Thursday, January 16, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

FLORALS FOR YOUR GARDEN’S SEASONAL TRANSITION

As the seasons transition from summer to autumn and you have no idea what to plant, here’s a helpful planting guide with some growers that do well in both seasons. The Whitsundays is located in the Wet & Dry Tropical zones of north Queensland and the plants below can handle the weather and the heat.
Starting small with some ground cover, the native coleus is great for damp soil, sun or part shade and naturally thrives in eucalypt forests and rainforests. They are hardy, tough little plans that can be pruned into shape and are suitable for hedging and bordering gardens. Their little purple flowers attract bees, and when rubbed the leaves produce a mild lemon scent.
Marigolds and sunflowers, though not native, have been a staple in Australian gardens for years. They are also productive plants for those who like growing edible flora. From collecting your own sunflower seeds or putting marigold petals in your salads, to insect attraction for those wanting help with crop pollination and honey production. Having both of these in your gardens will help them thrive as marigolds also repel harmful pests, and both flowers come in varying sunny colours, so you can mix and match them.
For a hardy-medium-sized plant, kangaroo paw is a great choice to give levels to your garden. With cute little flowers, from where it takes its name and native to Western Australia means it can definitely survive in your garden. It’s a big attractor of native birds and very low effort to care for, plant it in large groups for the best flowering results.
Get gardening and show off your green thumbs, your native fauna with thank you!

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