Spring has arrived, and with it the spring equinox, which means longer days and more energy for renewal and growth. This is the perfect time to channel your inner gardener and transform your outdoor space into an explosion of colour. Just like the famous Miley Cyrus lyrics say (yes, we made it corny) “I Can Buy Myself Flowers,” there’s something deeply satisfying and empowering about planting your own blooms and watching them flourish.
This season, let’s dig into the soil and start sowing seeds for a garden that will be the envy of the neighbourhood. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the process of selecting seeds, preparing your soil, and planting for a breathtaking spring display.
Choosing the Right Seeds for Your Garden
The stars of any spring garden are the flowers, and choosing the right seeds is the first step to ensuring a vibrant and colourful garden. Here are some of the options that will make your garden pop:
Alyssum, Carpet of Snow: Known for its dense clusters of small, fragrant flowers, Alyssum is perfect for creating ground cover or edging your garden beds. Its white blooms will contrast beautifully with more vibrant flowers.
Pacific Beauty-Double Mix: This blend of calendulas offers a bright mix of yellows and oranges that will bring sunshine to your garden, even on cloudy days.
African Daisy Hybrid: These daisies are a hardy option that will thrive in the sunniest spots of your garden, producing large, bright flowers that attract pollinators.
California Poppy – Mixed: A mix of vibrant poppies in shades of orange, yellow, and red will add a wild, carefree feel to your garden, perfect for naturalistic planting schemes.
Marigold, Naughty Marietta and Lemon Drop: Marigolds are a staple in any garden, with their bright, sunny blooms that repel pests and add a splash of colour. The Naughty Marietta variety offers bold yellow flowers with maroon centres, while Lemon Drop provides a more subtle, soft yellow.
Livingstone Daisy: These daisy-like flowers come in a rainbow of colours and are perfect for sunny, well-drained spots. They open up in the sun and close at night, adding dynamic movement to your garden.
Nasturtium, Tall Climbing: These flowers are not only beautiful with their bright, edible flowers but are also great for filling in vertical spaces in your garden. Let them climb up trellises or spill over the edges of pots.
Pansy, Dream Giants: Pansies are beloved for their cheerful, face-like blooms that come in a variety of colours. They’re great for borders or containers and can withstand cooler spring temperatures.
Viola, Enchanted Evening and Crystal Palace Dark Blue: Violas are smaller cousins of pansies and are known for their delicate, dainty flowers. The Enchanted Evening variety offers a mix of pastel shades, while Crystal Palace Dark Blue provides deep, rich blue blooms that add a touch of elegance.
These seeds will be the heroes of your garden, offering a mix of colours, heights, and textures that will create a stunning spring display.
Preparing Your Soil: The Foundation of a Thriving Garden
A garden is only as good as its soil, and preparing your soil is a crucial step to ensure your seeds grow strong and healthy. Here’s how to get your soil ready for planting:
Compost: Start by enriching your soil with compost. Garden Master Organic Compost adds essential nutrients to the soil, improving its structure and water retention. Spread a layer of compost over your garden beds and mix it into the top few inches of soil. This will provide a nutrient-rich environment for your seeds to germinate and grow.
Potting Soil: If you’re planting in containers or pots, Garden Master’s Potting Soil is your go-to. This soil is specifically designed to provide the perfect balance of drainage and nutrients for potted plants. It’s especially important for seeds like Nasturtiums and Pansies that thrive in well-drained soil. Fill your pots with potting soil, leaving a little room at the top for watering.
3-Piece Hand Tool Set: Use Garden Master’s 3-Piece Hand Tool Set to break up the soil, remove weeds, and ensure that your planting area is free of debris. These tools are perfect for smaller tasks like loosening soil in pots or garden beds, ensuring that your seeds have the best start possible.
Proper soil preparation sets the stage for your seeds to thrive, giving them the nutrients and structure they need to grow into strong, healthy plants.
Sowing Your Seeds: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your soil is ready, it’s time to sow your seeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your garden blooms beautifully:
Seed Selection: Choose the seeds you want to plant based on your garden’s layout and the amount of sunlight each area receives. For instance, African Daisy Hybrids and Livingstone Daisies are perfect for sunny spots, while Violas and Pansies can tolerate some shade.
Seed Starter Kits: For an easy and efficient way to start your seeds, consider using Garden Master’s 12-Pod Universal Seed Starter Kit. This kit provides a controlled environment for your seeds to germinate, giving them the best chance of success. Simply fill each pod with potting soil, plant your seeds, and water them according to the instructions.
Sowing Depth: Different seeds require different sowing depths. As a general rule, plant seeds at a depth of two to three times their diameter. For smaller seeds like Alyssum and California Poppies, a light covering of soil will suffice, while larger seeds like Nasturtiums can be planted deeper.
Watering: Gently water your seeds after planting. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Consistent moisture is key to seed germination, so check your soil regularly and water as needed.
Labelling: To keep track of what you’ve planted, label your seed rows or pots. This will help you identify your plants as they grow and ensure that you provide the right care for each variety.
Transplanting: Once your seedlings have grown strong enough, you can transplant them into their final positions in your garden or larger pots. Use your hand tools to carefully lift the seedlings and place them into their new homes.
Maintaining Your Garden: Tips for Success
With your seeds planted, the work doesn’t stop there. Regular maintenance will ensure that your garden continues to thrive throughout the spring and into summer:
Watering: Keep your garden well-watered, especially during dry spells. Invest in a durable hosepipe that is long enough to reach all areas of your garden, as well as a sprinkler, so that your newly planted beds are watered evenly.
Fertilising: As your plants grow, they may need additional nutrients. A light feeding with a balanced fertiliser can help boost growth and flowering. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertiliser package to avoid overfeeding.
Weeding: Keep your garden free of weeds that can compete with your plants for nutrients and water. Regular weeding ensures that your flowers have the space and resources they need to flourish.
Your Spring Garden Awaits
Spring is the season of new beginnings. With the right seeds, soil preparation, and tools, you can create a garden that’s not only beautiful but also a true reflection of your effort and care. So, roll up your sleeves, dig into the soil, and watch as your garden comes to life this spring. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing your hard work bloom before your eyes.
Remember to share your gardening progress with us by tagging us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Visit your nearest Makro, Builders or Game for all the essentials. Happy gardening!
