You reap what you sow — and it starts in spring

What isn’t so simple is deciding what to put in the ground first.

That’s why we turned to Larry Smith of Riverside Gardens in Kialla to narrow it down to his top five plant picks for spring.

1. Kalanchoe

If you’re looking for a plant that combines beauty with resilience, Kalanchoe Freedom Bells is your answer. With flat green leaves, burgundy stems, and a cascade of vibrant red, bell-shaped flowers, this succulent thrives almost anywhere you dig it.

“It makes a really good hanging basket, and it also makes a good small ground cover too,” Larry said.

“Flowers for months on end – and it’s quite showy.”

2. Camellia

When most of the garden is still shaking off its frosty shackles, camellias have already sprung free. Ranked among the best flowering shrubs, camellias come in various colours, from delicate whites to vibrant pinks and reds.

They’re hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and suitable for both large gardens and smaller courtyards. Growing up to 4m, camellias are true performers where you need colour the most.

3. Loopy Lou

This compact, fast-growing Australian native lives up to its playful name. Establishing quickly and reaching around a meter in height, Loopy Lou delights with large flowers in shades of pink and yellow.

“They flower on and off all year round, with the main flush from spring through to early summer,” Larry said.

“They’re a good, hearty Australian native, and easy to grow.”

Just give it sun, a light trim after flowering, and a handful of fertiliser, and it will reward you season after season.

4. Corymbia Wildfire

For sheer drama, few can rival the Corymbia Wildfire. This compact native bursts into fiery red flowers that smother its dense canopy during summer, feeding nectar-loving birds and turning heads at the same time.

“When they’re in full flower, you can hardly notice the foliage because there’s that much flower over the top of them,” Larry said.

“They’re really spectacular.”

Hardy and resilient, this is a statement tree for gardeners who want a year-round feature.

5. Leucadendron

Bold and colourful, leucadendrons thrive in hot weather and drought-prone gardens. Their bright foliage makes them just as attractive as flowers, and they’re perfect for cut arrangements that last indoors.

“And the more you cut them, the more colour you’ll get,” Larry said.

“They’ll flower for months on end.

“They like a good, well-drained position, no fertiliser, plenty of neglect.”

Don’t be a late bloomer

When shaking off the winter blues and getting your hands in the soil, remember not to skip on the seedlings – the season is ripe for planting them.

“Spring is the best time to get growth – the most growth all year round,” Larry said.

“By getting in early and making the most of it, you get a jump on the rest of the year for your garden.”