Spring gardening projects to lift your garden – and your spirits!

Spring is nature’s way of hitting the reset button. Flowers unfurl, trees stretch and our gardens burst back to life!

It’s the perfect season to roll up your sleeves and give your garden some seasonal TLC. Plants soak up the sunnier weather, edibles kick off their growing cycle, and getting outside works wonders for your mind, mood and soul!

Yes, a hit of sunshine, a splash of creativity, and a little hands-in-the-soil action is proven to lift spirits, clear your head and spark wellbeing.

Ready to dive into some spring gardening projects that feed you as much as your plants? Let’s get going – and growing!

Before we dig into some early spring projects, let’s quickly look at the science. There’s actually a heap of research that shows how gardening does you good.

Calm in the garden

Digging, planting and watering are like mini meditation sessions, as much as they are chores. The repetitive motions slow your mind, while spending time outdoors lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and helps steady your pulse.

Planting happiness

Sunlight tops up serotonin, your brain’s natural mood booster, which can be low after a long winter. Plus, contact with soil microbes like Mycobacterium vaccae has been linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety. Yes, your hands-in-the-dirt time is literally good for you!

Mindful weaving (and weeding out worries)

The sights, smells, and textures of your garden bring you into the present. Focusing on small tasks like planting, pruning or weeding helps break the cycle of overthinking and keeps your mind grounded. Something we can all benefit from in our busy lives!

Growing wins

Every sprout or bloom is proof that your efforts are paying off. Those little victories in the garden boost confidence, give a sense of accomplishment, and remind you that you can make things thrive. Go, you green thumb!

Space and seasons

Green spaces restore focus and clear mental clutter. And just like your plants, your energy has natural peaks and troughs. Gardening in sync with the seasons helps you move, focus and recharge naturally.

Friends, family and fun vibes

It’s a fact: gardening is better together! Make it a weekly ritual with family, neighbours or in your local community garden. Regular time outdoors grows connections, sparks joy and keeps feelings of isolation at bay.

On top of this, you’ve got the physical benefits of gardening. Digging, planting, weeding and watering build strength, improve flexibility, boost stamina and keep you moving. Plus, soaking up fresh air delivers oxygen to your brain, sharpens focus and gives your body a natural energy lift!

You can’t argue with the science! And if that hasn’t inspired you to get outside and get your hands dirty, hopefully these spring garden projects with Jack will!

Declutter, clean and tidy

Clearing out winter debris and cleaning and clearing your spaces gives your garden – and mind – room to breathe and grow. Plus, tossing out cuttings and rubbish is oddly satisfying!

Here’s a spring clean checklist to tick off as you go:

• Cut and clear winter debris – dead leaves, branches and tired old plants
• Pull out old or broken pots and containers and give them a once-over
• Use a leaf blower to sweep pathways, patios and lawns clean
• Wipe down garden furniture to remove dust, grime and cobwebs
• Pressure-wash paths, driveways and paved areas to make them sparkle
• Sweep and tidy sheds or storage areas, checking tools and equipment for damage
• Clean and sharpen garden tools so they’re ready for planting season
• Clear gutters and drains to prevent waterlogging or mossy build-up
• Remove ugly moss or algae from retaining walls, fences and edging.
• Check and repair garden lighting or irrigation systems so they shine or sprinkle again
• Rake and edge lawns for a crisp, tidy finish your neighbours will be green with envy over!

Plant bright, happy flower displays

Plant for happiness – and plant happiness! Bright, colourful flowering bulbs and blooms don’t just add beauty to your garden, they can lift your mood, spark creativity, and make every outdoor moment feel lighter and brighter.

Try these vibrant spring bulbs and plants out for size:

• Chamomile – Gentle and calming, with soft daisy-like flowers that bring instant Zen.
• Marigolds – Cheerful bursts of gold and orange that brighten any space and keep your garden lively.
• Zinnias – Bold, colourful flowers that make you crack a smile every time you see them.
• Kangaroo Paw – Iconic Aussie blooms that spark energy and always start a conversation.
• Sunflowers – Towering, sunny giants that radiate joy and positivity.
• Cosmos – Airy, delicate flowers that dance in the breeze and lift your mood.
• Gerberas – Big, bright blooms in rainbow shades that instantly feel happy.

