The secret to thriving plants in spring is healthy soil - and autumn is the perfect time to give it some TLC. 

Like a chef blends ingredients to create a delicious balance of flavours, soil prep is all about getting the right mix of nutrients to create great growing conditions for plants.

Based on a one square metre area, the below is a step-by-step recipe for soil success. For best results, this recipe is best prepared and left to simmer for at least one week before planting.

 

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The first step to perfect spring soil prep is digging out weeds and unwanted plants plus breaking up soil clumps in your chosen area.

 

Recipe for soil success

Step 1: Prepare your garden bed by removing unwanted plants, weeds and stones, breaking up clumps of soil as you go. This will also help to aerate the existing soil.

Step 2: If your soil needs a top-up, grab some fresh garden mix. If you're working with a small space or don't need to add too much to your existing soil, a great bagged option is Brunnings Naturally Good Garden Soil. For larger areas, our bulk garden mix is your best friend - we've got organic and premium options to suit every garden.

Step 3: Dig in half a bag of soil additive like Supersoil Garden Compost.

Step 4: Mix in two handfuls of Blood & Bone Based Fertiliser to give plants an extra boost. Skip this step if planting natives and flowering exotics such as rhododendrons as it may be too strong.

Step 5: If you have clay soil, add gypsum.

Step 6: Rake your garden bed to ensure the soil is level.

Step 7: Plant your new additions, ideally at least one week after preparing soil.

Step 8: Spread an even layer of Organic Sugar Cane Mulch to a depth of 5cm.

Step 9: Water your newly-planted additions deeply with a Seaweed Concentrate - you can add it to a watering can or use a hose-on pack. This will act as a health tonic and help them to establish well in their new home.

Step 10: Finally, spread a handful of Supergrow Organic Fertiliser Pellets across the surface to feed your new plants.

 

Top tip: Getting your super soil ingredients home doesn't have to be difficult. You don't even need a car! Here's how Flower Power makes it easy.

  • Shop bulk and bagged goods online from the comfort of your home and select from the following convenient options:
    • Delivery to your home or job site, seven days a week.
    • Click & Collect at your local Flower Power Garden Centre.
  • Shop in-store at your local Flower Power Garden Centre, where our drive-through landscape yards make it easy to load up your own truck or trailer with bulk soils, sands and mulches.^
    • If you’re a Garden Lovers Club member, you can hire one of our free courtesy trailers to get your goodies home.* Not a Garden Lovers Club member? No worries! Click to sign up now.
    • In-store purchases can also be delivered to you, seven days a week - just ask one of our friendly Garden People in-store and they'll help you organise everything.

*Conditions apply. Click here for details.

^ Our Mascot Garden Centre does not offer a drive-through landscape yard, but they can happily arrange delivery for you. Click here to contact our Mascot team. Alternatively, shop online for bulk landscaping product delivery within the Mascot area.