By Ava Green

As soon as warm weather and sunshine arrive in Southern Ontario, it’s time to head to the garden centre and pick up all the plants we’ve been dreaming about all winter long! May 24th is generally the date we look forward to — the unofficial marker when frosty mornings are behind us and the promise of summer is ahead. 

By now, cool-weather plants like cabbage, Brussels sprouts, peas, and lettuce should be well established in the vegetable garden. And for everything else, it’s go time!

TIP: Before you start planting, this is the ideal time to amend your soil. Top up your garden beds with fresh topsoil or enrich them with compost to improve soil health, add nutrients, and promote vigorous plant growth. Don’t forget to refresh the soil in your containers as well, with potting mix or compost.

Warm Weather Vegetables

When soil temperatures are consistently 60°F (15°C) or higher, it’s safe to plant all the warm-weather vegetable crops we’ve been waiting for! Plants that thrive in warmer weather include tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucumbers, zucchini and corn.

At Eising Garden Centre, you’ll find vegetables in 6-packs, 4” pots, trellised patio containers, patio bowls and hanging baskets - while supplies last, of course!

Herbs also love warm weather, and tender varieties like basil are safe to plant once all danger of frost has passed. Whether you plant herbs directly into the ground or create a potted herb garden near the kitchen door, they’ll add fresh flavour to your meals all season long. A container of herbs also makes a wonderful gift when visiting friends and family for a summer BBQ.

While you’re in the vegetable and herb aisle, keep an eye out for everbearing strawberries in planters and containers of tropical fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges.

Annual Flowers

Winter-weary flower beds can be revived almost instantly with a burst of colourful annuals! If you’re looking for an immediate impact and blooms that last all summer long, annual flowers are the answer.

Whether you plant them in beds, containers, window boxes, or hanging baskets — or choose from one of our gorgeous pre-planted options — just add water and fertilizer, and you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant display that keeps on giving.

Perennials

While perennials may not bloom all summer, many offer extended bloom periods, and by combining different varieties, you can create a succession of flowers that lasts for months. Perennials also provide essential greenery to anchor your garden and enhance the look of your flowering plants.

You can plant perennials from spring through fall, but getting them into the ground now gives them a strong start. From hostas and ornamental grasses to daisies and delphiniums, there’s a perennial for every style of garden — and the best part is, they’ll return each spring like dependable old friends.

Trees, Shrubs and Vines

Often called “the bones” of the garden, trees, shrubs, and climbing vines add essential structure, height, and seasonal interest. Planting them now allows you to design your garden layers thoughtfully, incorporating annuals and perennials around their base.

Spring is also the prime time to purchase and plant fruit trees and fruiting shrubs. At Eising, spring offers the best selection for starting your home orchard. Are you thinking of adding a few edible shrubs? Gooseberries, haskaps, hardy kiwi, rhubarb and raspberries are excellent choices.

Mulch

Okay, it’s not a plant, but this is a reminder to add mulch to your garden beds or containers. After planting, adding a layer of mulch to your garden beds or containers helps retain soil moisture, reduces transplant shock, and suppresses weeds. Even if a few weeds manage to sneak through, mulch makes them easier to pull.

Water Garden Plants

If you have a garden pond, spring is the perfect time to add water plants. Floating plants, such as water hyacinths and water lilies, help shade the pond’s surface, reducing algae blooms. Marginal or bog plants, such as water iris, papyrus, and cattails, also help keep the water healthy and clear by improving oxygen levels and providing habitats for beneficial wildlife.

Time to Grow!

May is one of the most anticipated and exciting months in the garden. Whether you’re dreaming of fresh vegetables, a lush landscape, or a colourful flower display, planting now sets the stage for a beautiful, bountiful season. Visit us at Eising Garden Centre to find everything you need — and let’s get growing!

There is something about a beautiful cozy sweater that makes cooler weather way more bearable! Layering a new sweater with clothing staples already in the closet can also breathe new life into your wardrobe, and elevate it for the changing season. It can make everything you’re wearing feel fresh again!

Year Round Sweaters

Sweaters are a great way to stay warm and fashionable all year round, especially when you invest in one made from the right stuff. At Sassyfras in Eising Garden Centre, we have Men’s and Women’s sweaters in natural fabrics like cotton, and bamboo which are great choices for several reasons:

• Natural fibres allow your skin to breathe and are less likely to cause overheating. If you’re part of the Hot Stuff club, aka menopausal, that kind of comfort is a definite plus!
• They can be warm without being too bulky.
• These materials tend to be more durable and long-lasting. They are biodegradable and more sustainable than synthetic alternatives.

Sweater Pairings

From a chunky knit to a lightweight turtleneck, there’s a sweater to go with every style and shape.

With flowy pants, a more fitted sweater that’s tucked in or cropped can balance out the silhouette of wide-leg trousers or palazzo pants.

Form-fitting slacks like leggings look great with chunky, or slightly oversized longer sweaters, tunics or cardigans.

For men, choose a casual sweater to wear with jeans or cotton pants. If you’re dressing up, try a fine-knit sweater with dress pants for a more formal outfit.

Overall, sweaters are a great way to add interest with some pattern or texture!

Layering Made Easy

If there’s a perfect outfit for days that start out cold and get warmer, or vice versa, it’s one that’s layered. While it’s easy to grab a coat and head out the door, taking a few minutes to consider the layers you’re using can make all the difference!

1. Start with a simple cotton or viscose top, a long-sleeved t-shirt, or a collared shirt. This provides some insulation and is great for moisture-wicking.
2. Add a beautiful sweater. A chunky knit, a cardigan, or a pullover. If it’s made from natural fibres, this will provide excellent warmth while still being breathable!
3. On cooler days, add a stylish outer layer like a puffy vest, a coat or a jacket. This layer can provide more warmth or water protection plus add an extra element to your outfit.

Accessories Bring It All Together

While you’re in Sassyfras doing your sweater shopping, it’s the perfect time to look for an accessory to bring your look together and make a statement! Here are some ideas to make the most of your outfit:

• For added warmth or a pop of colour or pattern, scarves make excellent accessories for sweaters.
• A stylish bag that matches the overall look and colours can bring together the theme of your sweater outfit.
• Adding a necklace can make a bold statement or instantly dress up a plain sweater.
• Earrings can add a touch of glamour, colour or fun to your sweater ensemble.
• Consider the often-forgotten hat! They can make your outfit more chic, and also keep you warm.
• Mittens or gloves can be both cozy and stylish.
• Colour-coordinated, patterned or contrasting tights are the perfect match with a sweater dress.
• Add a belt to a tunic, sweater dress or cardigan to change the silhouette or shape of your outfit.

Most importantly, experiment and try new things, have fun and find a look that is right for you!