Jobs For Spring

September’s already upon us and spring fever is gripping gardeners and non-gardeners alike. It’s time to get nurturing.

- Jennifer Stackhouse

After a long, cold winter in cooler, temperate climates, it’s reassuring to see new shoots appearing. The first asparagus shoots in the vegetable garden is an exciting moment. Harvest them daily, as the spears quickly become tall and woody. Not so welcome are weed seedlings, which are also appearing now. Keep weeds under control around existing and new plantings by regularly hoeing the soil; also spread mulch to deter weed growth. Sow summer crops including chilli, capsicum, tomato, eggplant, cucumber, pumpkin, squash, zucchini and beans. Also plant lettuce and herbs, including basil, parsley and coriander. Potatoes, beetroot and carrot can be planted now in all areas. When planting potatoes, use certified disease-free seed potatoes (tubers). In areas that are still cold and where frosts are likely, hold off planting warm-season crops. Instead, sow broad beans, broccoli, English spinach and rocket.