October in the garden

October marks an ideal period for gardening enthusiasts to get their hands dirty, with a special focus on palms this month. These tropical beauties not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden but also offer remarkable versatility. They can serve as effective screening plants, thrive indoors, flourish in pots, or add a stunning touch around the poolside. The exciting part is that there’s a palm variety suitable for nearly every region in Australia. In New South Wales, the golden cane palm (Dypsis lutescens) is particularly beloved, known for its lush, dense foliage and multi-stemmed nature, making it a popular choice for landscaping. For successful planting, ensure you use well-drained soil in your garden. If opting for pots, select a high-quality potting mix.

During warm and dry spells, be sure to water deeply. As a rule of thumb, fertilise during spring, summer, and autumn. If you're uncertain about which fertiliser to choose, don’t hesitate to ask our staff.

Beyond palms, consider incorporating native plants into your garden. Kangaroo paws are an excellent choice, especially the newer varieties like ‘Bush Gems.’ These are celebrated for their compact growth, long flowering season, and resilience to drought. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, so be mindful that they prefer not to sit in waterlogged conditions.