Autumn is a great time to get out in the garden. The heat of summer is behind us, save for the odd few days. There is still plenty of warmth about and in the soil though. This makes ideal conditions for planting, pruning and fertilising.
Here are seven jobs to keep you busy this autumn:
1. Fertilise your lawn. If your lawn is some years old, it can be a good idea to test the pH. This will enable you to ensure that the soil is not too acidic – which makes it hard for grass to flourish. Use a slow release fertiliser which will help the lawn to strengthen in time for winter.
You can make your lawn look better than this with a bit of work.
Make sure you use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging your valuable plants, or spreading disease from one to the other. Pruning fruit trees can enhance their crop yield, whilst pruning trees and shrubs can remove dead wood, create a bushier plant and one that is nicely shaped.
3. Plant Suitable VegetablesCheck with your local garden nursery for advice specific to your area but good autumn vegetables are onions, silverbeet, turnips, parsnips, rocket and broad beans.
4. MulchMulch remains important in the garden all year round. It is a good time to take stock and make sure that you have good coverage. If you need to top up any areas it is easier to do it now than in the heat of summer or the cold of winter.
5. Compost
Compost is great for gardens and a wonderful way to reduce food waste going into landfill. Autumn is a useful time for composters as many trees start to drop their leaves and these can be added into your compost bin.
A double compost bin is a great addition to the garden.
6. Make yourself some new plants from cuttingsMany plants can be propagated from cuttings rather than seed – including some natives - saving you money. Geraniums, succulents, rosemary and even banksias can be grown this way. For best results buy a hormone solution and good quality potting mix from your local garden nursery. Make sure you protect from any harsh sun or wind and keep the soil moist.
Succulents are easy to grow and maintain.
7. Plant bulbs
If you are a fan of spring bulbs such as daffodils, freesias and jonquils, now is the time to get them in the ground. Spring may seem a long way away but you will be rewarded for your efforts by a beautiful spring display if you put in a bit of time now.
