Want To Know What Veggies and Herbs To Plant In Trigg, Now It’s May?
Now that it’s finally starting to get colder and leaves are starting to tumble, I thought I’d help with some of my favourite additions to the garden for this time of year.
Coriander
Coriander is a fantastic herb to grow at the moment. It thrives in the cooler temperatures and adds a fresh burst of flavour to your dishes (unless you’re one of those people who thinks coriander tastes like soap). When planting coriander, ensure it gets partial shade to stop it from bolting too quickly, plus the soil needs to be consistently moist and ensure to harvest the leaves regularly for a continuous supply throughout the month.
Kale
Kale is a cold-hardy vegetable that performs exceptionally well in Trigg's Autumn climate. It's packed with nutrients and can tolerate light frosts, making it an ideal addition to your garden. Plant kale in well-draining soil and provide regular water to keep it healthy and alive. I heard that you should harvest the outer leaves as needed, but you should try to let the inner leaves continue to grow.
Parsley
Parsley is another versatile herb that thrives in the cooler temperatures of May. Whether you prefer curly or flat-leaf varieties, parsley adds a delightful freshness to salads, soups, and sauces. Plant parsley in a sunny spot with well-draining soil and water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Pinch off the outer leaves to encourage continuous growth throughout the month. Side note, I LOVE this recipe for homemade garlic bread and it requires fresh parsley - the fresher the better.
Spinach
Spinach, the nutrient-rich leafy green that flourishes this time of year. It's quick to grow and can be harvested multiple times throughout the month. Plant spinach in rich, fertile soil and water consistently to prevent the soil from drying out. Harvest the outer leaves when they reach a suitable size, allowing the center of the plant to continue producing new growth.
Chives
Chives, the herb that adds a mild onion taste to a variety of dishes. They are super easy to grow and thrive in the cooler weather of May. Plant chives in well-draining soil and place them in a sunny spot in your garden. Keep the soil evenly moist and harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth.
Tips for Successful Gardening in May
Watering: With the cooler temperatures and reduced evaporation rates, it's easy to overlook the watering needs of your garden. However, plants still require adequate moisture to thrive. Check the soil regularly and water deeply when necessary, ensuring the roots receive sufficient hydration.
Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around your plants helps to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic mulches such as straw, shredded leaves, or compost to provide these benefits while also enriching the soil as they break down.
Protecting Against Frost: While May in Western Australia typically experiences mild temperatures, occasional frosts can still occur, but are more likely in inland areas, further away from Trigg. But just keep an eye on weather forecasts anyway, and be prepared to cover vulnerable plants with frost cloth or old blankets overnight to protect them from frost damage.
Regular Maintenance: Stay on top of regular garden maintenance tasks such as weeding, pruning, and fertilizing. Removing weeds prevents competition for nutrients and reduces the risk of pests and diseases, while pruning promotes healthy growth and encourages fruit and flower production.
With these herbs and vegetables in your garden arsenal and a few helpful tips up your sleeve, you're well-equipped to make the most of this time of year. Embrace the cooler temperatures and enjoy the bountiful harvest that this season could bring to your Trigg garden. Happy gardening!