ATG Group Co-ordinator & Advertising: Jason Searle
New releases p4
Spring Flowers
Climbers
• Faster & stronger new plant establishment.
• Improves soils & adds nutrients.
• Feeds plants for 6 months.
see what’s new at your local gardening outlet
Sprinkle Petunia ‘Cherry
Sky’ through garden beds and in hanging baskets and containers for a constellation of vibrant colour for spring. Excellent weather resistance and flowers freely.
Ideal potting mix and soluble fertiliser to bring on the spring burst of blooms <<
Loropetalum ‘Plum Gorgeous’
A hardy and effortless performer during spring and summer. Best in a full sun position. When not in flower the deep plum coloured foliage creates colour contrast all year round. Great for informal hedging and container planting in tubs to suit small spaces. A moist well drained soil will give best results, although once established, it is dry tolerant.
Alstroemerias, also known as the Princess or Peruvian Lilly, form a low maintenance clump when established. They bring a burst of colour to your garden and make excellent cut flowers. Gardening outlets will have a variety of these perennials available in stores. Long flowering and drought tolerant, they make a great cut flower in the vase or garden display.
Lavinnova ‘The Princess’ Lavender
Crowned ‘Plant of the Year’ Australian bred, world renowned Lavender.
‘The Princess’ is an earlyflowering lavender that is famous for bearing eye catching electricpink flower heads that provide a long-lasting display throughout spring and early summer, with spot flowering continuing throughout summer and autumn. Perfect for mass plantings in gardens or container displays.
La Diva Lavender ‘Berry beautiful’
Loveheart lavender
Its candy pink flowers are easy to flower, vigorous and upright, ideal for low hedging or as a garden/patio feature. With highly fragrant flowers and foliage, plants are ideal for the herb garden and well suited to picking for indoor decoration or potpourri.
Grow in a sunny, well drained position. Liquid feed with Searles Flourish Soluble Plant Food - Flowers & Foliage in spring and summer & prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Protect from heavy frost. Great heat tolerance.
The latest addition to the La Diva Lavender, with their extremely large, extra beautiful flower spike. Italian type with very long deep purple flowers is a striking addition to the range of La Diva Lavenders which include, the Imperial English and Papillion Italian.
Salvia ‘Blue Chill’
Chill out this spring with a great warm weather garden performer, Salvia ‘Blue Chill’. This branching, heat-hardy bloomer offers light, refreshed blue hue blooms spikes for landscapes, garden beds and mixed containers displays during spring and summer.
Attracts bees and butterflies. For garden planting, use Searles Planting Mix for premium results. Potted displays will perform well when planted in Searles Platinum Potting Mix. Liquid feed fortnightly with Searles Flourish Soluble Plant FoodFlowers & Foliage to improve flowering.
Salvia Rockin’ ‘Deep Purple’ is a hardy, upright shrub with bright green foliage which contrasts beautifully with the black stems and calyxes of the tall flowers spikes and vivid purple petals. In warmer climates, ‘Deep Purple’ can be treated as perennial that will only slow its flowering in the coldest few weeks of the year. In colder climates with frosts, ‘Deep Purple’ is a favourite annual.
This variety is at home in a range of gardens, from a free-ranging cottage style to more formally organised landscapes. Use it in sunny or shaded gardens as a border plant or in a landscape spread singularly, in drifts of colour, or mass-planted.
Salvia Unplugged ‘Pink’ is a hardy shrub that loves heat, tolerates dry periods, and doesn’t mind humidity. The dark green foliage contrasts beautifully with the dark stems and true-pink petals of the tall, stately flower spikes. In warmer climates, Unplugged ‘Pink’ can be treated as perennial that will only slow its flowering in the coldest few weeks of the year. In colder climates with frosts, it is a favourite annual. Suits cottage style gardens or as border plants. Lovely as fresh cut floral arrangements.
There are many reasons to love this beautiful happy wanderer. Its beautiful violet flowers that contrast dramatically against their dark green foliage make excellent fence covers and quickly cascade down a pergola structure. Fast growing, low maintenance, flower heavily and will be happy in sun or shade.
Highly versatile Australian native, coastal rosemary, has a compact, bushy habit featuring soft dancing white or lilac flowers on fine foliage in spring. Perfect for cottage gardens or formal gardens as a hedge, screening or shaped bush. An easy care and fast-growing shrub that is great for coastal areas withstanding wind, sea spray and dry soil. Will tolerate light frost once established.
Carex ‘Everest’
Carex oshimensis ’Everest’ is a superb ground cover and container plant with distinctive cascading white striped foliage. It is easy to grow, low maintenance, and forms a neat easily controlled mound. A great edging plant or stand alone feature grass.
In spring there are many gorgeous deciduous fruit and ornamental trees in full display of flowers and fresh foliage.
These spring blossoms are essential to keep track of on your fruit trees as pollination of these flowers must take place for fruit to form. If you have ever thought about starting a garden diary, now is the time to do it! Jot down when each fruit tree begins to flower, and whether its’ pollination partner (if required) is also flowering. Check throughout the day to see if you can observe any pollinators on or around the tree. In the absence of clear days while your fruit tree is in flower, you may find that fruit set is poor because pollinators can’t do their job in unfavourable conditions.
