5 Tips and Tricks for Growing Australian Plants in Your Garden
By Emma Miller
Author bio: Emma Miller works as a senior gardening columnist, lecturer at Melbourne University and the executive editor of several gardening blogs.
Are you preparing to start your plant-growing hobby in Australia? Good for you. However, before you begin, you'll need some knowledge of plant types and whether any plant you find in Australia will grow well in your art of the country. Contrary to popular belief, native plants won't grow all over the country but at a specific location only. Make your plant hobby a happy and exciting experience by learning how to grow Australian plants in your garden.
Learn how to start the planting process
Once plants transplanted from their native soil into another one, they will need time to adjust to the new environment. A proper planting technique is essential to boost the healthy growth of plants. First, you'll need to dig a hole of the proper size to fit the plant you intend on planting in your garden. Too shallow or too narrow a hole will not offer optimal growing conditions. Air for a hole twice as deep and wide as the seedling container. You’ll best prepare the soil by filling the hole with water and letting the water soak into the ground. Before removing the plant from the container, submerge it in a bucket of water for a few seconds. Next, try removing the container slowly. Tap the pot lightly if you feel resistance. Once the plant is in the ground, press it firmly, so it sits nicely in the hole. Making sure there's a small dip around the plant will keep the rainfall in and guide water around the roots. Don’t forget to water it immediately after planting. That will help the roots grow stronger, reduce air pockets and settle the soil while reducing evaporation. You can also start thinking about using metal raised garden beds since they are easy to use and don’t take up too much space.
Know when to plant them
Aside from knowing how to plant, it's essential to know the right time to grow plants. Choose cooler, wetter months of the year to start growing your plants. Early spring, autumn and winter are optimal seasons to grow plants in Australia. We don't get too harsh cold, so you won't have to worry about plants freezing outside. Furthermore, in that way, plants will have more chances of establishing themselves during mild conditions. The seasonal rainfall will be good for them, allowing them to flourish.
Native plants won’t grow just anywhere
Did you know over 20,000 plants are growing in Australia? From the mountains to the deserts and the coast, Australia has a rich flora. However, just because you can find many plants around the country doesn't mean any plant will grow in your garden. The plant flourishing in Sidney might not have a chance to grow in the outback. To increase the chances of successfully growing plants, choose plants from similar living conditions to those in your garden. Let’s say you’re looking for ideal native plants while travelling through Mornington Peninsula. Take your time to search for plants that can grow in your area. When it comes to exceptional accommodation, Mount Martha offers everything one needs to feel comfortable while looking for that perfect plant. Enjoy the comfort of your accommodation as you pay close attention to what plants you’re bringing home to allow them to thrive. Learn about the plants on the go, and consult with experts about planting a specific plant in your garden.
Treat the seeds before you plant them
All seeds need treatment before you plant them in the soil. The seed often becomes dormant because of the hard seed coats on native plant seeds. Thanks to the dormancy, the seed stays viable until it's the right time to sprout. However, the dormancy makes germination times unpredictable. That's why you'll need to treat the native seeds before your planting process commences. Some seeds require soaking, others benefit from smoke, while some thrive if you provide cold treatment. If you have raised garden bed you can plant your seedlings closer, if you are using a regular garden, you don’t have to worry about that.
Look after them
Your plants will require attention and care to look their best. So, after planting them carefully, nurture them regularly with water. Educate yourself on plant types in your garden to know whether they need mulch to thrive or if water is enough. Some plants prefer direct sunlight, while others require some shade. Learn how to properly look after them to prevent plants from dehydrating or dying.
Final thoughts
Growing Australian plants may seem easy, but it will require dedication and knowledge. Look up all the planting steps before you start your plant-growing journey. Offer plants optimal living conditions and only plant those types that will grow in your area.