Planting a mix of these blooms will also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies!

Check out our Garden Up Mix n Match Herb Pots or Garden Up Herb Kits – they’re perfect for this project.

Create an outdoor chill zone

It’s hard to beat sitting outside in your own backyard, sipping that morning cup of coffee, reading a book on a sunny afternoon, or savouring that early evening glass of wine or beer.

By setting up a cosy sitting area, Jack-style, you can spark some creative joy and create a space that feels calm, balanced and restorative.

Think in layers:

• Start with some Jack planters filled with greenery or ornamental grasses to soften the edges and bring nature closer.
• Add a panel as a privacy screen or backdrop to frame the space, giving it a more secluded, meditative feel. Check out our Jack Garden and Privacy Screen range.
• A bench (made from Jack Garden Gabions), a couple of chairs, or even a floor cushion on a deck can complete the picture. You could even add a hammock for holiday vibes!

Keep it uncluttered and intentional, and you’ll have your own quiet pocket for reflection, grounding, and slow living, right outside your door.

See also: How to build a gabion bench seat

Transform your backyard into a calm, uplifting space with an easy Jack Garden Up® vertical gardening project.

The simple act of planting herbs, leafy greens or pretty trailing flowers into our modular vertical system makes for a meditative few hours. Digging, placing, and arranging plantlings will slow the mind and bring a sense of focus and satisfaction.

Once planted, your wall, balcony or corner will bloom into a lush, living backdrop that soothes the senses and gives your outdoor space a fresh perspective, all without taking up extra ground space.

Nothing lifts a backyard like a burst of herby fragrance. So, add planting an herb garden to your spring gardening project list. Here are some of our favourite varieties and the smelly benefits that make them the perfect pick:

• Lavender – Its soothing aroma helps ease away stress and anxiety, and helps you catch some zzzs.
• Mint – The fresh, zesty scent energises the mind and lifts your spirits, making it great for a mid-morning mental boost.
• Rosemary – Its scent is linked to improved focus, clarity and memory, helping you stay present while tending your plants.
• Basil – The bright, uplifting aroma sparks creativity and adds a little zing to your mood, making gardening feel fun and energising.
• Thyme – Its gentle fragrance promotes relaxation and eases tension, perfect for slowing down and enjoying the moment.
• Oregano – Earthy and grounding, oregano’s scent can help steady emotions and foster a sense of calm.
• Lemon balm – Citrus notes refresh the mind, reduce anxiety, and create a little mental pick-me-up as you potter around.

Planting and tending these smelly herbs is its own little meditation. Trimming blooms, rubbing leaves between your fingers, and arranging them in pots and planters or borders slows the mind and reconnects you with the now.

Whether you tuck them into Jack planters, line a pathway or mix them into your garden beds, these aromatic herbs turn your outdoor space into a sensory escape – and make your plates more delicious!

A few hours spent pottering around pots and planters or raised beds is the perfect way to slow down, clear your head and destress. It’s hands-on, calming, and satisfying.

Even just moving existing pots around, swapping seedlings or updating raised beds gives your outdoor space a fresh spring vibe while keeping you grounded.

If you want to start afresh – it is the season after all – grab yourself some Jack planters and create a lush green display (our Oxyshield Copa and Café series add some serious style).

Alternatively, make this the season to set up your very first vegie garden mixing colours, textures and flavours – herb corners, leafy greens, tomato clusters or edible flowers. Check out our classic Square Raised Garden Bed. Nothing beats the joy of growing your own fresh produce!

You could even plant some fruit trees.