You should also look for signs of flowers dropping prematurely and try to identify environmental changes that could have caused this to happen. Some examples are hail, extreme wind, or heavy rain. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot you can do about this, but at least you won’t be left wondering if you don’t have a whopper harvest!
Deciduous trees that have been recently planted in winter can stay dormant for a long time. Keep an eye on the buds to see if there is any activity as the weather warms. If you’re not sure that the tree is alive, scratch the bark with your fingernail. If it’s green underneath, it’s alive – if brown, the area you have scratched is dead. Keep scratching further down the tree until you find green and prune to this point. Your tree will bounce back faster than if you leave all of the dead/dying material in place!
One of the earliest deciduous fruit trees you can harvest is the delectable apricot. There are many self-pollinating varieties suited to different areas of Australia, with the main harvest season being late spring (November) to summer (February). The traditional areas for growing apricots are cool and warm temperate climates.
In these areas, Moorpark apricot is an absolute cracker with rich flavour. You could also try Trevatt for an old-fashioned mid-season variety. Storey’s apricot is a good choice for gardeners who want the rich Moorpark flavour and a touch earlier in the season. Finally, Fireball™ is a newer variety with a traditional flavour, ripening mid-season, and is suitable to warmer climates. Whilst it isn’t suitable for subtropical or warmer coastal climates, it can fruit very successfully in areas where other varieties are less reliable, for example in Sydney and Perth.
spring time brings the floral displays
All these varieties are now available on dwarfing rootstocks making them suitable for small spaces and growing in pots.
Discover the transformative power of climbers; the perfect solution for narrow gardens. Whether you’re seeking a tall screen, a chic addition to an old fence, or a clever way to hide a shed, climbers are your go-to-plant. Often associated with jasmine or other common varieties, the world of climbers is a vast and diverse one. Let’s delve into some exciting plant options.
Clematis montana
Clematis montana (close up)
Wisteria
Allamanda cathartica
Before you start, ensure you have a sturdy trellis firmly embedded into the ground to support your chosen climber. The first decision is the growing position: sunny or shady? If it’s a sunny spot, you have a wide range of plant choices. But what about shady areas? Many immediately think of ivy or Hedra varieties (which are poisonous), but there are numerous other readily available options. For instance, Clematis montana is a lovely climber with stunning white flowers that thrive in the shade. Creeping ficus or Ficus pumila doesn’t even require a trellis but attaches itself to the wall, rock, or fence. Pothos or Epipremnum, with its many different varieties, varying in leaf size and colour as well as overall height, is also suitable for shade. Cissus has a few different types, such as Cissus antarctica or kangaroo vine or Cissus discolor
Climbing plants don’t necessarily need to climb upwards. Climbers can be planted in planting baskets to create a living curtain or as an accent feature.
Once you’ve decided on the position, consider whether you want an evergreen climber or a deciduous one. A deciduous plant is perfect for a pergola, providing shelter in the summer and a burst of winter sun when the leaves fall. Some deciduous climbers, like Parthenocissus or wild vine, offer the most delightful leaf colour when they fall. And let’s not forget wisteria, available in several shades from purple to mauve and even white, making it a versatile choice for many gardens. Just keep an eye on wisteria, as it has a tendency to spread. Grape vines can be of the fruiting variety or simply ornamental, adding a little extra to a pergola or archway. And of course, there are fruiting climbers like passionfruit, kiwi fruit, berries, and sweet potatoes.
Another question is height. Not all climbers are tall growers. Always read the labels for their growth height. Some climbers struggle to attain a metre length, whereas others can stretch to eight metres. If no height is clearly given, ask the nursery person or research yourself. A miniature bougainvillea can reach three metres, and to some, this may not seem miniature, but a fullsize variety can climb up a eucalyptus to over eight metres.
Always check your area as some plants can be considered a weed in some regions. A weed is just a plant growing in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Coral vine
Cardinal creeper
Pothos
Banksia rose
The name kangaroo paws evokes the image of one of the most captivating native plants. With 12 species, including the iconic Anigozanthos and its relative, the black kangaroo paw, Macropidia fuliginosa, each one is a testament to nature’s creativity. The black kangaroo paw, in particular, is a challenge to propagate by seed, making its commercial use a testament to human ingenuity through tissue culture. Anigozanthos, on the other hand, can be propagated by division (as they are a rhizome) or seed, offering a more accessible route for enthusiasts.
Kangaroo paws flourish in a full sun position in welldrained soil, typically in temperate climate zones. Their nemesis is waterlogged soil, which can lead to fungal issues and even death. Ink spot or ink disease is a common issue with kangaroo paws, often stemming from watering problems. Large black blotches on the leaves are a telltale sign of ink spots and can be challenging to treat. Damaged leaves should be removed, bagged, and binned. Treatment with Copper Oxychloride may only slow the issues if the initial incorrect watering is not addressed. If ink spot persists, removal of the infected plant is necessary.
treat ink spot early
Some species of kangaroo paws are considered short-lived or only at their best for three to five years, so replacing them with fresh, clean stock is not a significant issue. More disease-resistant strains are being bred to minimize ink spots. A heavy cutback in late winter can also help mask ink spots once the watering problem is under control, as the new leaves return a lovely, lush green. Many kangaroo paws are dormant in winter, or they may appear to have completely died
back, but since they have a rhizome root system, they are still alive. After a cut, a controlled-release fertiliser such as Robust Native Plant fertiliser, a 6-month fertiliser perfect for these plants, should be applied. It is crucial not to overwater when the plants are dormant and start up fungal issues. Reapply Robust Native Plants in late spring for optimal results.
