Early Autumn Gardening

March is time to get your garden ready for autumn planting. The current lockdown in South Africa means you won’t be able to buy new plants just yet (the days are still a bit too hot anyway) but the extra time is a chance to prepare your garden for planting.

Garden Pruning

It’s time to do a final light prune on trees and summer shrubs that are done flowering. Cut away dead leaves and neaten up untidy trees before the cold hits.

Divide and Conquer

Ensure perennials like agapanthus, wild iris and asters flower and spread in the summer again by dividing and replanting them while the soil is still warm and the air is cool.

Garden Plan

Use this time to plan your garden so you know what to ask about when you are able to get to the nursery or speak to a landscaper about your garden plans.

Some plants to consider for your autumn planting are aloes, golden shower tree, roses, namaqualand daisies, poppies, freesia, ranunculi, daffodils, pansies, poppies, primulas, cosmos, echinacea and Amaryllis.

Want to get your veggie garden going? Go for lettuce, spinach, cauliflower, carrots, wild garlic, onions, peas, parsley, rocket, kale and leek.

Mulch

Protect your plants and help them establish their roots during the colder months by adding nutrient rich fertiliser, compost or mulch.

Mow

Mow your grass a little shorter by setting your blades to the lowest setting. This will encourage growth before winter. After mowing, remember to feed your lawn to keep it looking good.

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