With spring here (sort of), green thumbs are tingling. The City of Hobart's nursery team have provided their expert tips to assist you in the garden.
1. Weeds Grow Fast—Act Quickly!
Spring is a time of rapid plant growth, but weeds grow even faster.
The saying goes, "One year’s weed equals seven years' seed," so tackle them early to save yourself work later.
After clearing weeds, apply mulch to slow their return and retain soil moisture.
2. Stinging Nettle: A Surprising Superfood
Stinging nettle might be popping up in your garden, known for its itchy sting.
But did you know it's also nutritious and often used in herbal medicine?
Nettles can be a great substitute for leafy greens and are perfect for soups.
With gloves on, harvest the new growth and explore the many recipes available online.
3. Perfect Time to Plant Herbs, Veggies, and Berries
Spring is ideal for starting a variety of herbs, vegetables, and berries from seed or punnets.
Be cautious of frost and wind, which can harm young plants.
Some great options for your garden include strawberries, potatoes, carrots, spinach, and raspberries.
4. Add Summer Flowering Beauties to Your Garden
Now is a great time to plant summer-flowering herbaceous plants like lilies, dahlias, and gladiolus.
Plant them mid-spring, after the risk of frost, for a vibrant summer display.
5. Visit Tasmania’s Green Spaces
With spring in full bloom, take the opportunity to visit Tasmania's open gardens, parks, and green spaces.
The lush new growth and flowers are a sight to behold.
6. Boost Your Lawn’s Health
Apply a selective herbicide to your lawn this spring to tackle weeds without harming the grass.
Follow up with a nitrogen fertilizer two weeks later for a lush, green lawn.
7. Prune Spring Flowering Shrubs
After your spring shrubs finish flowering, give them a prune.
This encourages new growth and sets the stage for even more blooms this season.
8. Plant Native Tube Stock
Spring is the perfect time to plant native tube stock.
The soil moisture is high after winter, and the incoming spring rain will help them establish.
Native plants not only enhance your garden's beauty but also support local wildlife.
Just remember, even drought-resistant plants need regular watering during their first summer.