They can be grown well in pots kept in the full sun and potted in Native Plant Specialty Mix. This same mix can also be used when planting them in the garden. For division, it is best to do this in late summer and into autumn before the plant enters dormancy. When replanting, add some Native Plant Specialty Mix to give extra organic matter to the plants and water in well with Seamax; beware of snails and slugs lurking around the base of the plants, as they can cause damage to the leaves.
Kangaroo paws are not just visually appealing, but they also attract a variety of birds with their nectar, creating a harmonious ecosystem in the garden. Spring and summer are when they shine, offering a stunning array of colours and plant heights, thanks to their breeding. The overall height for kangaroo paws can vary, so it’s important to read the labels carefully when selecting. Anigozanthos flavidus, known for its height, is a tough variety. The Anigozanthus Bush Gem Collection is a fantastic selection of smaller growing varieties boasting an excellent colour range.
Kangaroo paws love Mediterranean climates
From the ‘Bush Gem’ collection
Heirloom tomato time is just around the corner. When it comes to variety, you can’t go past Diggers Heirloom Selections. New to the seedling range this year are three 2024 Tomato Taste Test Winners.
‘Black Cherry’ was the winner of the Cherry Tomato Category, as well as the overall Heirloom Tomato Winner. A standout at the taste test and aptly named for their dark juicy sweet fruit that resemble cherries, this American heirloom offers a flavour profile like no other. Whilst still firm, the fruit changes from green to mahogany-brown colour. If eaten at this stage, it is both sweet and tart. Once the fruit deepens to brown and the flesh becomes tender, the flavour deepens and develops more complexity with a lovely smokey-sweet flavour that’s to die for. In fact, this tomato even rated above ‘Tommy Toe’ in one of our taste tests. Strong vigorous plants with excellent disease resistance. Yields up to 7.5kg per plant.
‘Barry’s Crazy Cherry’ was the People’s Choice Winner with adults and children alike professing their adoration of the profuse (really – crazy!) clusters of yellow fruit that change in flavour from tart to sweet as they ripen. Simply delicious, ripe fruit has been compared to a sweet muscat (but without the alcohol!). Fruiting in just 14 weeks and yielding more than 3kg per plant, one plant goes a long way.
‘Costoluto Genevese’ is an incredibly old heirloom tomato with a history dating back over 400 years to Calabria, Italy, was the Diggers Choice. Part of the Saucing and Beefsteak Tomato Category, it won the staff taste test hands down, with sweet dense flesh and an excellent flavour profile. A must-have for all cooks, the meaty ribbed texture is ideal for preserving and sauces, or just enjoy it sliced and eaten fresh. Fruits in 13 weeks from transplant and yields fruits around 300g each tomato.
This spring sees the exciting release of the Iconic Chilli Collection from The Diggers Club. Available in late spring, try your hand at growing some of the most popular culinary chillies in the world. From Spain comes ‘Pimientos de Padron’, a small mild chilli that’s perfect for tapas and has a stellar surprise (one in 10 chillies is actually super hot!); ‘Anaheim’, from Mexico via the U.S, is popular for stuffing; ‘Serrano’ is a hotter version of Jalapeno and ideal for spicy salsa and guacamole; and ‘Tabasco’ and ‘Sriracha’ are two iconic hot sauces you can grow and make at home. This new chilli range comes with a QR code to a recipe on the label.
Tomato ‘Black Cherry’
Tomato ‘Barry’s Crazy Cherry’
Tomato ‘Costoluto Genevese’
‘Pimientos de Padron’ ‘Sriracha’
Tomatoes like an open, sunny site with deep soil, excellent drainage and protection from wind. The smaller varieties can grow well in large pots or tubs. Taller varieties will need staking, preferably at planting stage to avoid damaging existing roots. For cooler climates, delay planting until late spring. Mix 5 IN 1 Organic Fertiliser into existing soil at least 2 weeks before planting. Feed tomatoes with SeaMax Organic Fertiliser fortnightly to feed their developing fruit.
Sweet potatoes, with their versatile nature, can be grown by either planting a sweet potato from the supermarket or buying one already with sprouts from a nursery. For gardeners seeking a unique ground cover, some varieties are grown for their attractive lime or purple leaves. While not abundant in edible crops, these varieties are developed for their foliage and can be used as a ground cover or a hanging plant, adding a touch of vibrancy to your garden.
For sweet potatoes bought at the supermarket, make a mound in the garden, lay it flat on the ground and only half cover it with soil. This will assist in it not getting too wet and rotting, the main reason for the plant not flourishing. Use Searles Herb & Vegetable Specialty Mix, which has excellent draining properties and contains 9 months of control release fertiliser. This mix is suitable for the garden to create the mound to grow your sweet potato.
A sudden bout of wet weather after a dry period can cause ripening tomatoes to split. This can also be caused by irregular watering. Keep moisture levels consistent by watering tomatoes regularly at the roots and keeping them well mulched to suppress weeds and to reduce fungal infestations. Watch out for pests and disease and treat promptly before the whole plant is affected. For more on tomato pest and disease treatment, visit the Searles website by scanning the QR code here.
