Top 10 Gardening Tips for Melbourne's Climate
Melbourne’s one of a kind climate keeps gardeners on their toes! With its infamous “four seasons in one day,” everyone must be prepared. Whether you’re an expert gardener or are getting started, these tips will assist you to make sure that your garden survives in Melbourne's unpredictable climate.
1. Ensure You Understand Melbourne’s Weather
Melbourne’s weather is a mixed bag, from cool winters to hot summers and everything in between. Its important to choose plants that can withstand the severe weather changes. Don’t forget to check the weather and be prepared for sudden changes.
2. Choose Native Plants
Native Australian plants like kangaroo paw, grevilleas, and bottlebrush are perfect for Melbourne. They’re accustomed to the local soil and climate which means less work for you and more habitat for birds and bees. It’s a win-win!
3. Always Remember Seasonality
Gardening is different for each season and you should make an excel document consisting of:
Autumn: You should enhance your soil and cultivate crops for winter.
Winter: You prune trees, shrubs, and prepare for sowing seeds during spring.
Spring: Sow seeds and make sure you provide plenty of food to your plants.
Summer: Do mulching, smartly watering, and provide assistance to your plants during the heated days.
4. Feed Your Soil
Melbournes soils can be complex; certain areas can be deep clay while others can be sandy. To maintain soil health, add compost or manure. A simple soil test can assist you in determining an area’s requirements.
5. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch
If you are not already mulching, you are missing out. Organic mulch such as shredded bark or straw clippings serves a range of purposes. It serves to cool and retain soil moisture, while effectively preventing weed infections. Spread organic mulch 10 to 5 centimeters thick around your plants.
6. Water Wisely
Using a timer for watering can help especially kind with water irrigation as it can get to freezing point in spring and requires a certain amount of attention all throughout. Remember, during the summer months water restriction periods and excessive heat are bound to be common. Instead of putting the plants directly in the garden, use soaker hoses to give them just the right amount of water and nutrients. And don’t forget, the best time to water is either just after dawn, or before dusk.
7. Work with Microclimates
Your garden has a weather system of its own. Make them work for you! To illustrate: What do you do with frost sensitive plants? Plant them in a sheltered spot. Place the sun loving drought resistant plants in the spot where the sun shines most. The shade loving plants can be tucked under walls on trees.
8. Use Helpful Insects for Pest Control
Aphids and caterpillars can infest and damage Melbourne gardens. To avoid the use of harmful chemicals, invite beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to do the job. Remember, balance in the ecosystem of your garden is essential.
9. Prepare for Extreme Weather Variability
Melbourne does not shy away from throwing its residents some surprises every now and then. Shade cloths will protect your plants from high temperatures. Secure staked tall plants during windy conditions. Heavy rains will also require good drainage equipment in place.
10. Provide Care to the Plants Consistently
Providing care to the plants consistently will ensure a healthy and good looking garden. Remember to regularly prune, weed, feed and check for stress signals from plants. Your effort will surely help, just a few minutes every day can positively impact your plants.
Gardening in Melbourne can be an adventure with its challenges, but the outcome is undoubtedly pleasing. With a little bit of effort, the community will surely envy your garden. Get your hands dirty and start planting – you can do it!
If you need assistance caring for your garden, regardless of size or condition, make sure to get in touch with us. Contact us today and Together, we can make your dream garden a reality!
