Bunnings has revealed the best plants to get in the soil now that summer has arrived. More Australians feeling the pinch in supermarkets are turning to growing their own food.
The popular hardware giant said now is the time to start considering which plants to get started on so you can “thank yourself later when that fresh harvest hits”. Melbourne mum Yen Nguyen has an abundant, thriving garden that she’s now able to feed her family from.
She told Yahoo Lifestyle that realising she needed to “grow with the seasons and not against them” was a game-changer for her.
“It’s tempting to plant whatever you feel like, but if you choose crops that actually suit the time of year, they’ll reward you with faster, healthier growth and less stress for you,” she said.
What should I plant now in my edible garden?
Bunnings listed nine fruits and vegetables you can find in-store now to kick off your summer harvest.
Yen said talking to nurseries in your area was a great way to work out what should be planted when.
The mum-of-three said not to “make things harder than they need to be” and recommended beginners not to start growing from seeds.
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The Melbourne mum has harvested a range of vegetables from her backyard.
“If growing from seed feels overwhelming, skip that step and start with seedlings,” she said.
“It’s such a confidence booster to see them take off quickly, and it keeps the joy in gardening rather than frustration.”
Seedlings are young plants that have recently germinated from seeds and are in the early stages of growing.
You can buy most seedlings recommended by Bunnings for under $5.
Bunnings listed chives, rocket and watermelon among the best “easy grow” options.
When it comes to veggies, Yen suggested starting with “easy wins” such as her beloved zucchini, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, radishes, and pumpkins.
“When planted in the right season, they grow quickly, don’t need too much fussing, and give you a big, visible payoff,” Yen said.
Bunnings said rockmelon and beans were also a great option to plant now. Picture: Bunnings
How to best cultivate a thriving edible garden
Yen has a few pieces of advice for Aussies looking to grow an edible garden.
The first is making sure your soil is healthy and “full of nutrients”.
“The easiest way is to buy a bag of good quality potting mix and add in some compost and/or manure — that way you know your plants are starting in nutrient-rich soil,” she said.
“Think of it as feeding the soil so the soil can feed your plants then those nutrient dense plants feed you.”
Yen is a fan of Scotts’ Organic range – everything from the brand’s Organic Plant Food to its Soil Improver and Potting Mix. And it’s available for just $16 in Bunnings.
Next you need to think about sunlight.
“Most veggies need at least six hours of direct sun a day, so pick the brightest spot you’ve got,” Yen said.
After that, Yen said “water is key”.
“Plants don’t like drying out, so aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy,” she said.
Finally, Yen suggested thinking about how to make the most of the space you have.
“You can grow upwards with a trellis for tomatoes or cucumbers, or even hang baskets for strawberries and herbs,” the gardener said.
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