How to put spring back into your garden
Lizzy Altenroxel, owner of Greener Tidings Garden Centre, tells us which plants are the best to plant in Spring.
POLOKWANE – Review spoke to Lizzy Altenroxel, owner of Greener Tidings Garden Centre, to find out which plants are the best to plant in Spring.
Altenroxel emphasised creating a garden with edible plants is a great way to get the family out of the house and into the garden.
“Absolutely everything from vegetables and herbs to large shrubs and trees can be planted during spring.
“Many gardeners focus on edible gardens, because it is a great way to get the children involved with planting, growing and harvesting their own fruits and vegetables.
“The best plants for young children include berries, cherry guavas, cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, and peas. Children love picking these and they are easy to grow,” Altenroxel explained.
She added this time of the year spurs everyone to get stuck into their gardens, because a lot of people want colour after the cold drab winter.
The best time to plant, said Altenroxel, is during autumn and winter, especially in Limpopo.
“Planting in the colder months ensures your newly planted garden settles in easier.
“Even though you don’t get much leaf growth during winter, your roots still grow and by the time spring arrives, the plant can then concentrate on top growth, so we actually catch the growing season.
“We find plants planted during winter months are stronger plants then the ones planted during spring,” Altenroxel revealed.
Before planting it is important to plan where you are going to plant.
“When planting an edible garden, make sure you choose a spot that is sunny and well-drained.
“Herbs and vegetables need at least six to eight hours of sun a day.
“When planting your soil must be well-drained, add loads of compost and bonemeal to the soil for root stimulation.
“Water the plants well – smaller seedlings should be watered at least two to three times a week.
“Do not let them dry out in the heat. After three weeks, you can start to fertilize.
“Multikelp is a great organic fertilizer for leafy vegetables.”
Altenroxel suggested Seamugnus for fruits and flowers.
“Edible patches will require fertilizer every two to three weeks,” she concluded.
