Dig it Up, Melbourne! Your Guide to August's Awesome Aussie Planting
Ah, Melbourne in August. The days are getting longer (praise the heavens!), but that winter chill still lingers like a rogue relative at a family gathering. Fear not, fellow flora fanatics! August is actually a prime time to get your green thumb twitching, because there's a bunch of brilliant stuff you can sow and grow.
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| What Can I Plant In August In Melbourne |
Seed Sowing Shenanigans: From Bench to Garden Bed
Lettuce Get Seedy! Yep, it's time for all your leafy green favourites. Spinach, rocket, mizuna – the whole salad crew will be waving their leafy tendrils at you in gratitude come spring.
Not Just for Salads: Don't stop at the leafy delights! Beets, carrots, parsnips, and radishes are all keen to get going underground. Just remember, these guys need a bit more space, so plan your garden bed layout accordingly.
Top Tip: Starting seeds indoors is a great way to get a head start, especially for those that love a bit of warmth. Think windowsills, greenhouses, or anywhere that gets a good dose of sunshine.
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Heat Seekers Need Extra TLC: Eggplant, capsicum, and chillies are the Usain Bolts of the veggie world – fast growers that need things a little balmy. If you don't have a heated greenhouse, consider starting them indoors with a heat mat for germination bliss.
Seedling Superstars: Ready, Set, Sprout!
Don't Wanna Wait? Not into the whole seed-sowing palaver? No worries! August is a great time to plant seedlings of all sorts. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage – you name it, your local garden centre probably has it.
Fruitastic Fun: Even your fruit trees are keen for some action! Bare-rooted apple, pear, peach, nectarine, and cherry trees are all available this time of year. Just remember, these guys take a little longer to get going, so be patient and enjoy the anticipation.
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Pro Tip: Planting seedlings is all about giving them the right environment to thrive. Make sure your soil is well-drained, give them a good watering in, and protect them from any harsh frosts (Melbourne can be a fickle friend!).
So You've Planted... Now What?
Water Wisely: While Melbourne might be emerging from winter, it's not exactly a rainforest just yet. Keep an eye on your new plant buddies and water them when the soil feels dry to the touch.
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Weed Warriors Assemble! Those pesky weeds will always try to steal the limelight. Keep on top of them by giving them the flick regularly.
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Sun Seekers vs Shade Dwellers: Remember, not all plants are created equal. Some love to bask in the sun's rays, while others prefer a bit of shade. Do a little research on your chosen crop to make sure they're getting the sun (or shade) loving they deserve.
FAQ: Your August Planting Questions Answered!
How to harden off seedlings? Before transplanting your precious seedlings outdoors, give them a taste of the fresh air for a few hours each day over a week. This helps them adjust to the harsher conditions of the great outdoors.
How much space do my plants need? This is a crucial question! Check the seed packet or seedling label for recommended spacing. Plants that are crowded become unhappy campers, so give them enough room to breathe and grow.
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How do I protect my plants from frost? If a sneaky frost threatens your delicate seedlings, you can use frost cloth or cloches to shield them from the icy blast.
How often should I fertilise? Generally, young plants don't need a lot of fertiliser. A good quality potting mix should have enough nutrients to get them started. You can always add a slow-release fertiliser later in the season.
How do I keep the bugs at bay? Companion planting is a great way to deter unwanted insects. Plant strong-smelling herbs like rosemary and thyme near your veggies to help keep the nasties away.
So there you have it, Melbourne! With a little planning and some elbow grease, you can be well on your way to a thriving garden come spring. Now get out there, get your hands dirty, and get ready to reap the rewards of your green-thumbed glory!
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