Spring has SPRUNG!

September 1 is officially the first day of spring and September is tourism month in SA. At this time of the year, gardening, which usually just feels like a chore becomes far more enjoyable. Perhaps the prospect of colourful, fragrant blooms is what motivates us. So let’s go to start shaping up our spring gardens.

Take a look at your Grass!
It might not look its best after the winter, but with a bit of TLC, you can have it looking picture perfect in no time. Check whether there’s a fair amount of dead grass and if so, you will need to rake it out before you attempt any lawn care. Without raking, any fertilizer or new seed will simply settle on the dead grass, rather than getting down into the soil.

One the raking is complete; it’s time to add fertilizer. Most nurseries carry a variety of these and if you are uncertain, simply describe your grass’ condition for advice. Remember though, that when applying fertilizer it is important to read the product instructions carefully.

If you need to re-seed, this is only done after the fertilizer has been applied.

Plant and transplant
Spring is a good time to plant those new roses, berries, fruit trees and most deciduous plants. If you’re uncertain as to what to plant, research online or visit your nursery. If you plan on transplanting existing plants from one spot to another, this is the perfect time to do so. Remember that many plants will already be starting their annual spring growth.

Pruning
If you need to prune ornamental trees and shrubs, the best time to do so is before growth starts. The exceptions to that rule are spring-flowering shrubs. For those, you need to wait until after they finish flowering.

Weeding
Probably everyone’s least favourite garden activity and it can be backbreaking work. Tackle this task a little at a time, interspersed with more enjoyable garden activities, and it will seem less tiresome.

Pick your perennials
Take a look around your garden and decide whether you can brighten the place up with a few new “faces.” Gardening books and magazines and online websites should give you plenty of ideas, once you determine the amount of sunlight and the soil conditions affecting each part of your garden.

Buying perennials that have already experienced at least one full growing season is worth the additional cost as they will probably be sturdier and more likely to thrive than smaller, cheaper options.

Visit the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism website at http://www.nmbt.co.za/, and join in the tourism month activities. Get outside, breathe in that fresh spring air and remember why you love your garden and spring!