October is a fantastic month of regeneration, renewal and revival as plants of all sizes, shapes and textures produce wonderful displays of fresh new foliage and flowers.
In cooler regions, gardens are alive with brilliant colour as deciduous flowering trees transform the landscape with stunning displays. Ornamental foliage trees are covered in the shades of spring growth and freshness.
In warmer areas, Bauhinia trees are covered in spring flowers and looking bright and beautiful. Deciduous feature plants such as frangipanis are beginning to burst into leaf and will soon be producing their tropical colours and fragrances. Poinciana and jacaranda trees will soon be transforming streets, parks and gardens with colour.
The Time of Planting
Local garden centres are an exciting destination during spring. They are filled with inspiration, life and colour. There are garden treasures everywhere to delight the senses. Azaleas, Cape Daisies, Brunfelsias, Gardenias, Jasmine and Roses are just some of the many October highlights to discover.
Plant now for Colour
There is a huge selection of seeds, seedlings, cell packs and potted colour available to plant now for a colourful spring and summer. Petunias, Marigold, Vincas, Alyssum, Dianthus, Cosmos, Gerberas, Salvias, Snapdragons and Sunflowers are some of the favourites.
Lawn Time
Lawns are the ultimate living carpet. The warmer temperatures and increasing daylight hours of spring are the green light for lawns to grow. Now is the perfect time to rejuvenate your lawn — control weeds, top dress and fertilise with a premium specialised lawn food. Lift the mower blades now for a longer lawn and a stronger, deeper root system. As well as seeing great results now, these actions will help prepare your lawn for the summer months.
The Edible Garden
There is an abundance of fruiting trees, berries, small fruits, herbs and vegetable seeds and seedlings to plant during spring. A visit to the garden centre will have you excited about the options of growing your own fresh and healthy food at home.
Tomato Time
The planting of tomato plants is a highlight of spring gardening. Tomatoes love the warmth and grow best in southern areas of Australia from mid spring into summer. In warmer areas, they can be grown all year. The plants are fast growing and fruits form and develop quickly once conditions are favourable.
Tomato plants are available in seedling punnets, cell packs or single pots. Single pots are very popular as they allow a selection of different varieties without ending up with too many plants. Whichever variety you select, the fruits are all filled with nutrients, antioxidants, and home-grown tomatoes are fresh, flavoursome and fun to grow.
Drop into your local Gro garden centre for our seasonal veggie growing guide — see you in store!