Growing a plant from the nursery that has already sprouted is straightforward. Simply plant it in the garden or a container. If you choose to grow in a container, ensure it is large enough for the sweet potato to develop, using a pot at least 40cm or larger.
reshoot, but the leaf colour is spectacular.
The leaves eventually turn yellow to signal it is time to harvest. Growing sweet potatoes is for the patient gardener as it can take up to 4-6 months to harvest a crop. If growing for a delightful foliage groundcover or hanging basket, they will eventually need to be replanted or wait until they reshoot, but the leaf colour is spectacular.
Ornamental sweet potato make vibrant foliage
Strawberries will crop throughout spring and summer with many varieties continuing through autumn.
Raspberries are generally available throughout garden retailers in cooler climates and ready to plant in winter and, depending on the variety, flower and fruit at different times from late spring to late autumn. Support shrub with a trellis.
Mulberries are hardy in most parts of Australia. They generally grow as tall as a tree, but dwarf varieties suitable for pots and small gardens are available in garden centres. The red fruit develop to their distinctive purple colour quickly in early spring in tropical and subtropics regions and more gradually in cooler regions giving these regions an extended harvest period.
Blueberries love warm days and cool nights. Depending on where you live in Australia white belled shaped flowers start appearing on the bush in spring, followed by fruit a month or two later. Generally, blueberry bushes flower earlier in Queensland and Northern NSW compared to their southern states.
Citrus care after fruiting
After fruiting has finished and before flowering occurs, reduce fruit tree by a fifth by pruning back over-reaching or unwanted branches, gall wasp affected branches, dead, diseased, crossed over or low branches touching the soil. This will create better airflow underneath the canopy and concentrate growth into younger more productive branches.
Once the fruit tree is harvested for its fruit, it is busy producing the next season buds, flowers and growth. Feed them with Searles Fruit & Citrus Plant Food in early spring and again at the start of summer for strong growth.
Watch out for scale and citrus leaf miner and treat with Searles Ecofend Fruit & Garden spray
New trees can be planted now too.
Give berries a sunny position with good drainage and plenty of rich well composted soil. Strawberries can be planted in hanging baskets so their fruit over hang, easy to pick. For berries in pots, plant in Searles Fruit, Citrus & Rose Specialty Mix
Even if you have limited garden space, a passionfruit vine can provide not only two delicious fruit crops a year but also beautiful, shiny green foliage and breathtakingly ornamental, purple and white flowers. All this in a vertical growing space!
Passionfruit have a climbing habit and can become very heavy when laden with fruit. They require ample room and a strong structure for support. Fences, pergolas, trellises and chook runs all make great support structures. In preparing the soil for planting, be aware that passionfruit must have excellent drainage as they are susceptible to phytophthora root rot. If drainage is a problem, add gypsum and plenty of organic matter such as Searles Premium Compost to the soil. The best time of year to plant out your vines is between October and April. Once planted, water in well with SeaMax Organic Fertiliser and mulch thickly. Make sure your chosen position is in full sun and is protected from strong winds and frost.
Place
While
Once
Ingredients
400g chicken thighs, thinly sliced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
5 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
1 red capsicum, sliced
5cm piece young ginger, finely sliced
150g button mushrooms, sliced
2 spring onions, cut into batons
sesame seeds
steamed rice to serve
Prepare
Marinade: 1 tbsp sweet soy sauce
½ tsp pepper
Stir-fry sauce:
2 tbsp oyster sauce
2 ½ tsp fish sauce
1 tsp sugar
Combine the marinade ingredients with the chicken in a bowl. In a separate bowl combine ingredients for the stir-fry sauce.
Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add the garlic, capsicum and ginger and stir-fry for half a minute. Add the chicken and stir-fry until almost cooked.
Add the mushrooms and stir-fry for another half a minute. Then add the stir-fry sauce until just combined and the chicken is cooked. Toss through the spring onions.
Serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Ingredients
500g medley of tomatoes, roughly chopped
1/2 tsp castor sugar
pinch salt
2 x 100g burrata or (2 mozzarella balls), roughly chopped
2 or 3 tbsp of pesto sauce
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
handful basil
Prepare
Toss tomatoes with pinch of salt and the sugar, then leave to marinate for 30 mins.
Tip the tomatoes onto a serving platter. Top with the burrata, then drizzle olive oil, balsamic vinegar and pesto and toss through.
Serve
Top with ripped basil leaves to serve.
TOP DRESSING LAWN TIPS
Spring is the ideal time to top dress lawns to take advantage of the warm weather rapid growth. Whether you are filling in holes, evening out lawns or adding nutrients to the soil for better growth, applying a 1-2cm even layer of Searles Top Dressing will revitalise lawn appearance and set your lawn up for strong spring growth.
Searles Top Dressing is a finely screened blend, which adds slow release fertiliser and water absorption technology to encourage the production of new grass shoots and strengthen roots resulting in a thicker greener lawn. A thicker and regularly mown lawn will smother out weeds, reducing the use of chemical spraying.
Before applying, mow lawn the day prior. Add a 1-2cm layer of mix over the grass and rake evenly. Don’t fully cover green leaves, ensure grass tips remain exposed. Water well after raking to bed down the soil.
