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Autumn

WHAT TO PLANT IN MAY

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES

  1. Prepare the Soil: Beetroot prefers light, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

  2. Planting Time: The best time to plant beetroot is from mid-April to July. However, in cooler climates, you can start sowing as early as March or as late as September.

  3. Planting Method: Sow the seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows that are 1 foot apart.

  4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, especially during dry spells, to prevent the roots from becoming woody.

  5. Harvesting: Beetroot is ready to harvest when the size of the root is between a golf ball and a tennis ball – this is usually 90 days after planting.

Remember, beetroot needs full sun (at least 4 hours of sunlight per day) to partial shade. They can tolerate frost, but young plants can be damaged by late spring frosts.

    1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 8 inches and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.

    2. Sow the Seeds: Plant the broad bean seeds about 2 inches deep and 8 inches apart in rows. Space the rows about 18 inches apart.

    3. Watering: Water the seeds thoroughly at planting time and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, as the beans germinate and grow.

    4. Support: As the plants grow, they may need support. Place stakes at the end of the rows and run string or wire between them to help the plants stay upright.

    5. Care: Keep the area weed-free and watch for pests. Pinch out the tops of the plants after the first pods have set to discourage blackfly and encourage further pod set.

    6. Harvest: Broad beans are ready to harvest when the pods are well filled and the seeds inside are still tender.

  1. Prepare the Soil: Cabbage prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 6.8. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

  2. Planting Time: The best time to plant cabbage is in the early spring or mid-summer for a fall harvest.

  3. Planting Method: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost date, or sow seeds directly into the garden when the soil can be worked. Plant them 1/2 inch deep and 12-24 inches apart in rows that are 24-36 inches apart.

  4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-1.5 inches of water per week.

  5. Harvesting: Cabbage is ready to harvest when the heads are firm and the base of the head is 4 to 10 inches across. This is usually 70-100 days after planting.

    1. Soil Preparation:
      Use well-drained, loose soil free of stones.
      Ensure deep soil tillage to allow for proper root development.

    2. Planting:
      Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, directly in the garden.
      Space seeds 2-3 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart.

    3. Care:
      Thin seedlings to 1-2 inches apart once they’re 2 inches tall.
      Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
      Weed carefully to avoid disturbing carrot roots.

    4. Harvest:
      Carrots are ready to harvest when they reach desired size, typically in about 50-75 days.
      Gently loosen soil around the carrots to pull them up without breaking.

    1. Soil Preparation:

      • Choose a location with full sun.
      • Prepare the soil with rich compost or well-rotted manure to ensure it is fertile and well-drained.
      • Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

      Planting:

      • Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
      • Space seedlings about 18-24 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart.

      Care:

      • Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist.
      • Mulch to maintain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
      • Fertilize with a high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote growth.

      Blanche Heads (if desired):

      • When the cauliflower head is about 2-3 inches in diameter, blanch it by tying the outer leaves over the head to protect it from the sun and maintain whiteness.

      Harvest:

      • Harvest cauliflower when the heads are compact, white, and firm.
      • Cut the head from the main stem with a sharp knife, leaving some leaves attached to protect it.
  1. Soil Preparation:

    • Choose a location with full sun to light shade.
    • Ensure the soil is fertile, well-drained, and has a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.

    Planting:

    • Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
    • Space seeds or seedlings 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 24-30 inches apart.

    Care:

    • Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
    • Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
    • Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer before planting and midway through the growing season.

    Harvest:

    • Harvest Chinese cabbage when heads are firm and have reached a suitable size, usually 6-8 inches in diameter.
    • Cut the head at the base with a sharp knife.

1. Choose the Right Citrus Variety
Select varieties that are well-suited to Melbourne’s climate. Some popular choices include:
Lemons (e.g., Eureka, Meyer)
Oranges (e.g., Valencia, Navel)
Mandarins (e.g., Imperial, Emperor)
Limes (e.g., Tahitian, Kaffir)

2. Selecting a Planting Site
Sunlight: Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Wind Protection: Ensure the site is sheltered from strong winds.
Soil: Citrus prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, consider raising the bed or planting in a large pot.

3. Planting
Timing: Early April is ideal, giving the tree time to establish before winter.
Hole Size: Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
Planting: Gently remove the tree from its container, place it in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil, gently firming down.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.

4. Aftercare
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the trunk.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first year.
Feeding: Use a citrus-specific fertilizer, following the instructions on the package.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed in the first few years, mainly to remove any dead or crossing branches.

5. Protection
Frost: In Melbourne, frost can be a concern. Protect young trees with frost cloth or move potted trees to a sheltered location if frost is forecasted.

