As the sun climbs higher and the days stretch out before us, it's clear that the Australian summer is on its way. For many of us, this heralds a season of outdoor living, with our gardens becoming the backdrop to family barbecues, lazy afternoons by the pool, and evenings spent under the stars. But before we can fully embrace the joys of the season, there's a bit of preparation to be done – and it starts with our gardens.

Nathan Stafford, the green thumb behind Nathan's Lawns and Gardens in Sydney, knows a thing or two about getting gardens into tip-top shape. With spring in full swing, he's sharing a simple yet ingenious hack that will ensure your new plants not only survive but thrive for years to come. And the best part? It's both cheap and easy to implement.


Stafford, who has gained a following on social media for his charitable work in helping Australians who struggle to maintain their gardens, has noticed that many gardeners overlook the use of tree and plant guards. Yet, these simple devices offer a multitude of benefits. Designed to shield young saplings from insects marking their territory and rodents nibbling on the bark, tree guards also provide general protection as the trees mature.


In a video shared on social media, Stafford demonstrates how these guards can be a plant's best friend. He points out a common mistake made by gardeners and homeowners alike: damaging trees with line trimmers. This seemingly small error can have fatal consequences for trees, leading to disease or death over time.


The good news is that plant guards are not only effective, but they're also incredibly affordable. You can find them at most garden and homeware stores, but for those who love a DIY project, household items like milk cartons or mesh can be repurposed into custom tree protectors. Stafford's advice is to get creative – there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to safeguarding your greenery.

While plant guards are particularly useful for younger trees, aiding in their growth, they can also be used to protect larger, more established trees, especially those under stress or with heritage value. However, Stafford cautions gardeners to monitor the guards closely. As soon as they begin to constrict the tree's growth, it's time to remove them to prevent any potential damage.

With spring being the perfect time to give your garden a little extra love, Stafford offers a few more tips to get your outdoor space ready for the warmer months:


1. Renovate your lawn: By mowing your lawn on the lowest setting, you're effectively aerating it. Follow this up with a layer of topsoil and thorough watering to ensure a lush lawn throughout summer.

2. Mulch your garden beds: Now is the ideal time to mulch, as it helps retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering and preserving your garden beds as the temperature rises.

3. Prune your trees and shrubs: Stafford recommends pruning at least four times a year. With the combination of rain and warm weather, your plants will be entering a growth spurt, making this the perfect time to shape them up.


By following these simple yet effective tips, you can transform your garden into a verdant oasis that's ready for all the pleasures summer has to offer. And remember, a little effort now will pay off with a season full of lush, healthy plants that are the envy of the neighbourhood.
So, dear readers, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and give your garden the care it deserves? Share your own gardening hacks and successes in the comments below – we'd love to hear how you're making your outdoor space bloom!