A question many gardeners wonder after they have sprayed a selective herbicide, see it wither and die and a month or two later spy it sprouting again. It is not the original plant you sprayed, but its offspring. With selective herbicides (the ones you use on lawns), it will state on the packet which weeds it will target and kill. These weeds take in the herbicide and die, and it can take up to two mowing cycles. That means if you mow weekly it will take two weeks to have an effect and if you mow every three weeks you will see its affect in six weeks. You spray, they die.
Increase water penetration in lawns.
Now a few months later you see them again, these are the seeds they produced, now sprouting. Every time you see a clover, creeping clover, bindi, dandelion, oxalis, or thistle growing, it is often the flower that draws your attention. Those flowers quickly turn to seed and spread through the lawn. They hitchhike on shoes, mower tyres, blown in or from birds, insects or animals ‘bringing in seeds. Those seeds can sit dormant until the conditions suit them with warmth or rain to start to germinate.
It is not the parent plant that has resprouted but the thousands of seeds they have distributed. That is why on many selective herbicides they may say to respray at a set time. This is to get the germinated weeds before they are mature enough to develop seeds themselves.
This is why it is important to spray weeds before flowering and seeding to break the cycle. For the majority, it is a repeated process but you will see the numbers decreasing over time. stop lawn dry-out
Have you ever noticed the creeping oxalis, the yellow flower with a clover like leaf in your pots, gardens, and lawns. They have explosive seed pods, which contain 5 compartments and within each compartment there are several seeds, this is just from one flower alone. It only takes one flower to ripen and they fling the seeds with force to start the chain of events. This is why they are so hard to get rid of, you kill the parent plant but the seed can sit and wait for optimal conditions to torture you again.
allzones
spring planting & care guide
> Zucchini enjoy the warmer weather to fruit. Only one type of zucchini should be grown at any one time as crosspollination between different varieties can affect fruit quality. To keep a continual supply, plant an extra 1 plant every month over the warm season. In spring and autumn, give zucchini full sun; in summer, semi-shade. Zucchini likes a well-composted, deep soil that has been heavily manured the season before. Ensure good drainage. Dig the soil over to a depth of 15cm, adding plenty of 5 IN 1 Organic Fertiliser. Compact varieties can be grown in containers. Powdery mildew can effect cucurbits, so treat with Mancozeb Plus at first sight.
GOLDEN CORN
Plant sweet corn in rows in warmer climates in spring. Wait until summer for cooler areas. Plant in blocks for better pollination. Maintain a regular watering regime for good growth and watch out for corn earworm.
> Cucumbers can be planted all year in the tropics, in spring and summer in the subtropics and from late spring to summer in the cool temperate climates after the last frosts. Enrich the soil with plenty of compost before planting and water regularly to keep the fruit sweet.
> Melons such as, watermelon, rockmelon and honeydew can be planted in the ground with plenty of space once the soil warms up. To avoid a watery-tasting crop, minimise watering as fruit approaches maturity.
Control anthracnose avocadoes with Searles Copper Oxychloride
Apply every 28 days from flowering until harvest. In prolonged wet weather apply every 14 days.
> Before planting spring veggies, mix into existing soil a good dose of 5 IN 1 Organic Fertiliser. Plant warm season vegetables such as, tomato, capsicum, beetroot, beans & carrot. In warmer areas, sweet corn, zucchini, pumpkin, cucumber and beans can also be planted from early spring. For cooler areas, hold off planting these until mid to late spring.
> Plants are hungry feeders in spring. Sprinkle 5 IN 1 Organic Fertiliser Pellets around gardens, lawns and fruit trees to enrich the soil with well composted manures and nutrients for healthy organic growth.
Aphids commonly appear on flushes of new growth on vegetables. For large infestations, organically spray with Searles Ecofend Vegetable & Garden Insect & Mite spray. Edible
Deciduous fruit trees like apples, pears and stone fruit do more than bear delicious crops. Each spring, they put on a magnificent display of blossoms. There’s no need for warmclimate gardeners to miss out, with low-chill and ‘tropical’ apple and peach trees now available.
> Spray mangoes with Searles Mancozeb fungicide after flowering to protect them from anthracnose - a common cause of fruit drop. Spray passionfruit with Searles Bug Beater, a natural pyrethrum spray to control sucking and chewing pests.
> Top tip. If possums are a problem in the vegetable patch, string some twinkling fairy lights around the area to deter them.
> As the soil warms up, fruit trees such as, mangoes, citrus, olives, apricots, coconuts, almonds, mulberries, blueberries, peaches, passionfruit, pineapple and figs can be planted. Ensure the winter deciduous varieties have started new growth. Winter deciduous stock should be planted in winter.
> Peas grow well in spring all throughout Australia. Whether you pick a climbing or bush variety, support their growing habit by installing a trellis. Plant in compost enriched soil. Water bushes regularly at the base of the plant to promote consistent pod production and to reduce the risk of powdery mildew. Pick young and often to encourage more flowers.
> Another crop of leafy greens can be planted and harvested before summer. Plant lettuce, asian greens, spinach, kale and swiss chard. Continue planting succession crops of leafy greens. Monitor watering regime as with the warmer weather, you may need to increase watering slightly for faster and tastier growth.
