How to prepare your garden for the heat of summer
In short: Spring is more than just a season for planting; it is a critical window for maintenance. From managing citrus pests to fortifying your soil, the work you do now determines whether your garden thrives or withers when the summer temperatures arrive.
The transition into warmer months requires a dual focus on protection and nourishment. For citrus growers, spring is the time to monitor for specific pests that can damage new growth. Leaf miners leave distinctive squiggly lines on leaves, while bright green aphids often cluster near growing tips. If infestations are minor, you can simply snip off the affected areas, but heavier attacks may require a spray of horticultural oil. Additionally, gall wasps can be managed by disposing of affected branches in the green bin or using a vegetable peeler to expose the gall to air.
Soil health and moisture retention are equally vital. Applying mulch to trees before summer helps conserve soil moisture and reduces water stress. To improve water infiltration, you can use a pitchfork to aerate the ground. For lawns showing signs of ill health or suffering from depressions, spreading compost can provide much-needed nutrients. If you are dealing with bindi weeds, non-chemical methods like using a specialist weed hoop hoe or a pricking tool are effective alternatives to chemical treatments.
As you begin planting, consider the variety and placement of your crops. Leafy greens such as lettuce, silverbeet, and tatsoi are excellent spring additions. For those growing sunflowers, choosing shorter varieties—such as the 40cm types—can be beneficial as they require less water and do not shade out other plants. To protect young seedlings, utilize shade cloth or pots that allow you to move plants into the shade as needed. Finally, integrating pollinator plants like marigolds, stocks, and violets can support a healthier garden ecosystem.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Essential spring gardening jobs to prepare for the next season | Gardening 101 | Gardening Australia
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