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The arrival of spring means it’s time to hit refresh on your vegie patch and get it ready for planting. But before you dig in, take the time to tidy the garden and improve the soil, as this will help grow healthy and tasty food. Here’s how to get your patch up to scratch.
To prepare vegie beds, urban gardener Connie Cao (@connieandluna) recommends removing existing plants left over from winter. “Most vegies are annual crops and need to be removed at the end of the growing season,” says Connie. “An easy option is to cut the plants back to ground level, allowing the roots to naturally decompose and provide a source of organic matter to the soil.” However, if there are weeds, consider pulling them out, as depending on the weed, slashing them can encourage more growth. “Removing existing growth and weeds gives you a clean slate and ensures unnecessary plants are not competing for water and nutrients with newly planted seedlings,” adds Connie.
The soil in a vegetable garden works hard to provide nutrients to productive plants. So take time to ensure all the right elements are present, says horticulturist Helen Lovel of Neutrog Biological Fertilisers. “Most vegies prefer a neutral soil, so a pH of 7,” she says. ”Use a soil test kit to assess your soil pH and adjust with soil improvers/conditioners as needed.” Boosting the organic matter in your soil is also vital; it feeds and supports the biological life in the soil, including bacteria, fungi and worms. In turn, they enhance soil structure, increase water retention and promote nutrient availability for your plants. “Homemade compost is a fantastic source of organic matter,” advises Helen. “Alternatively, pelletised and composted soil improvers, like aged manures, can be bought in store and are also perfect for incorporating organic matter and beneficial microbes into the soil.” Before applying compost or manure, remove existing vegetation and scrape any mulch to one side or into a wheelbarrow to re-use once seedlings are planted. Spread compost or manure evenly in garden beds and dig in well. If the soil is compacted due to clay or foot traffic, use a garden fork or aerator to loosen and break it up.
Mulching makes a huge difference to plant growth and soil health. “Mulching regulates soil temperature and minimises moisture loss, while also suppressing weed growth,” explains Helen. A naturally derived mulch is ideal, as it breaks down over time, adding valuable organic matter to the soil. Helen recommends using a composted, biologically active mulch that contributes all the benefits of a mulch, plus gentle nutrients. “The important thing to remember is to water the ground before and after mulch is applied,” adds Helen.
For a bountiful harvest, top the soil with organic matter such as compost at the start of the growing season, says Connie Cao.
To help prevent blossom end rot – a physiological disorder that causes the bottom of the fruit to rot – Connie suggests adding a handful of dolomite lime to the soil before planting.
When transplanting tomato seedlings, plant them deeper than usual. “Tomatoes form roots along the length of the stem, so planting them deep will encourage them to grow a stronger root system,” says Connie. “Plant seedlings so only a few of the top leaves are exposed above the soil.”
Once established – typically after six weeks – feed plants regularly with a specific tomato and vegetable fertiliser.
Many vegetables take as long as 14-16 weeks to form a crop ready for harvest, occupying valuable space for an extended period. Here are six fast-maturing plants to kickstart the growing season.
1. Beans: Both dwarf and climbing forms are easy to grow. Climbers require a trellis for support but are a great way to make use of vertical space. Harvest time: 8-10 weeks.
2. Zucchini: This veg has a sprawling habit, so give it at least 90cm of growing space. One plant will produce dozens of zucchini throughout summer. Harvest time: 6-8 weeks.
3. Spinach: This superfood is the perfect leafy green for salads, sandwiches, sautés and smoothies. Snip leaves regularly to promote growth. Harvest time: 6-8 weeks.
4. Radish: While the crunchy roots are the star of this vegetable, the leaves can also be picked and used in salads. Harvest time: 4-6 weeks.
5. Lettuce: A compact veg that’s ideal for small spaces. Plus, loose-leaf varieties are a good ‘cut and come again’ option – simply pick outer leaves as needed. Harvest time: 6 weeks.
6. Cucumber: The vines grow best on a trellis, which improves airflow and keeps the fruit off the ground. Harvest time: 8-10 weeks or longer, depending on the variety.
Find more growing advice for every corner of the garden.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
