Now that Autumn's here

As summer draws to a close in Melbourne, it's crucial to ready your garden for the coming winter and the subsequent spring. Autumn holds a surprisingly significant role in ensuring optimal growth when spring arrives.

Here are ten tips for doing so:

1. Clear Away Leaves: Regularly transfer fallen leaves from your autumn garden and lawn to the compost bin to prevent them from suffocating plants and grass. Raking leaves and composting or using them as mulch in garden beds can enrich the soil with valuable nutrients found in well-rotted leaf mould.

2. Plant Spring Bulbs: Strategically plan for a dazzling spring bulb display by mass planting varieties like daffodils, Dutch iris, and tulips. Prepare the soil adequately for optimal growth, including chilling bulbs in warmer regions before planting and incorporating fertiliser into the soil to enrich it.

3. Trim and Prune Hedges and Plants: Prune hedges before winter sets in to maintain their compactness and encourage bushiness. Careful pruning stimulates new growth, but avoid over-pruning to ensure the emergence of spring blossoms.

4. Pot Up Winter-Flowering Annuals: Enhance your autumn garden and prepare for late winter and spring by potting up winter-flowering annuals like pansies, Primula, and Polyanthus. Sow seeds or acquire seedlings for a colorful display.

5. Divide Perennials: Divide large clumps of perennials in autumn, such as dahlias and daylilies, to promote healthy growth. Add fertiliser into the soil during planting to provide essential nutrients for vigorous spring growth.

6. Lawn Care: Autumn is ideal for lawn maintenance, including feeding and overseeding. Utilize slow-release lawn food to strengthen roots and thicken grass, ensuring a lush green cover throughout winter.

7. Plant New Trees and Plants: Take advantage of autumn's moist soil to plant new trees and shrubs, allowing ample time for establishment before summer. Proper soil preparation, including adding gypsum and organic matter, is crucial for optimal plant growth.

8. Propagate Plants from Cuttings: Propagate hardwood herbs and natives by taking cuttings and potting them in containers filled with premium potting mix. Provide appropriate care to encourage root development.

9. Allow Plants to Set Seed: Leave seed heads on flowering perennials and grasses to add visual interest to the garden during winter.

10. Citrus Tree Care: Give citrus trees a late summer boost by feeding them with specially formulated citrus plant food. Ensure thorough watering before and after application and address any pest issues promptly to maintain tree health.

To maintain a vibrant and healthy autumn garden, proactive planning and actions are essential.

Too much to do? Give GBG a call and we'll come through!