Spring is the ideal time to get your South Australia garden ready for summer. There is quite a lot of work ahead. Getting an early start on planning your garden and yard maintenance will allow you to relax when the weather reaches peak temperatures.
Fertilise
If you already have a well maintained garden you will know that spring is the prime time for fertilising. You can help your plants to grow up strong and healthy, using fertiliser and water retaining agents. Garden and potted plants, as well as lawns will benefit from a high nitrogen slow-release fertiliser.
Weed and mulch
Mulch is a great way to protect plants, shrubs and trees, as well as encouraging water retention. Soil suffers in the South Australian heat. By adding mulch, you are protecting the soil and helping to prevent weeds from proliferating. Organic mulch has the added benefit of adding nutrients to soil. Keep on top of any weeds that do crop up to control what grows in your garden.
Veggies
October is the ideal time for planting your veggies. The winter thaw means that the soil is warm and ready for your corn, cucumbers, beans and any other veggies you want to get ready for summer. If you have a herb patch, spring is also the ideal planting season.
Pest Control
Don’t risk the growth of your new plants – begin pest control early! Aphids are now on the hunt for food. The good news is that lady bird larvae and parasitic wasps are also apt to make an appearance in your garden. These natural predators of aphids should keep the pests under control. You don’t want to kill these beneficial insects by using pesticides unless absolutely necessary. Simply shaking aphids off or using a garden host to wash them off your stalks.
Plant and Lawn Maintenance
How did your garden and lawn cope through the winter? If your existing plants and lawn need some TLC, take advantage of the time you have in spring. You can prune any plants to encourage new growth. It is also important cut down any flowering winter plants. Pruning bushes is your next step before moving onto the lawn. Reseed your lawn where there are dead patches to bring life back to your garden.
Inspect Tools and Furniture
You may have noticed while carrying out chores in the garden that some of your tools require maintenance. It is best to get these jobs out of the way so you can relax during summer. Check all your tools including movers and address any maintenance needs. Did you store away summer furniture? Some furniture items may not have fared well during the colder months. Wash everything down and replace any damaged items.
Pool Safety
As the weather gets warmer, South Australian families will want to spend more time in pool. This is a good time to reacquaint everyone at home with pool safety. It is especially important to make sure that younger children are kept safe. This article discusses the pool safety requirements for South Australia pools. Further information is available on the SA Government website.
Spring Renovations
If you have any renovations in mind, now is the time to get the ball rolling. You do not want builders working on your property during the summer months. It’s hard to relax and enjoy the sun when your home and garden is a hive of activity. Houspect can provide building inspections for any type of construction project. Call today on 1300 655 694 or email at info.sa@houspect.com.au to discuss your needs.