Now that the winter chill is receding, it’s time to get some work done in the garden before it starts to get too hot. In this article, we’ll look at the things you can do to spring clean your garden to get it ready for summer entertaining, the seasons weather and beyond.
Start planting
Now (September to October) is the perfect time of year to get those tree and shrub saplings, as well as plant seedlings, in the ground. The weather is more mild and this gives new plants and trees the time they need to establish their root systems and do a bit of growing before temperatures become too extreme again. Once they have grown some foliage, they will then be able to create enough of their own energy to keep them growing through the harsher months.
Brisbane is in the humid subtropical area of Queensland and spring in this region is usually the driest time of year, followed by increasing rain leading into summer. Because of this, you’ll need to establish your plants and trees with plenty of watering, followed by a decrease in watering as the rainy summer season does the job for you.
The location you plant in is one of the most important factors to its survival. The best way of ensuring they don’t have to struggle too much to thrive is to know what species you’re planting and follow the directions for proper conditions. Does it require full sun or partial shade? Does it require a lot of water or only occasional watering?
Another thing to consider is the general condition of the area you’re planting in. Does it experience high winds, flooding or high foot traffic for example? Choose a good spot, then prepare the soil by removing any weeds, fertilising and watering before planting.
Complete last minute pruning
If you didn’t do your pruning and tree lopping over the winter months, don’t panic! There’s still a bit of time left, as long as your trees and shrubs aren’t showing any signs of new green growth yet! If they are or you’re not sure, you are definitely better off calling in one of our expert arborists for an assessment or to do the job for you. That’s because pruning or lopping at the wrong time can cause damage (or worse!) to your trees.
Pruning and lopping in some cases is considered a very important step in caring for your trees. It promotes fresh, vigorous growth and keeps your trees healthy by removing dead, damaged or diseased branches. Pruning properly also:
- Improves and increases fruit and/or flower production
- Prevents weak or dead branches from breaking and falling
- Improves the tree’s structural integrity
- Improves the shape of the tree or removes limbs from harmful areas
- Improves a tree’s overall aesthetics
As mentioned, if you’re doing more than a light prune or need to prune a tree or shrub that’s showing new growth, it’s best to call in a professional, like the team at Brisbane Treeworx. It’s also a lot safer!
Plant your potted plants in the ground
This time of the year is also the best time to re-home any plants that might be outgrowing their pots. Doing this will enable plants who are getting too big to expand and develop their root system.
You can either re-plant your squished trees and plants into the ground or a larger pot. To do this for smaller potted plants, carefully hold your hand over the top of the soil in the pot, before tipping it upside down into your hand. Gently shake it free from the pot, then loosen them, before planting into their new home. Larger trees or plants can be carefully dug out of their pots and replanted.
We hope these tips help you have a thriving spring and summer garden. If you require any assistance though, call Brisbane Treeworx on 0400 249 099 or click here to contact us and we’ll be happy to help you out.