RECYCLED SEEDLINGS PROTECTOR
The bottoms fallen out of your hanging basket? Repurpose the remaining frame by wiring some fine mesh or shadecloth to protect valuable seedlings from pests.
Warmer weather brings fruit fly which sting the fruit of tomatoes, capsicum, citrus, passionfruit, apples, pears, citrus, figs & stone fruit. Place fruit fly traps in orchards or veggie gardens. The traps will kill the male flies stopping the breeding cycle and also indicate fruit flies are around.
allzones
aboutflowers
spring planting & care guide
> Prune hibiscus in early September and fertilise with Searles Hibiscus & Bougainvillea Plant Food. If you live in the tropics or subtropics, beware of hibiscus beetle in flower buds. Control infestations by spraying with Searles Conguard
> Scented beauties for spring time; port wine magnolia, rondeltia amoena, lavender, daphne & native frangipani.
Warmer Climates
• Canna
• Hibiscus
• Heliconia
• Poinciana
• Hydrangea
• Bauhinia
• Buddleja
• Prostanthera
> After purchasing seedlings, transplant seedlings into their final location within a day or two after purchasing. Always water your seedlings in after planting and keep the soil slightly moist until the plant is established in its new position. Protect seedlings from birds, snails and slugs, which love tender shoots, with cloches, cloth covers or snail pellets until they are established and have started to grow bigger. Shade covers will also protect seedlings from extremes of temperatures.
native frangipani
> Watch out for blackspot, spider mite & budworm on roses. Treat with Searles Rose Pro RTU Blackspot & Insect Killer. Spray thoroughly including undersides of foliage. Commence spraying when new shoots emerge in spring or at first sign of insects or disease. Repeat at 14 day intervals if required. Two-spotted mites may require more frequent applications.
> Although each daylily flower only lasts a day, it is usually replaced by another on the same stem the following day. Daylilies benefit from being kept moist and well fed, so mulch well and use Searles Flourish - Flowers & Foliage to boost blooms. Plant in full sun. Daylilies grow happily in dry, welldrained or boggy soils. They cope with drought, frost, windy and seaside conditions and have little trouble with pests and disease.
• Azalea
• Metrosideros
• Leptospermum
• NSW Christmas Bush
• Rhondeletia amoena
Cooler Climates
• Azalea
• Rhododendron
• Camellia
• Waratah
• Ornamental Peach
• Lavender
• Pittosporum
• Photinia
clivea
• Tabebuia
• Illawarra Frame
• Lavender
• Salvia
• Clivea
• Jasmine
• Malus
• Prunus
• Daphne
• Michelia
• Flowering quince
• Smoke bush
• Mock orange (Philadelphus coronarius)
NOTE: This may vary in different climatic zones.
ornamental peach
beautifulbougs
The popularity of bougainvilleas in Australian gardens comes as little surprise. These hardy climbers will bring dazzling colour, via their ‘bracts’, to your garden throughout the year, even in the face of severe neglect or drought. Bougainvilleas are also versatile. Traditionally a climber, bougainvilleas can be trained to behave like shrubs, trees – even hedges. Bougainvilleas also make spectacular hanging basket and pot displays.
Bougainvilleas are available in most shades of the spectrum, red, pink, orange, white, gold, yellow and warm purple. It is their ‘bracts’ that display all the colour and the tiny white flowers inside pale in comparison. There are also varieties with variegated foliage, so carefully choose your bougainvilleas to suit the look and colour scheme that you want.
‘Bambino’ bougs are a collection of new bougainvillea selected for their smaller growth habit and superior flowering. ‘Bambino’ Bougs come in a range of vibrant colours and varieties suitable for enhancing pot plants, courtyards, patios, balconies, hanging baskets and mass planting. A rewarding low maintenance plant for a well drained soil in a sunny position.
spring roses
Encourage strong spring growth and blooms by applying a complete plant food, Searles Rose & Flower Food, at the start of spring and fortnightly liquid feed with Searles Flourish Soluble Plant Food - Flowers & Foliage.
Now is the time to fertilise native plants, but only use fertilisers specifically designed for natives, such as Searles Native Plant Food. Native plant foods are low in phosphorus, which is ideal for plants such as grevilleas, proteas and banksias.
Lavender is hardy and resistant to disease as well as being stylishsuiting most garden or landscape styles, enjoying enduring popularity. Lavender needs full sun to grow and flower well. Lavender traditionally comes from a dry, Mediterranean climate and dislikes humidity. If you live in a warm or cool temperate climate you should be able to grow most lavenders. However, some modern hybrids have an increased resistance to humidity given the correct conditions. In warm climates, choose varieties from the French, Italian and Spanish family.
Azaleas and rhododendrons are hitting their full display power in early spring, through to early summer. Azaleas have a large species range, varying in colour, size and lighting requirements, guaranteeing to suit almost any area of your garden. Rhododendrons have similar growing requirements and are more commonly grown successfully in cooler regions. Enquire at your local garden centre for the best varieties.
When planting azaleas & rhododendrons, remember that they love an acidic soil, rich in organic matter. Improve the soil by planting into Searles Azalea & Camellia Specialty Mix. This will give them the right mix of nutrients and pH for a great start and strong, healthy growth.
