August is a fabulous month in the Tasmanian garden as the first signs of spring begin to come to life. The countryside starts glowing with golden wattles, bulbs begin pushing through the cool winter soil and trees that have enjoyed a well-earned winter rest are waking with fresh buds and new growth.
If you've been waiting to get started in the garden, now's the time. The cooler weather, regular rainfall and warming soil make August one of the best months of the year to plant. The work you do now will reward you with healthier plants, bigger harvests and plenty of colour in the months ahead.
As the soil temperature warms up, it is time to sow fresh seeds of Carrot, Parsnip and Beetroots. Cover with seed raising mix to 2 or 3 times the thickness of the seed to improve germination. You can now plant seedlings of Spinach, Silverbeet, Spring Onions, Leeks and Onions and early crops of Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower and Broccoli.
Peas can also be sown from seed keeping in mind they love a soil which has been limed and enriched with organic matter. Dig your trench about 30-40 cm deep adding a few handfuls of blood and bone along with a generous application of lime.
Peas require loose and airy soil that drains well and really need a full sun position 6-8 hours of direct sunlight everyday) so be sure to choose an appropriate location or create a raised garden bed for extra drainage.
Certified Seed Potatoes Have Arrived
It's one of my favourite times of the year — seed potato season.
Whether you've got a large veggie patch, raised garden beds or simply a few pots, potatoes are one of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow.
At Harmony we only stock certified seed potatoes, giving you healthier plants, improved yields and reducing the risk of introducing disease into your garden. Once again they're packed in environmentally friendly brown paper bags to reduce plastic waste and help keep the potatoes in excellent condition.
This year's range includes some old favourites along with a few gourmet varieties.
Pink Fir Apple
One of my favourite gourmet potatoes. Its long, knobbly shape might look unusual, but the flavour is outstanding. It has a delicious nutty taste and firm waxy texture, making it perfect for roasting or warm potato salads.
Dutch Cream
A Tasmanian favourite for good reason. Rich, buttery and incredibly versatile, it's hard to beat for mash, roasting or simply boiled with a little butter.
Kennebec
A fantastic all-round variety producing high yields of creamy white potatoes that are excellent for chips, mash and roasting.
Pontiac
An old favourite with smooth red skin and crisp white flesh. Reliable, easy to grow and excellent for boiling, baking and salads.
Nicola
A beautiful yellow-fleshed potato with a creamy texture that holds together well when cooked. Ideal for salads, steaming and roasting.
King Edward
A traditional heirloom variety famous for producing exceptional roast potatoes with a lovely fluffy texture.
Carlingford
Perfect if you're short on space. It grows well in raised beds and containers while producing excellent quality potatoes.
Spunta
A productive variety producing large oval potatoes with smooth yellow skin and pale yellow flesh. A fantastic all-rounder that's equally good baked, mashed or roasted.
Sapphire
One of the real talking points this season. Sapphire produces striking deep purple skin and flesh packed with antioxidants. Not only does it look amazing on the plate, it also has a delicious flavour and holds its colour beautifully when roasted or steamed.
Bintje
A European favourite that's been loved by gardeners for generations. Creamy, smooth and incredibly versatile for almost every style of cooking.
Jobs Around the Garden This Month
There's plenty happening around the garden during August.
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- Treat peaches and nectarines for leaf curl before buds burst. Timing is everything, so don't leave it too late. We've put together a helpful blog explaining exactly when and how to spray.
- Improve heavy clay soils by incorporating gypsum and organic matter before spring growth begins.
- Plant summer flowering bulbs including Dahlias, Peony Roses, Liliums and Lily of the Valley while the soil is still cool.
- Install or replace codling moth traps before apples and pears begin flowering.
- Watch for the first signs of lawn grub activity and treat early before damage appears.
- Lift and divide overgrown perennials to create stronger plants and more flowers.
- Add compost and well-rotted manure to garden beds ready for spring planting.
- Apply garden lime to vegetable beds now, allowing time for it to react with the soil before spring fertilising.
- If you haven't finished pruning your roses, don't worry—there's still time, but try to have them completed before new growth starts.- Dont miss out on Andrews Rose Care workshop on the 22nd August- Book a seat now so you dont miss out!
Visit Harmony This August
August is one of the most rewarding months to be in the garden, and there's never been a better time to get planting.
Whether you're looking for vegetable seedlings, certified seed potatoes, fruit trees, flowering bulbs or simply some friendly advice, our team is always happy to help.
I hope to see you in the nursery soon.
Happy gardening,