Garden Tasks for April
As autumn settles in Melbourne, April brings cooler temperatures and the perfect conditions for garden preparation. Here are essential tasks to keep your garden thriving during this transitional month:
General Maintenance
Monitor watering needs as temperatures begin to cool. While the weather is milder, plants still need regular watering, especially during dry spells.
Clean up fallen leaves regularly to prevent them from smothering lawn areas and becoming breeding grounds for pests and diseases.
Start composting autumn leaves and garden debris to create nutrient-rich soil for spring.
Check and clean gutters to prepare for increased rainfall.
Planting
Plant winter vegetables such as broad beans, peas, carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower.
Add winter colour by planting seedlings of pansies, violas, alyssum, and cornflowers.
Plant spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths.
Consider adding native Australian plants, which typically establish well when planted in autumn.
Harvesting
Harvest the last of your summer crops such as tomatoes, eggplants, and capsicums.
Pick and store pumpkins and winter squash before the first frost.
Collect herb seeds from spent plants for next season's growing.
Lawn Care
Reduce mowing frequency as grass growth slows down.
Apply an autumn fertiliser to strengthen the lawn before winter.
Remove weeds while they're actively growing and before they set seed.
Tree and Shrub Care
Prune summer-flowering shrubs that have finished blooming.
Start planning winter pruning for deciduous trees as they begin to lose their leaves.
Apply slow-release fertiliser around trees and shrubs to support root development during the cooler months.
Pest Management
Monitor for common autumn pests like aphids and caterpillars.
Check plants for signs of fungal diseases, which can become more prevalent in cooler, damper conditions.
Planning Ahead
Start planning your winter garden layout and order any necessary seeds or plants.
Consider installing a rain water tank to capture autumn rainfall for garden use.
Prepare garden beds for winter crops by adding compost and organic matter.
April is an excellent time to take stock of your garden tools, clean them thoroughly, and arrange for any necessary repairs before winter sets in.
Remember to take advantage of the pleasant autumn weather to spend time in your garden. The moderate temperatures make it an ideal time for both gardening tasks and enjoying the outdoor space you've created.