1. Choose the Right Spot
Shallots prefer a sunny location with well-draining soil. Ensure the area gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
2. Soil Preparation
Work the soil to a depth of about 30cm, removing weeds and rocks. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Planting
Separate shallot bulbs into individual cloves. Plant them with the pointed end up, around 2.5cm deep and 15-20cm apart, in rows spaced 30cm apart.
Water the shallots gently after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs.
4. Care
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to package instructions.
5. Harvest
Shallots are ready to harvest when the tops begin to yellow and fall over, typically in late summer to early autumn.
Gently lift the bulbs with a fork, clean off the soil, and let them dry in a warm, airy spot for a few weeks before storing.

  1. Prepare the Soil: Silverbeet prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

  2. Planting Time: The best time to plant silverbeet is in the early spring or fall. It can tolerate a light frost.

  3. Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1/2 inch deep and 3-6 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart.

  4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-2 inches of water per week. Silverbeet requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.

  5. Harvesting: Silverbeet is ready to harvest when the leaves reach your desired size. This is usually 50-60 days after planting.

Remember, silverbeet needs full sun (at least 5 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade. They also prefer cooler weather.

  1. Prepare the Soil: Spinach prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

  2. Planting Time: The best time to plant spinach is in the early spring or fall. It can tolerate a light frost.

  3. Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.

  4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Spinach requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.

  5. Harvesting: Spinach is ready to harvest when the leaves reach your desired size. This is usually 37-45 days after planting.

Remember, spinach needs full sun (at least 3-4 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade. They also prefer cooler weather.

  1. Soil Preparation:
    Select a location with full sun.
    Till the soil to a depth of 12-15 inches and remove any debris.
    Mix in aged compost to enrich the soil.

    Planting:
    Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
    Space seeds 1 inch apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.

    Care:
    Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart once they’re a few inches tall.
    Keep the soil consistently moist.
    Control weeds with regular, shallow cultivation.

    Harvest:
    Harvest turnips when they are 2-3 inches in diameter for the best flavor.
    Pull the turnips out of the ground by grasping the top of the root and gently wiggling it free.

HERBS

    1. Prepare the Soil: Chives prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

    2. Planting Time: The best time to plant chives is in the spring, about 4-6 weeks before the last frost.

    3. Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 8-10 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 8-10 inches apart in rows that are 12 inches apart.

    4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.

    5. Harvesting: Chives are ready to harvest about 60 days after planting. Cut the leaves down to the base when harvesting.

    Remember, chives need full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade.

    1. Prepare the Soil: Coriander prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

    2. Planting Time: The best time to plant coriander is in the late spring, after the last frost, and in the early fall.

    3. Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 15 inches apart.

    4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.

    5. Harvesting: Coriander is ready to harvest when the leaves start to mature. This is usually 3-4 weeks after planting for leaf harvest and about 45 days for seed harvest.

    Remember, coriander needs full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate light shade.

 1. Choosing Garlic Cloves
Select High-Quality Cloves: Opt for organic garlic bulbs from a garden center or nursery. Supermarket garlic may be treated to prevent sprouting.
Variety Matters: Choose varieties suited to Melbourne’s climate. ‘Australian White’ and ‘Italian Purple’ are popular choices.
2. Preparing the Soil
Location: Garlic prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure a few weeks before planting. Ensure the soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Bed Preparation: Create raised beds or ensure good drainage if planting in the ground.
3. Planting
Separate Cloves: Gently break apart the garlic bulb into individual cloves. Use only the biggest cloves for planting.
Planting Depth and Spacing: Plant cloves pointy end up, 2-3 cm deep, and 15-20 cm apart. Rows should be spaced about 30 cm apart.
Watering: Water gently after planting. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
4. Care During Growth
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of straw mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or apply a liquid seaweed solution every four weeks.
Weeding: Keep the area around the garlic free of weeds without disturbing the garlic roots.
5. Harvesting
Timing: Garlic is typically ready to harvest in Melbourne around November to December when the lower leaves start to brown.
Harvesting Method: Gently lift the bulbs with a fork, being careful not to damage them.
Curing: Allow the garlic to dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area for a few weeks before storing.

      1. Choose a Sunny Spot: Marjoram thrives in full sun, so select a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
      2. Prepare the Soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.
      3. Sowing Seeds: Plant marjoram seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow them just below the surface of the soil.
      4. Transplanting: Once the seedlings are strong and the threat of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors, spacing them about 8-10 inches apart.
      5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
      6. Harvesting: Begin to harvest leaves as needed once the plant is well established, usually a few weeks after transplanting.
    1. Prepare the Soil: Mint prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

    2. Planting Time: The best time to plant mint is in the spring, or in the fall in frost-free climates.

    3. Planting Method: It’s best to start with a young plant from a nursery, as mint can be difficult to grow from seed. Plant them 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 24 inches apart.

