Spring again

One of the best things about Spring is that spending time outdoors becomes even more appealing –
especially if you have a garden, patio or balcony that you can transform into your own green space.
Spring flowers will add colour and fragrance, and encourage you to get outside into the sunshine and
fresh air.

Like many of the best things in life, gardens are something you get more out of when you put more
in. You don’t need to have green fingers to create a wonderful display – just your imagination and a
few hours each weekend.

Can you dig it? Yes you can!

If your garden is looking a little neglected because, you know, winter and, well, life gets busy, then you can find all the inspiration you need to revive it in our range of gardening books. Before you get your hands dirty, kit yourself out with some gardening gloves and basic tools. Depending on the size of your outdoor space, you might only need hand tools rather than the full-sized versions.

Image courtesy of Gary Barnes. Published on: December 19th, 2020. Source: Pexel.com

Out with the old, in with the new

Just like your car, you garden will need a bit of a service after Winter. Using secateurs, cut back any dead leaves or branches – you can use these to make compost for your new plants. Speaking of compost, you’ll need to put a thick layer of this (or mulch, which is similar) on all your beds and around your plants.

This helps to keep precious moisture in the soil, which becomes more important as the Spring temperatures start to rise. If you’re an impatient gardener and you want instant colour, look out for ‘Winter annuals’ at your local nursery or garden centre. They’re inexpensive, come in trays, and can be added to a pot or patch of bare soil in moments.

Planning ahead

While there are quick wins to be had in any garden or patio area, gardening is one hobby where you sometimes need to be a little patient. This applies especially during Spring, which is the ideal time to start planning ahead for Summer. Planting summer flowering bulbs now means that you’ll have a whole new wave of colour to enjoy even after your Spring blooms have faded.

In fact, with careful planning, you can ensure that there is always something fresh and new to enjoy in your garden, from Spring to at least Autumn – and even through Winter.

Image courtesy of Karolina Grabowska. Published on: April 21st, 2020. Source: Pexel.com

Don’t forget the hardware

As well as plants, you’ll also need the structural elements of your garden. These could include pavers to make a path or braai area, garden ornaments and statues, and outdoor lighting so that you can enjoy your outdoor space at night, too.

Planters and pots are great for smaller spaces like balconies – you’ll be amazed how much of a garden you can create in even the tiniest of areas. If your outdoor room is limited, you’ll just have to be even more creative about how you use it.

Relax – you’ve earned it!

Once you’ve done all the hard work of creating your spring garden, you want to be able to enjoy it. Garden furniture can give you a comfortable spot from which to look out at your creation, read a good book, and watch as birds and butterflies fly by.

A free-standing braai is essential for every South African outdoor space – especially if you plan to invite your family, friends or neighbours around to admire your Spring garden.

If you’re reading this indoors and the sun is shining, we have only three words for you: get out there!