Autumn in Melbourne: Ditch the Pumpkin Spice and Get Planting!
While the rest of the world is busy obsessing over pumpkin spice lattes (don't get me wrong, I'm a fan), Melbourne knows what's up. Autumn is here, and that means one thing: it's prime time to get your garden growing! But wait, haven't you heard? Summer is for planting! Wrong! While summer might be all sunshine and sandy toes, autumn in Melbourne offers the perfect blend of warm days and cool nights, making it the ultimate season to sow some seeds and reap some delicious rewards.
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| What To Grow In Autumn Melbourne |
So, what exactly should you be shoving in the soil this autumn?
Hold onto your hats (or floppy sunhats, depending on the Melbourne weather), because we're about to delve into a cornucopia of delectable options:
Leafy Green Gang: Lettuce, spinach, kale, bok choy - all these leafy legends thrive in the cooler autumn air. Imagine, fresh salads bursting with flavour, all thanks to your own backyard bounty! You'll be the envy of all your neighbours (and their slightly wilted supermarket greens).
Brassica Bonanza: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage - these guys love a bit of a chill. Plant them in early autumn and watch them transform into little green (or white) soldiers, ready to be deployed on your dinner plate. cauliflower
Rooting for Success: Beetroot, carrots, parsnips - these underground superstars love the cooler temperatures to develop their sweetness. Just remember, patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to these slow and steady growers. But the wait will definitely be worth it!
Herbs that Perk Up Your Cooking: Parsley, chives, thyme, rosemary - plant these fragrant friends in pots or a garden bed, and you'll have a constant supply of fresh herbs to elevate any dish. Fresh herbs are like magic sprinkles for your food - instant flavour boost!
Now, let's address the elephant in the room (or rather, the pot plant on the window sill). What about citrus fruits? While technically you can plant citrus trees in autumn, they'll need a bit of extra TLC to establish themselves before winter. So, if you're a seasoned gardener, go for it! But for newbies, maybe stick to the veggies this time around.
Don't forget the fun bits!
Gardening isn't just about back-breaking labour (although there might be some bending involved). It's about getting your hands dirty, nurturing life, and ultimately, enjoying the fruits (or vegetables) of your labour. Plus, it's a fantastic way to impress your mates at your next barbie. Imagine the bragging rights - "These snags? Yeah, I grilled them on the barbie I built myself, and the salad? Fresh from my garden, of course!"
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gardening gloves (or a rusty fork in a pinch) and get planting!
FAQ: Your Autumn Planting Questions Answered
How to prepare my soil for autumn planting?
Loosen up the soil, add some compost for extra nutrients, and make sure it has good drainage.
QuickTip: Scan the start and end of paragraphs.
How much sunlight do my plants need?
Do some research on the specific plants you're growing, but as a rule of thumb, most veggies will need around 6-8 hours of sunlight a day.
How often should I water my plants?
This depends on the weather and the type of plant. Generally, you'll want to water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry.
How do I keep pests away from my precious veggies?
There are lots of natural ways to deter pests, like using companion planting (planting certain herbs or flowers near your veggies to confuse the little buggers).
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
How do I harvest my veggies?
Again, this depends on the type of plant. But generally, you'll want to harvest veggies when they've reached their full size but before they start to get mushy.
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Happy planting, Melbourne!
Toronto to Calgary by Train: The Journey, Not the Destination (Unless the Destination is Epic Scenery) ️
Ah, the classic question for any budget traveller or scenery enthusiast: can you conquer Canada by train, Toronto to Calgary edition? Buckle up, because this isn't your average "yes or no" situation. It's a choose-your-own-adventure with a healthy dose of "well, that's not quite what I expected..."
The Straight Goods: Technically, there's no single train route that whisks you from Toronto's bustling streets to Calgary's majestic mountains. But fear not, intrepid explorer! VIA Rail Canada offers a route with a twist: Toronto to Edmonton, with a quick hop on a bus to Calgary. Yes, a bus. But hey, think of it as a scenic detour! This multi-stage adventure clocks in at around 3 glorious days, giving you ample time to:
- Bond with your fellow passengers: Train travel practically guarantees interesting conversations with strangers. You never know who you might meet - a lumberjack on vacation? A moose whisperer? The possibilities are endless!
- Become a connoisseur of cafeteria cuisine: Train food gets a bad rap, but let's be honest, half the fun is the mystery. Will today's surprise be a delightful medley of flavours or a culinary enigma? Embrace the adventure!
- Brush up on your Canadian geography: Gaze out the window at endless plains, towering mountains, and maybe even a rogue Tim Hortons (don't worry, you'll have plenty of opportunities to refuel on coffee and donuts).
Now, for the Disclaimers (Because We Like to Be Honest Here):
Tip: Context builds as you keep reading.
- This train journey isn't exactly a bullet train. Think of it as a leisurely meander through Canada's heartland. Perfect for unwinding, not ideal if you're short on time.
- Packing light is key. Three days on a train means mastering the art of living out of a carry-on. Think capsule wardrobe meets Canadian wilderness!
But wait, there's more! For those who crave a truly unique experience, consider this:
- The "Two Trains and a Moose Tour": Break up the journey by hopping off at a random station (Moose Jaw, anyone?) and exploring a hidden Canadian gem. You might just make some unforgettable memories (and avoid a potential staring contest with a disgruntled moose).
So, the answer is: Yes, with a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can experience Canada by train, Toronto to Calgary. Will it be the fastest route? Probably not. Will it be an unforgettable journey? Absolutely!
How ToFAQs:
How to book a train trip from Toronto to Calgary?
Check out VIA Rail Canada's website for routes, schedules, and to snag your tickets.
How long does the train trip take?
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
The train journey from Toronto to Edmonton takes about 2.5 days, with an additional bus ride to Calgary adding a few more hours.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary depending on the season and the type of ticket you choose, but expect to pay a few hundred dollars.
How do I pack for a train trip across Canada?
Pack light and versatile clothing for all types of weather. Layers are your friend! Don't forget some entertainment options like books, games, or a good old-fashioned notebook for journaling.
How do I deal with potential boredom on a long train journey?
Embrace the slow pace! Chat with fellow passengers, read a book, watch the scenery go by, or play some travel games. Think of it as a digital detox and a chance to reconnect with the world outside the internet.
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