Spring is a season of new starts. Whether it’s updating our wardrobe, adjusting our skin care routines or amending our diets to adapt to the warmer weather, the start of September is the perfect time to embark on new projects that refresh our lives. And, our gardens are no exception. Here, landscape designer from VL Design Australia, Kath Meier, shares her expert tips on transforming your outdoor living spaces.
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When it comes to deciding how to Spring clean your garden, Meier advises starting with a thorough decluttering process. “There is nothing more satisfying than cleaning up a sad Winter-affected yard,” she begins. Begin by clearing away dead leaves and debris left over from Winter. This not only improves the aesthetics but also promotes healthier plant growth as temperatures rise.
Weeding out the Winter blues
“Late Winter into early Spring is prime time for tackling weeds,” says Meier. The soft, moist soil makes weed removal easier. Once weeds are cleared, she recommends mulching with organic materials like lucerne hay or sugar cane mulch to retain moisture and suppress further weed growth.
Early Spring is also ideal for pruning plants and shaping hedges. “Freshly trimmed hedges can rejuvenate a garden still recovering from Winter,” she explains. Meier suggests popular hedge plants such as Viburnum and Buxus for their ability to enhance privacy and define garden spaces.
Planting the seeds
For those cultivating edible gardens, Meier advises clearing out spent Winter vegetables, amending the soil with compost and fertiliser, and planning for new plantings. “Consider the space requirements of plants like zucchini and cucumber,” she advises, emphasising the importance of crop rotation for optimal plant health.
To add bursts of colour, Meier recommends potted annual flowers like petunias and cosmos, which thrive with minimal care and offer vibrant displays throughout Spring and Summer. She also highlights Lavender and Salvia for their beauty, fragrance, and low-maintenance qualities.
Have fun with furnishings
Meier acknowledges the wear outdoor furniture endures during Winter and suggests a thorough assessment and cleaning. “Consider sanding and re-oiling timber pieces or adding bright cushions to breathe new life into tired furniture,” she suggests. For new additions, she recommends durable materials like aluminium and fade-resistant fabrics.
“Outdoor decor enhances the ambience of any garden,” says Meier. She recommends water features for soothing sounds and outdoor pots for versatility in design. Personalised elements like statues or feature rocks can add sentimental value and visual interest.
While flowers are focal, Meier emphasises the importance of practical elements like outdoor lighting, which enhances garden aesthetics and safety. She also advises retaining firepits for cool Spring evenings and recommends pressure-cleaning hard surfaces to freshen up the garden for warmer months.
With Australia’s unpredictable climate, Meier suggests strategic plant placement to protect against late frosts and early heatwaves. “Consider shading plants from intense sun and using covers during frosty nights,” she advises, ensuring plants thrive in varying conditions.
Finally, for those looking to integrate edible plants into their garden, Meier suggests creative solutions like using herbs as borders, planting dwarf fruit trees, or experimenting with espalier techniques for space-saving fruit production.