    4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-2 inches of water per week.

    5. Harvesting: Mint is ready to harvest as soon as it comes up and can be harvested until the first hard freeze.

    Remember, mint needs full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day).

    1. Prepare the Soil: Oregano prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

    2. Planting Time: The best time to plant oregano is in the early spring, as soon as the ground can be worked.

    3. Planting Method: Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last spring frost date, or buy young plants from a nursery. Transplant them 8-10 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart.

    4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.

    5. Harvesting: Oregano is ready to harvest as soon as the plant begins to bud. Cut the stems down to the ground, leaving about 2 inches.

    Remember, oregano needs full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).

    1. Prepare the Soil: Parsley prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

    2. Planting Time: The best time to plant parsley is in the early spring, about 2-3 weeks before the last frost.

    3. Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 10-12 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.

    4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-2 inches of water per week.

    5. Harvesting: Parsley is ready to harvest as soon as the plant has three segments. This is usually 70-90 days after planting.

    Remember, parsley needs full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).

. Select the Right Location
Full sun exposure.
Well-draining soil.
3. Prepare the Soil
Enrich with compost or well-rotted manure.
Ensure pH is between 6.5 and 7.0.
4. Planting
Seeds: Transplant seedlings when they are 3-4 inches tall.
Stalks: Plant rooted stalks in the soil, leaving the top exposed.
5. Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
6. Fertilizing
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
7. Harvesting
Harvest when stalks are 12 inches tall, cutting just above the root base.

  1. Choose a Location: Marjoram thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

  2. Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mix in compost to improve fertility and drainage.

  3. Sow Seeds or Transplants: Plant marjoram seeds or seedlings. If using seeds, sprinkle them on the soil surface and lightly press them in. For transplants, dig holes twice the size of the root ball and space them 8-10 inches apart.

  4. Watering: After planting, water gently. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

  5. Care and Maintenance: Once established, marjoram requires minimal care. Pinch back the tips to encourage bushy growth and harvest leaves as needed.

  1. Soil Preparation:
    Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
    Tarragon prefers a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.

  2. Planting:
    Plant divisions or cuttings about 18-24 inches apart to allow for growth.
    If using seeds, sow them lightly on the soil surface, as tarragon seeds need light to germinate.

  3. Care:
    Water regularly, but be careful not to overwater – tarragon does not like soggy roots.
    Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
    Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth.

  4. Harvest:
    Harvest leaves as needed, preferably in the morning when the oils are strongest.
    Cut the stems just above a growth node to promote new growth.
    For drying, harvest just before the plant flowers for the best flavor.

FLOWERS

      1. Prepare the Soil: Alyssum prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

      2. Planting Time: The best time to plant alyssum is in the early spring, after the last frost.

      3. Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 6-9 inches apart in rows that are 12 inches apart.

      4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.

      5. Harvesting: Alyssum is grown for its flowers, which can be enjoyed throughout the growing season. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

      Remember, alyssum needs full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day).

      1. Soil Preparation:
        Choose a location with partial to full shade, as Cineraria prefers cooler conditions.
        Ensure the soil is rich, well-drained, and maintains consistent moisture.

      2. Planting:
        Sow seeds on the surface of a well-moistened soil mix, as they need light to germinate.
        Do not cover the seeds with soil; just press them gently into the soil surface.
        Space transplants about 12-15 inches apart to allow for mature growth.

      3. Care:
        Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
        Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
        Remove faded flowers to promote further blooming and maintain plant vigor.

      4. Harvest:
        Cineraria is primarily grown for its showy flowers and is not typically “harvested.”
        However, you can cut blooms for display in floral arrangements. Do this early in the morning and place them in water immediately.

1. Choose the Right Spot
Sunlight: English Daisies prefer a spot that receives partial shade, as too much sun can stress the plants, especially in Australia.
Soil: They thrive in rich, well-draining soil. If your garden soil is heavy or clayey, consider amending it with compost or planting in raised beds or containers.
2. Soil Preparation
Amend the Soil: Mix in plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
pH Level: English Daisies prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Test your soil and adjust accordingly.
3. Planting
When: April is a good time to plant as the weather starts to cool, allowing the plants to establish without the stress of summer heat.
How: Sow seeds directly into the prepared soil or plant seedlings. If sowing seeds, lightly cover them with soil as they need some light to germinate. Space plants or thin seedlings to about 15-20 cm apart to allow for growth and air circulation.
4. Watering
Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
Ongoing Care: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. English Daisies do not tolerate drought well.
5. Mulching and Feeding
Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool.
Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time to support growth.
6. Maintenance
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Pest and Disease Watch: Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases. English Daisies are generally hardy but can be susceptible to slugs and snails.
7. Enjoying the Blooms
Flowering Season: With proper care, your English Daisies should bloom from late winter through to spring, adding cheerful colors to your garden during cooler months.

