Getting your garden ready for summer

Every homeowner dreams of a personal summer oasis in their backyard – the perfect place to enjoy a nice cold drink under the hot summer sun. Getting your garden ready for summer takes work, but it’s worth it as you enjoy the fruits of your labour. There are some important steps you need to take to get your garden in tip top shape and we’ll outline the key ones below:

Nutrients
If you’re planning on adding some beautiful flowers to your garden, one of the most important things is to make sure that the soil in the beds is rich in nutrients. Flowers need soil that contains the right amount of phosphorous and potassium to flourish. There are kits you can buy to test the soil, but usually the easiest thing to do is to add a new layer of top soil in the spring. With the right soil, water, and sun light, those flowers will add colour to your yard all summer long.

Mowing, Thatching, & Aerating
Along with flowerbeds, a well-manicured lawn will really add to the appeal of your garden. Achieving a lush green grass takes a little effort, but it’s well worth it. Depending on your starting point, the lawn may need to be thatched or aerated. Aerating is preferred if the lawn is in good shape to start. It involves puncturing the soil beneath the grass with small holes. This allows water and any nutrients you add to reach the roots and will generally make the lawn healthier. After that it’s just a matter of keeping your grass at the right length, a good target is 2 to 2 ½ inches, and you’re on your way to perfection.

Natural Herbicides for a Healthy Lawn
Natural herbicides work by giving your lawn the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. When it’s vigorous, the weeds won’t be able to take root and your grass will have that nice plush green look all of summer time. They’re super effective and safe for the environment. That’s a win for amateur gardeners everywhere, and a win for the planet.

Flower Power
To withstand a QLD summer, flowers need to be bold. These hardy beauties surely make the cut – sow ageratum (teeny tiny), balsam (aromatic), celosia (edible), cockscomb (bright), gomphrena (globe shape), impatiens (nicknamed: Busy Lizzie), marigold (loves full sun), sunflower (pretty).

Herbs, Fruit & Veggies
The best for South-East QLD & Northern NSW areas:
Herbs – Basil, chives, coriander, fennel, lemongrass, mint, parsley, and tarragon.
Fruit & Veggies – Artichoke, beans, capsicum, celery, Chinese cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, leek, lettuce, melons, onion, potato (tubers), rosella, silver beet, spring onion, squash, sweet corn, sweet potato and tomatoes.

Water for Growth
Every living thing needs water! The environment you live in plays a large part in how much water you have to apply yourself to the garden. Typically, you’ll need to water your grass every 2 to 3 days (early in the morning is best). As for the flowers, vegetables and herbs, watering them daily is necessary in summer (even twice a day- morning and night). Before developing a schedule, it’s important to pay attention to any local bylaws on watering as well. In areas where there are water challenges, it’s best to choose plants that are hardier. Additionally, a cactus plant could be the way to go. There are many beautiful types that can enhance a garden.

Enjoying the Results
Getting your garden ready for summer can be a lot of fun and it’s quite rewarding. The suggestions provided above are a great starting point. By applying them, you’ll be able to create a garden that looks beautiful all throughout summer and beyond. Most importantly, one you can enjoy with your guests on those hot summer nights.

Do you wish for a larger living space to complete your garden area at home? The team at In Style Patios and Decks can work with you to create a standout living zone, right in time for summer. We cover all areas including the Gold Coast, Northern Rivers, Tweed Heads, Logan & South Brisbane. We make dreams a reality! Offering the widest range of patios, pergolas, and pavilions, you’ll be sure to get whatever you desire. Call us today on 0436 007 776 for a FREE quote.