A Quick Lesson in Caring for Plants
It seems that some people can plant almost anything in their garden and it will flourish without much attention, while others spend time and money tending to their plantings only to see them wither and die. Our grandparents would have said that the successful gardener had “green thumbs”. Now we realise that putting the right plants in the right places during the right season was probably the reason for that success.
Beautiful Landscaping Needs the Right Plants
Our customers come to us for landscaping materials like mulches and decorative rocks, as well as various soils and compost. A lot of money, time and effort go into creating a beautifully landscaped garden. Here at Bacchus Marsh Redgum & Garden Centre, many of our customers are do-it-yourself types doing the hard work.
We hate to see them put in all that effort only to hear that the plants they used in the new garden failed to flourish. It is in our interests that they succeed, as their plantings will draw attention to our landscaping materials. Here are some “do’s and don’ts” that may help when choosing plants.
Correct Placement Essential for Plants to Thrive
Before buying any plants, look at your garden and identify the areas that are always in the sun, always in the shade, exposed to harsh winter winds, or are in difficult places like high traffic areas. Then ask the local nursery to show you those varieties that are the most suitable for these areas. Plants purchased from nurseries have tags in each pot with all the information you will need to choose the right spot in your garden.
Follow the Planting Instructions
Now that you have the right plants for the different conditions in your garden, follow the planting instructions. You may need to gently tease out the roots if they have been in a pot too long. Some plants can tolerate poor quality soil, while others need mulch or a soil conditioner to loosen and treat the garden soil.
Fertilise with Care – Watch for Signs of Overwatering
Be careful about the type of fertiliser you use, again following the instructions. Many native varieties, for example, do not respond well to certain fertilisers, and some find phosphorous lethal. All plants need nutrients to thrive so do not assume that just placing them in soil will be enough. Water is the other vital element, but again, get to know your plants. Some love damp soil but others cannot tolerate wet soil, for instance, and will rot in the ground.
Zap Those Pests
Finally, watch for pests that, if left unchecked, can decimate some foliage in a matter of days. Where possible, use natural control methods, or you risk killing off natural predators, thus creating an imbalance in your immediate environment.
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