  1. Prepare the Soil: Lobelia prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.

  2. Planting Time: The best time to plant lobelia is in the early spring, after the last frost.

  3. Planting Method: Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last spring frost date, or buy young plants from a nursery. Transplant them 4-6 inches apart in rows that are 12 inches apart.

  4. Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.

  5. Harvesting: Lobelia is grown for its flowers, which can be enjoyed from late spring to the first frost. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Remember, lobelia needs full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day).

      1. Soil Preparation:
        Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
        Lupins prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
        Avoid heavy, wet soils as lupins do not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

      2. Planting:
        Soak seeds overnight to soften the hard seed coat, or nick the seeds with a file.
        Plant seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
        Space seeds or seedlings 12-18 inches apart to give each plant room to grow.

      3. Care:
        Water plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater.
        Apply a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
        Fertilize sparingly; lupins fix their own nitrogen and excessive fertilizer can encourage leaf growth over flower production.

      4. Pest and Disease Management:
        Keep an eye out for slugs and snails, especially on young plants.
        Practice good air circulation around plants to prevent fungal diseases.

      5. Harvest:
        Lupins are primarily grown for their showy flower spikes and are not typically harvested.
        If desired, cut flower spikes for arrangements when the lower third of the flowers on the spike have opened.t.

      1. Soil Preparation:
        Choose a location with full sun to partial shade.
        Ensure the soil is rich, well-drained, and has a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.

      2. Planting:
        Sow seeds lightly covered with soil, as they require darkness to germinate.
        Space seedlings or plants about 6-8 inches apart.

      3. Care:
        Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
        Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
        Apply a general-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.

      4. Harvest:
        Pansies are grown for their colorful flowers and can be picked for small bouquets.
        Cut flowers early in the morning when they are freshest.

      1. Soil Preparation:
        Choose a location with partial shade, as primulas prefer cooler conditions.
        Ensure the soil is rich, moist, and well-drained with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

      2. Planting:
        Sow seeds on the surface of a moist seed-starting mix, as they need light to germinate.
        Do not cover the seeds with soil; just press them gently into the surface.
        Space plants about 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.

      3. Care:
        Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
        Mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool.
        Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

      4. Harvest:
        Primulas are primarily grown for their vibrant flowers and are not typically harvested.
        If desired, you can cut flowers for indoor arrangements. Do this early in the morning when the blooms are most hydrated.

  • Choose the Right Location: Polyanthus thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
  • Soil Preparation: Work the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.
  • Planting: Plant polyanthus in the fall or early spring. Space the plants about 6-12 inches apart to allow for growth and air circulation. Plant them at the same depth they were in their pots.
  • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
  • Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

1. Choose a Location
Select a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

2. Prepare the Soil
Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mix in compost or a balanced fertilizer.

3. Sow Seeds or Plant Seedlings
For seeds:

Sow directly in the ground after the last frost.
Plant seeds 1/8 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart.
For seedlings:

Gently remove the plant from its container.
Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil.
4. Water Regularly
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Choose a Location: Stock flowers thrive in full sun to partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.

Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil and mix in compost or a balanced fertilizer to enrich nutrient content.

Sowing Seeds: Plant seeds directly in the ground in spring or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Cover lightly with soil, as they need light to germinate.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Spacing: Space plants about 6 to 12 inches apart to allow for growth and air circulation.

Care: Fertilize every few weeks and deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

  1. Choose a Sunny Spot: Sweet peas thrive in full sun, so pick a location that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.

  2. Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a good depth, adding compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.

  3. Sow Seeds: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance when transplanting.

  4. Provide Support: Sweet peas need something to climb on. Install a trellis or netting before the plants start to grow.

  5. Water Regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells.

  6. Pinch Out Tips: When seedlings are 4-6 inches tall, pinch out the tips to encourage bushy growth.

Soil Preparation:
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade.
Ensure the soil is well-drained, rich in organic matter, and has a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Planting:
Sow seeds on the soil surface or cover lightly with a fine layer of soil, as they need light to germinate.
Space plants about 6-8 inches apart.
Care:
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Harvest:
Violas are grown for their cheerful flowers and can be picked for small bouquets.
Harvest flowers in the morning when they are freshest for the longest vase life.

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