Springtime is a season of renewal, and there’s no better way to embrace it than by sowing new life in your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or someone who’s still finding their way, remember that nature is on your side. Look around at all the plants thriving in your environment, they’ve grown from seed with little to no human intervention, and your garden can flourish the same way with a bit of care and the right choices.
In this blog, you’ll discover what to sow in spring and how to give your garden the best possible start, from vibrant flowers to fruitful harvests.
Understanding your climate zone
Before you rush to your local nursery or garden centre, it’s crucial to understand the climate zone you’re in. South Africa is a country of diverse climates, from the arid plains of the Karoo to the lush, rainy regions of the Western Cape. Knowing your local conditions will help you choose plants that will thrive, whether you’re in a hot, dry area or a cool, wet one. Also, consider the specific conditions of your garden, such as soil type and sunlight exposure, to decide what to sow in spring.
Fruit: The berry best time to plant
Spring is the perfect season to start your berry patch. Whether you fancy strawberries, raspberries, currants, gooseberries, blueberries, or blackberries, this is the time to get them in the ground. Knowing what to sow in spring can lead to a fruit-filled season.
Planting tips
- Preparation is key: Start by turning the soil with a garden fork, ensuring it’s loose and well-drained.
- Boost your soil: Mix in some Wonder Plant Starter All Purpose to give your berries a great start. This will help provide essential nutrients as they settle into their new home.
- Container options: If space is an issue, strawberries, blueberries, and gooseberries are happy to grow in pots or containers. Just ensure they get plenty of sunlight and water.
Flowers: A burst of spring colour
Spring flowers are the highlight of any garden, bringing vibrant colours and a sense of joy. From the delicate Alyssum to the towering sunflowers, there’s something for every corner of your garden. Knowing what to sow in spring when it comes to flowers will brighten up your space all season long.
Top picks for spring sowing
Alyssum, asters, begonias, chrysanthemums, Californian poppies, carnations, cosmos, dahlias, dianthus, gazanias, gypsophila, impatiens, marigolds, petunias, nasturtiums, phlox, salvia, snapdragons, statice, sunflowers, and verbena.
Planting tips
- Sunlight matters: Be mindful of the amount of sunlight your garden receives. Flowers like marigolds and sunflowers thrive in full sun, while impatiens and begonias prefer shadier spots.
- Soil preparation: Before planting, work in some Wonder Organic Vita-Boost to enrich the soil. This organic boost helps flowers develop strong roots and vibrant blooms.
- Spacing: Give your plants room to grow. Crowding can lead to poor air circulation, which makes plants more susceptible to disease.
Veggies: Fresh produce at your fingertips
Nothing beats the taste of homegrown vegetables. Spring is the time to start sowing a variety of crops that will provide fresh produce throughout the warmer months. Deciding what to sow in spring when it comes to veggies can set the stage for a bountiful harvest.
What to sow in spring:
Beans, capsicums, courgettes, cucumbers, eggplants, sweetcorn, tomatoes, basil, broccoli, cabbages, carrots, cauliflowers, celery, lettuces, radishes, rocket, spinach, and Swiss chard.
Planting Tips:
- Soil preparation: Veggies need rich, well-drained soil. Before planting, thoroughly prepare your beds by removing stones and incorporating plenty of mature compost. Add Wonder Root Builder Bone Meal to encourage strong root development, and in acidic soils, consider adding Wonder AG Lime.
- Fertilising: A balanced organic fertiliser, like Wonder All Purpose, will ensure your vegetables get the nutrients they need. For an extra boost, use Wonder Kelp to promote healthy growth.
- Water wisely: Regular watering is essential, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
Sowing techniques: How to get it right
Sowing flowers
- Containers: Fill trays or pots to the top with soil, which will settle when watered. Lightly press down but don’t compact it.
- Spacing: Sprinkle seeds with enough space between them. Overcrowding can lead to weak growth.
- Covering: Lightly cover the seeds with compost, but remember, very fine seeds should only be barely covered.
- Watering: Use seed trays to water from below. This prevents disturbing the seeds. Fill the tray with water until the compost darkens. Re-water if the compost starts to dry out, but don’t let it become waterlogged.
- Labelling: Always label your trays with the plant name and date sown.
- Warmth and light: Keep the trays warm until seeds sprout, then ensure they receive plenty of light.
Spring is the gardener’s most exciting time. Knowing what to sow in spring, the right preparation, a bit of care, and the right products you’re well on your way to a bountiful season. So, dig in, sow your seeds, and watch your garden burst into life this spring.
