what to plant in spring nz
Gardening /

Wondering What To Plant In Spring? Advice For Beginner Gardeners

Author: Jamie Quinn
Spring in New Zealand is a gardener’s playground, I’m told. It’s that magical time when the promise of warmth starts to peek through the winter chill.

But if you’re anything like me, who once killed a cactus, a thriving garden seems like an unreachable, monumental dream. They say just start small! But how? What do I plant and when? Well, my brown-thumbed friend, I’ve done the research, so you don’t have to.

August/September is the perfect time to start planting a variety of flowers and vegetables that will flourish as the season changes. Timing is everything! So, if you're wondering what to plant for a thriving spring garden, you're in the right place. Let’s struggle through this together!

Laying The Groundwork

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what to plant, let’s talk about preparing your garden bed. Rich, well-drained soil is the secret to happy plants. Incorporate plenty of compost or aged manure to feed those hungry roots. If you’ve got heavy clay soil, adding some sand can improve drainage. Top tip: a good layer of mulch will help retain moisture and suppress weeds. See also our top tips for the lazy gardener.

Consider using frost cloth to protect your young plants from late winter frosts. These simple tools can make a big difference in helping your plants get off to a good start.

Finally, keep an eye out for pests. Slugs, snails, and other garden pests can quickly damage young plants. Use natural pest control methods, such as beer traps for slugs or planting companion plants that deter pests, to keep your garden healthy.

Flowers To Plant In Spring

Spring is a fantastic time to introduce some colour to your garden. Think of it as setting the stage for a spring.

best plants for spring

Primroses

Primroses are delightful little flowers that signal the arrival of spring. Primroses prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. They are relatively easy to grow and make excellent additions to borders, rock gardens, or plant pots. 

Pansies

Pansies are hardy annuals that can withstand the cooler temperatures of August. They come in a variety of colours and can brighten up any garden. Plant them in well-drained soil in a sunny to partially shaded area. Pansies are great for borders and containers, adding colour and a cottage-like feel to your garden.

Sweet Peas

Sweet peas are known for their fragrant blooms and climbing habit. They thrive in cooler weather and are perfect for planting in early Spring. Plant the seeds directly into the ground in a sunny spot and provide support for them to climb. Sweet peas will reward you with beautiful, fragrant flowers.

Ranunculus

Ranunculus bulbs produce stunning, multi-petaled flowers in a range of colours. Plant the bulbs in well-drained soil in a sunny location. They require some protection from heavy frosts, so if you're in a particularly cold area, consider planting them in pots that can be moved indoors if necessary.

Vegetables To Plant In Spring

Spring is also a prime time to get your veggie patch off to a flying start. Cool-season crops like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage love the cooler weather. You can also sow seeds for leafy greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and rocket. These quick-growing crops will provide you with fresh salads in no time.

Spinach

Spinach is a fast-growing leafy green that thrives in cool weather. Plant the seeds directly into the ground in a sunny to partially shaded spot. Spinach is perfect for salads and cooking, and planting in late August ensures a continuous supply of fresh greens as the weather warms up.

Lettuce

Lettuce is another fast-growing leafy green that can be planted in Spring. There are various varieties to choose from, including butterhead, romaine, and leaf lettuce. Plant the seeds directly into the ground in a sunny to partially shaded spot.

Broad Beans

Broad beans are a fantastic vegetable to plant in Spring. They are hardy and can withstand the cooler weather, making them perfect for an early start. Plant the seeds directly into the ground in a sunny spot. Broad beans are not only delicious but also help improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen.

Carrots

Carrots are a versatile root vegetable that can be planted in early September. They prefer well-drained, loose soil and a sunny location. Sow the seeds directly into the ground and thin them out as they grow. Carrots take a little longer to mature, but planting early ensures they are ready for harvest in late spring.

Keep Climate In Mind

Remember, New Zealand has a diverse climate. What grows well in one region might struggle in another. It’s always a good idea to check with your local garden centre for specific advice. They’ll be able to recommend plants that are well-suited to your area. 

So, there you have it—a simple-ish guide to transforming your garden from a barren wasteland to a blooming oasis for Spring—or, if you’re like me, a slightly less barren wasteland with a few confused-looking plants. But hey, even a brown thumb can appreciate the beauty of nature, right? Remember, gardening is all about trial and error and cursing at snails. Good luck, and may the gardening gods be with you (or at least not against you).

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