bit tired, but with the right care, it can spring back to life. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, here are some tips to help you give your Adelaide garden the best start in September.

Spring clean your garden

First things first, it’s time to give your garden a thorough spring clean. Over winter, fallen leaves, dead plants, and other debris can accumulate, suffocating your soil and plants. Grab a rake and clear away any leaves or plant debris from garden beds and around your plants. This will improve air circulation and help prevent pests and diseases from taking hold. If you’ve got a compost heap, these debris can be a great addition to it. If not, now’s a great time to start one. Composting organic matter is a fantastic way to create nutrient-rich soil for your plants later in the season.

Check your soil

Adelaide’s winter rains may have compacted your garden beds, so now’s the perfect time to check your soil. Healthy, loose soil is essential for good plant growth, as it allows roots to spread easily and take in water and nutrients. Grab a garden fork or spade and lightly turn the soil to loosen it up, making it easier for new plants and seeds to take root. If your soil is looking dry or tired, consider adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will give it a nutrient boost and improve its structure, helping your plants thrive throughout spring and summer.

Prune and trim

Spring is the ideal time to prune and trim your plants to encourage new growth. If you have roses, now is the time for their final prune before the growing season kicks off. Trim back any dead or damaged branches on shrubs, and shape them to promote a healthy structure. Be mindful not to over-prune, though, especially on plants that bloom on old wood, such as hydrangeas. For these types of plants, it’s best to prune after they flower, not before.

It’s also a good idea to deadhead any remaining flowers from winter-blooming plants, as this will encourage them to put their energy into new growth rather than seed production.

Feed your plants

As the weather warms up, your plants will start to grow more actively and will need plenty of nutrients to support their development. Now’s a great time to give your garden a feed with a good-quality fertiliser. For garden beds and flowering plants, use a slow-release fertiliser, which will provide steady nourishment over time. If you’re growing fruit trees or vegetables, a specific fertiliser designed for these plants will give them the nutrients they need to produce a healthy crop. Remember to water the fertiliser in well to help it reach the roots. For those growing native plants, use a low-phosphorus fertiliser, as many Australian natives are sensitive to high levels of phosphorus and could suffer if the wrong fertiliser is used.

Planting new plants and seeds

September is the perfect time to start planting for the spring and summer season. If you’ve been planning a vegetable garden, now’s your moment. Tomatoes, zucchinis, beans, cucumbers, and capsicum can all be planted in September, setting you up for a bountiful harvest later in the season. For flower lovers, now is a great time to plant annuals like petunias, marigolds, and sunflowers, which will bring vibrant colour to your garden as the weather warms up. If you prefer perennials, consider planting varieties like lavender, salvias, and daisies for long-lasting blooms. Remember to prepare your soil before planting by loosening it up and adding some compost or manure to give your new plants a strong start.

Weed control

With the warmer spring temperatures comes the unwelcome appearance of weeds. These opportunistic plants can quickly take over your garden if left unchecked, competing with your plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight.

Now’s the time to get on top of weeds before they spread. Hand-pull any weeds you see, making sure to remove the roots to prevent them from growing back. You can also apply mulch to your garden beds, which will not only suppress weeds but also help your soil retain moisture as the weather gets warmer. If your garden has been plagued by more stubborn weeds, consider using a pre-emergent herbicide to stop them from sprouting altogether. Just be sure to read the instructions carefully, especially if you have sensitive plants nearby.

Irrigation check

With spring’s unpredictable weather in Adelaide, it’s important to check your irrigation system to make sure it’s in good working order. You don’t want to wait until the first hot day to discover your sprinklers or drip lines are clogged or not working properly. Test your system and check for any leaks or blockages. Adjust your watering schedule as needed for the warmer days, but keep in mind that the soil may still be moist from winter rains. It’s always a good idea to do a quick check by sticking your finger into the soil – if it’s still damp, you may not need to water yet. Consider putting in a rain gauge or water-saving irrigation system if you haven’t already. Adelaide’s dry summer conditions mean that efficient water use is essential for keeping your garden healthy.

Mulch your garden

Mulching is one of the simplest yet most effective things you can do for your garden. Adding a layer of mulch to your garden beds helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature – all crucial as we head into the warmer months. Organic mulch, such as straw, wood chips, or compost, will also break down over time, adding valuable nutrients to your soil. Aim for a layer of about 5-7 cm, but make sure not to pile it up against the stems of plants, as this can lead to rot.

By following these simple steps in September, you’ll give your Adelaide garden the best start to the season. With some preparation, a little hard work, and regular care, your garden will be well-equipped to handle the challenges of spring and thrive throughout the warmer months. If you need help with anything from garden maintenance to landscaping services, feel free to reach out to our team – we’re here to help keep your garden looking its best year-round.

If you need any assistance with lawn maintenance our team is always happy to help and you are welcome to give us a call on 0414 248 541. We can offer one off services and monthly seasonal maintenance packages.