Understanding nematodes is crucial for every gardener. Contrary to popular belief, not all nematodes are harmful; some are actually beneficial. However, there are a few types that have earned nematodes a bad reputation. One such nematode is the root knot nematode, a parasite that feeds off the roots and produces the growths or knots you may notice when removing a plant. These knots restrict the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients, leading to weakened plants and reduced productivity.
Home gardeners play a crucial role in managing nematodes. In the past, nematicides, which are products designed to kill nematodes, were available. However, these have been withdrawn from the market, placing the responsibility of nematode control on cultural practices.
It’s often too late when you finally see the reason for your plants’ decline. The symptoms of nematodes can be mistaken for many other causes, such as wilting, yellowing, or even death. Since nematodes are hidden underground, they often go unnoticed until the damage is severe. The warmer months are when they are most prevalent, and so to avoid disappointment, it’s crucial to take preventive measures.
Crop rotation is a key strategy in nematode control. This involves planting a different crop in the same area consecutively. The eggs of root knot nematodes can live in the soil for up to a year. Crops commonly attacked by nematodes, such as tomatoes, should not be planted in the same garden each year, but they should have two or three beds and be moved around. This way, the soil has had other crops in it, and the root knot nematode eggs have failed by the time the next crop of the susceptible is planted. If you haven’t got the garden space, grow the crop in containers in fresh potting mix for a season. Companion planting will also help to deter nemotode activity.
Incorporate manures, compost, or organic fertiliser into the soil before each planting and always use a mulch. These organic materials not only provide essential nutrients for your plants but also improve soil structure and promote beneficial soil organisms, including nematode predators.
Look for varieties of plants bred to be nematode-resistant. Consider plants that are not as suspectable to root knot nematodes such as broccoli, leaks, spring onions, corn, etc. When you do see bumps on roots, do not jump to the conclusion of root knot nematodes. Peas and beans have small bumps on their roots to store nitrogen from the soil, which is necessary for the plants.
by climatic zone
FLOWERS
> Azaleas put on full displays for spring colour. Azalea lace bug can quickly damage new growth, control with Searles Conguard. Wet, damp conditions can encourage the fungal disease, petal blight. Spray promptly with Mancozeb Plus.
EDIBLES
> Mulberry trees are developing their distinctive red fruits in early spring. Harvest mulberries when they are fully ripened on the tree. Eat promptly as they spoil within a day or two. Blueberry bushes on sale at gardening outlets will start flowering for late spring fruits. Plant in Searles Azalea & Camellia Specialty Mix for the right nutrients to grow plenty of berries.
> Great time to plant spring salad vegetables, such as lettuce, cucumber, beetroot, okra, zucchini, rocket, beans, capsicum, spring onion, silver beet and tomatoes for a quick harvest. Plant in rich well composted and nutrient packed soil for fast growth. Searles Herb & Vegetable Specialty Mix is designed for hungry feeding vegetables.
> Pumpkin, melon varieties, sweet potato, potato and sweet corn can be planted now. Enrich the garden soil with 5 IN 1 Organic Fertiliser to keep their growth strong.
LAWNS
> Spring is the ideal time to top dress lawns with Searles Top Dressing for lawns for thicker, greener growth. If not top dressing, fertilise lawns in early spring with Scotts Premium Lawn Builder for slow release, continued feeding throughout the season. Bindii and other pesky weeds will be out in force. Spray with Searles Buffalo Master for buffalo and couch lawns. Repeat spray if necessary to hit the new weeds that have come out after your initial spray.
> Plant cannas in full sun for brilliant colour. Plant cordylines, coleus and crotons for tropical colour. Position in semi-shaded areas.
> Flowers of Giant Granadilla with vibrant colours and pops of long lasting red flowers from the Ruellia Colourata will show their spring displays. Native Frangipani and other frangipani varieties are in full bloom and spreading their heavenly scent about early spring.
EDIBLES
> Plenty of edibles can be planted now. Plant carrot, choko, cucumber, eggplant, French beans, lettuce, radish, spring onion, squash, tomato, capsicum, kohl rabi, okra, pumpkin, rosella, sweet potato, tomato, rockmelon, watermelon & zucchini. Dig into existing soil plenty of organic fertiliser before planting to feed their hungry growth. Keep up the water to edibles during the drier season. Look out for powdery mildew and rust on cucurbit vines and act early.
> Harvest ginger, turmeric and galangal if you haven’t already. Replant what you don’t want to bring to the kitchen. Fertilise fruit trees with Searles Fruit & Citrus Plant Food and water deeply. Perfect time to plant pineapple heads now. Sow rosella seedlings early spring.
PLANT CARE
> Watch out for fruit fly on developing vegetables, tomatoes, citrus, mango and passionfruit. Hang Searles Fruit Fly traps around the perimeter of your garden and orchard to monitor and control male fruit fly activity.
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Cannas
FLOWERS
> Azaleas, hibiscus, Indian hawthorn, Pride of Madeira, wax flower, may bush, viburnums and many natives including grevilleas, callistemons and flowering gums are creating a floral display during spring.
> Wisteria cascading blooms are on display over archways, pergolas and fences. Other spring flowering vines of jasmine, hardenbergia, passionfruit and golden trumpet vine (Allamanda cathartica) are ablaze now. Don’t be afraid to prune during the season if the vines become unruly. Prune heavily after flowering for better growth for its next flowering season.