See also:

Jack’s no-fuss guide to container gardening for newbies

Sow, grow, harvest! Top vegetables to plant in spring

Bring your garden to life even after the spring sun sets! Solar lights – whether stick in the ground or stylish festoon style – are perfect for lining pathways, highlighting corners, or casting a soft glow around your new chill zone.

Just hang or pop them in and let the sun do the work without the wiring or fuss. The gentle evening light creates a calm, mindful atmosphere, perfect for slowing down and resetting after a busy day.

Pair the lighting with decorative touches like Jack trainers and trellises (there are some really fun designs in our range!), screens and artwork (check out Jack Matrix) or planters with decorative rocks and pebbles. These elements not only add personality but also give your garden structure and rhythm.

Add lanterns, wind chimes or hanging planters or baskets for extra sensory appeal. The soft sounds, shadows and textures help turn your backyard into a mindful retreat.

See also: Style stunning skyline gardens with hanging baskets

Now we’ve covered our spring gardening projects, here are some frequently asked questions to help you on your way.

Q: When’s the best time to kick off spring gardening?

A: Anytime the soil’s workable and frost isn’t a worry! For most of Australia, that’s usually late August to September. This time of year is perfect for planting, pottering, and giving your garden a fresh start.

Q: Can I refresh my garden without blowing the budget?

A: Absolutely! Start by tidying up, pruning, reusing existing pots and asking friends and neighbours for plant cuttings. Jack planters, like our Garden Up Petite Wall, garden screens and trellises give a stylish lift while going easy on your wallet.

Q: How often should I water my garden in spring?

A: It depends on your soil, plants and weather. Raised beds and containers dry out faster, so check the moisture a few times a week. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are perfect for consistent watering and keeping the soil moist, so they don’t wilt and die.

Q: Which plants are best for boosting mood and wellbeing?

A: Go for fragrant and colourful picks like lavender, mint, basil, rosemary, chamomile, marigolds, zinnias, and kangaroo paw. They smell ah-mazing, look gorgeous, and some even attract flying pollinators!

Q: How do I start a small relaxation zone in my backyard?

A: Keep it simple. A few Jack planters filled with greenery, a bench or floor cushions, maybe a trellis or privacy panel. Add a cup of tea and a good book, and you’ve got your mindful retreat!

Q: What’s the easiest way to create a vertical garden?

A: Grab a Garden Up modular system! Plant herbs, leafy greens, or pretty trailing flowers. The process of filling it is relaxing, and the end result is a lush, calming wall without taking up ground space.

Q: Can gardening really reduce stress and improve mood?

A: Absolutely! Digging, planting, and watering lower cortisol, boosts serotonin, and even soil microbes like Mycobacterium vaccae can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Your garden is your natural therapy session!

Q: How do I incorporate mindful practices while gardening?

A: Focus on textures, scents, colours, and the repetitive motions of planting or pruning. It’s a mini meditation that keeps your mind in the moment and weeds out overthinking.

Q: Should I focus on flowers, vegetables or herbs first?

A: Mix it up! Flowers lift your mood, herbs give aroma and flavour, and vegies reward you with homegrown goodness. Companion planting in a vegetable garden also helps plants thrive naturally.

Q: What are common spring gardening mistakes to avoid?

A: Overplanting without a plan, ignoring soil prep and health, or choosing the wrong seasonal plants. Think ahead, prep well, and plant smart.

Q: How can I make my backyard enjoyable both day and night?

A: Add subtle lighting, such as festoon lights or lanterns, and finishing touches like Jack planters, trellises and hanging baskets. These create a calming, mindful atmosphere perfect for evening chilling.

Ready to give your garden – and yourself – a spring reset? Grab your favourite Jack products, head to your nearest local supplier, and get outside to start your mindful, relaxing garden projects.

Smiling with pride over your refreshed spaces? Snap a few pics and share them on socials, tagging @meetdiyjack. We can’t wait to see how you’ve kicked off prime growing season!

After more seasonal inspiration? Check out these other helpful resources:

Winter gardening tips – what to do and what to grow