August in Tasmania marks the tail end of winter and the beginning of spring, making it the perfect time to start preparing your garden for a burst of vibrant color. The sight of wattle flowers blooming is a sure sign that spring is almost here, ready to bring life and color to our gardens. Adding color to your garden not only enhances its beauty but also lifts your spirits as you watch your plants flourish and bloom. Here are some fantastic plants that have just arrived at the nursery and are ready to be planted now.
Annual Color to Brighten Your Garden
Dianthus is one of those flowers that simply can't be ignored. Also known as pinks, they bring delightful fragrance and bright, cheerful flowers to your garden. Plant them in well-drained soil in a sunny spot.
Pansies are another fantastic choice. These hardy annuals thrive in the cool temperatures of August and come in a wide range of colors that can brighten up any garden space. Plant them in a location with partial to full sun, ensuring the soil is rich in organic matter and kept consistently moist.
For a splash of orange and yellow, consider Calendula. Also known as pot marigolds, these flowers are excellent for adding bright hues to your garden. Plant them in full sun to partial shade. Calendulas prefer well-drained soil and will continue to bloom through the cooler months.
Don't forget about Snapdragons. These classic annuals provide a vertical accent in garden beds with their stunning blooms. Plant them in full sun to partial shade, in rich, well-drained soil.
New Perennials for Lasting Beauty
Hellebores are perfect for adding winter and early spring color. The new varieties, like 'Anna's Red' and 'Molly's White,' are particularly beautiful. Their long-lasting blooms and attractive foliage provide year-round interest. Plant them in part shade in well-drained, humus-rich soil. Hellebores are low-maintenance and rabbit-resistant.
Brown boronia, known for its heavenly fragrance, is an Australian native that adds a unique touch to any garden. Plant it in a sunny to partly shaded spot with well-drained soil. Boronias do best in slightly acidic soil and require good air circulation.
Daphne is another excellent choice for its intensely fragrant flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring. Plant it in a sheltered position with morning sun and afternoon shade. Daphne prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Native Beauties for a Touch of Australia
Chamelaucium, or waxflower, is a tough, low-maintenance native with masses of small, edible waxy flowers that brighten up any garden. Plant them in full sun with well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established.
Wattles, or acacias, are iconic Australian natives that provide bright, golden flowers. They are hardy and adaptable to various soil types. Plant them in full sun in well-drained soil to add a vibrant splash of yellow to your garden.
Prepare for Summer Bulbs
Prepare for summer bulbs, which are arriving soon. Fresh stocks of Peony rose, Lilium, and Lily of the valley are arricing soon and are best planted in the coming 4 weeks. These beautiful summer bloomers will add a stunning array of colors and fragrances to your garden.
Conclusion
August is an exciting time for Tasmanian gardeners, as the transition from winter to spring brings an opportunity to add vibrant color and life to your garden. By planting a mix of annuals, perennials, and natives, you can create a visually stunning garden that lifts your spirits and brings joy as everything begins to bloom. Rug up and visit the nursery to discover these beautiful plants and start transforming your winter garden.
Happy Gardening!