EDIBLES
> Fruit fly is common in the warmer times of year. Use Searles Fruit Fly Trap to monitor fruit fly activity around vegetables, particularly tomatoes and citrus trees. It attracts male fruit flies, traps and kills them, stopping the breeding cycle.
> Plant spring veggies that love the warmer soilcarrot, choko, cucumber, French beans, lettuce, radish, spring onion, squash, beetroot, cabbage and silver beet. Plant capsicum, chilli, zucchini, pumpkins, eggplant, tomatoes and sweet corn once the soil has received its spring warmth.
> Plant berry bushes, including strawberries vines and blueberry bushes. Berries like an acidic soil, plant in Azalea, Camellia & Gardenia Specialty Mix for optimal berry growing.
PLANT CARE
> Sap sucking aphids are in force. Control with Searles Bug Beater on contact or for systemic control, treat with Searles Conguard
by climatic zone
FLOWERS
> Mass blooming season is here. From spring bulbs springing from bare soil, flushes of azaleas, rhododendrons, waratahs, viburnum and daphne bushes and large feature trees of prunus, may, plum, apricot, almonds, wintersweet, crabapple (pictured) and apple trees.
> Now is the time to nurture deciduous trees into their foliage and flowering period, such as fruiting trees, liquid amber, maples, crepe myrtles by sprinkling 5 IN 1 Organic Fertiliser Pellets to enrich the soil for spring bursts of growth and flowering.
> Your pot plants are looking a little lacklustre? Repot pot plants into new fresh potting mix. Searles Platinum Potting Mix will feed plants for up to 18 months after re-potting.
EDIBLES
> Harvest asparagus and rhubarb. Plant Globe artichokes and potted grape varieties. Oranges and lemons are still fruiting. Passionfruit and berry flowers are appearing on bushes now. Liquid feed with Searles Flourish Fruit Booster for more yummy fruit.
> Warmer weather vegetable plants such as tomato, basil, corn, zucchini, capsicum, pumpkin and watermelon can be planted late spring when the soil warms up. Dig into the existing soil 5 IN 1 Fertiliser to enrich the soil with heaps of well composted manures for excellent growth. Carrots, spinach, lettuce, beetroot, peas and silverbeet can be planted at the start for spring.
> Control emerging aphids, mealybugs, whitefly, mites with an organic spray, Searles Ecofend Vegetable & Garden
FLOWERS
> Grevilleas, flowering gums, hakeas, bottlebrushes, kangaroo paws, banksias, melaleucas and correas (pictured below) are alive with blooms early spring. Spring is the best time to see WA wildflowers. Plant Australian natives in a native low phosphorus mix such as Searles Native Plants Specialty Mix
FLOWERS
EDIBLES
> Add colour to patio pots and fill up dull areas in the garden by planting petunia, vinca, cosmos, marigold, salvia, portulaca, nasturtium and zinnia. Plant early spring for a longer flowering time. Liquid feed fortnightly with Searles Flourish Soluble Plant Food - Flowers & Foliage for better flowering and foliage growth.
> Be on the look out for blackspot and aphids on roses now and aphids on ornamentals and flowering plants. Control large infestations with Searles Trifend Complete Garden spray. Ensure bushes have good air movement around the branches to keep fungal problems to a minimum.
> Melons can be planted now for a summer crop. Strawberries and other berry bushes, passionfruit and citrus trees can be planted during spring. Plant in Searles Fruit, Citrus & Rose Specialty Mix Monitor fruit fly activity with fruit fly traps.
> After the last of the frosts, plant warm season vegetables, such as beans, capsicum, cucumber, eggplant, Asian greens, tomato, leafy greens, potatoes, radish, salad onions, pumpkins and zucchini. Tomato plants grow well in the heat. Keep watering consistent to reduce tomatoes splitting and blossom end rot. For strong growth to support veggie production, enrich the soil with 5 IN 1 Organic Fertiliser. After planting seedlings mulch to insulate soil from warming temperatures.
> Aphids, leaf miners and leaf chewers enjoy vegetables at this time. Control if severe with Searles Ecofend Fruit & Garden spray
> Plant looking tired and potting mix soil compact? Repot indoor and outdoor plants that have become root-bound with Searles Premium Potting Mix to give them a fresh start and a nutrient boost.
> Establish some Australian natives, in particular, our best flowering species the grevillea and flowering gums. Depending on your garden type and use, there is one to suit your needs. Visit your local gardening outlet for the latest in breeding cultivars and the best natives to suit your area.
EDIBLES
> Mulch citrus trees, vegetable patches and garden beds to help moisture retention in the soil and protect the plant roots from temperature fluctuations.
> Don’t let garden pests take a hold during their active period in spring. Be vigilant for aphids, leaf miners, and leaf chewing bugs. Watch out for aphids munching on new branches of roses and citrus. Spray with Searles Bug Beater. Monitor and protect vegetable patches, tomatoes, citrus and passionfruit vines from fruit fly sting by hanging fruit fly traps.
> Inland areas have a good climate for growing all types of annual herbs such as basil, rosemary, coriander, dill, sage and oregano. Plant watermelon, cucumber and rockmelon vines. Plus most vegetables can be grown now with the warmer weather arriving.
