Hydrangeas Growing beans Brunfelsia
PRINT POST APPROVED PP 424022/00409
Daylilies
Tomatoes Small wonders Water plants Strawberries Sweet corn
ISSUE 62
SPRING2012
For more gardening hints & tips, visit www.aboutthegarden.com.au
Issue 62
NEED A WEED KILLER THAT IS SAFE TO USE ON
Buffalo Lawns?
SPRING2012
About this issue... Features
Creative combos Small plant, big impact Water plants Strawberry fields Sweet corn
Ideal for controlling bindii, clover, oxalis and other weeds in Buffalo lawns including Sir Walter and Palmetto*.
Spilling the beans Be no stranger, Hydrangea! Beautiful brunfelsia Dazzling daylilies Tasty tomatoes Recipe: Fresh tomato bruschetta
Regulars
Spring 2012 Garden Diary Spring 2012 handy hints & tips Subscribe to About the Garden
4 6 8 10 10 11 18 19 20 22 23 12 14 23
What a glorious time it is to be in the spring garden and to see nature coming back to life after a difficult winter. Vibrant colour, bountiful produce and flowers, flowers, flowers are the keywords for the season. Happy gardening, God bless...
n my law
Con Searle
The Lord is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous. — Proverbs 15:29
* Before using this product, always read the product label for full directions, applications, safety and handling directions. Not suitable to be used on ST varieties of Buffalo grass.
• Managing Director: Conway Searle • Contributors: Claire Bickle, Noel Burdette, Frida Forsberg, Alana Searle, Ashley Searle & Chelsea Van Rijn • Magazine Manager: Alana Searle • Design & Layout: Frida Forsberg — ATG Graphics Dept. • ATG Group Co-ordinator & Advertising: Jason Searle • Front Cover Photography: Tibouchina ‘Peace Baby’ by Plants Management Australia
Available from ATG garden centres
Garden Products
www.searles.com.au
About the Garden is published seasonally by About the Garden Pty. Ltd. ABN 21 076 919 992 4914 D’Aguilar Highway, Kilcoy or P.O. Box 70, Kilcoy Qld. 4515 Phone: (07) 5422 3090 • Fax: (07) 5497 2287 Email: atg@aboutthegarden.com.au The material appearing in About the Garden is subject to copyright. Other than as permitted by the Copyright Act, no part of this magazine may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers. No responsibility is accepted by About the Garden Pty. Ltd. for the accuracy of information contained in the text, illustrations or advertisements. Although believed to be accurately and correctly sourced, thereof disclaims any liability against itself, editor/s or employees arising from any person acting on the material herein. The opinions expressed in the magazine, or by contributors, do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. ©Copyright 2012 About the Garden Pty. Ltd.
Orange dahlia and cockscomb offset blue salvia and torenia
by Noel Burdette
by Noel Burdette
Leafy ornamental sweet potato complements the feathery foliage of ornamental grasses.
This bold orange pot highlights the bronze tones in the ornamental potato ‘Sun Kisses’ and the golden flowers of ‘Peek a boo’ (Spilanthes oleracea). A productive mix of herbs, berries and flowering annuals.
Creative combos
With house blocks getting smaller and backyards even more so, the simple pleasure of flowers and colour can be all the more important in our daily lives. With colourful plants in containers, those of us who live in apartments, units or townhouses can still enjoy every beauty of the warm season.
Plant selection Potted features don’t always have to be fleeting. Although flowering annuals are an inexpensive option for those on a tight budget, some of the longer term perennials which are widely available through your local garden centre are also an excellent option. By planting these, you can be assured of many months, and sometimes years of enjoyment.
Delicate darlings Depending on your climate, plants such as torenia, heuchera and calibrachoa are
small enough to be enjoyed in pots or even hanging baskets where their delicate growth habits can be well-showcased.
Tuberous plants Tuberous plants also such as dahlia, freesia, or even species of narcissus like daffodils or jonquils make wonderful additions to pots and combine well with other small flowering plants.
Classy grass Large containers are recommended for the larger grasses such as Pennisetum or Miscanthus as these can quickly establish thick clumps which can overshadow other plants in the pots. In smaller pots, a dwarf variety of grass could be a more desirable alternative. One of the best smaller grasses to come on the market in recent times is the native, dwarf Lomandra ‘Shara’. This exquisitely foliaged cultivar will only grow to 50cm tall and provides a delightful structural and tactile element to any mixed planting. It combines effortlessly with other small natives such as dwarf kangaroo paw.
Functional displays
4
This planting of pelargoniums and dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ is hardy in hot, sunny positions.
The variegated leaves of heuchera with black mondo grass ‘Nigresc ens’
Grouping small-growing herbs is a wonderful way to create a productive feature that is also admired for its beauty.
Productive plants like thyme, oregano, strawberry, savoury, brahmi (memory herb), curly leaf parsley, garlic chives or wild rocket are wonderful together. For good measure and extra colour, throw in some flowering lobelia, alyssum, primula or verbena.
Beauty in the shade Most of the plants mentioned so far will bring best results in a full sun position. Shaded areas however, need not be overlooked as there are some beautiful plants that are perfect for shady corners on balconies or patios. Combining plants we’ve come to know as ‘indoor plants’ can provide us with just as much interest as their sun loving counterparts. Always use tough, dependable species that thrive in lower light areas. This will ensure minimal care. Plants such as cast Iron plant (Aspidistra sp.), bromeliads, spider plant, (Chloraphytum sp.), calathea, prayer plant (Maranta sp.), assorted native ferns, native violet (Viola hederacea), or even English violet (Viola odorata) can all be mixed and matched to create unique combinations to brighten up dull corners.
Be a good provider Remember that plants in pots cannot derive their nutrition from any other outside source
and with regular watering, nutrients can leach out of a potting mix much faster than they will from a garden bed. An application every two months or so with a dependable, slow release fertiliser such as Searles Robust can ensure lost nutrients are contiually replaced.
The perfect gift Combination plantings in pots make for both eye-catching and thoughtful gifts for people for any occasion, be it birthday, house warming, get well or Christmas time.
Aspidistra (top), spider plant (bottom left) and purple-flowering mona lavender (right) are a striking combo for shady spots.
Top 6 combo tips
When creating mixed potted features, its important to understand the growing habits of each plant. Here are some tips for outstanding potted displays.
1. When growing plants in pots, avoid varieties that need lots of moisture as these can become hard work during hot weather.
2. Only plant together those plants which enjoy similar levels of sunlight (such as full sun, light shade or full shade). They should also have similar watering needs.
3. Group plants that grow at the same rate as each other, so they will be in their best display of flowers or foliage at the same time.
4. To create interest, group plants which have contrasting colours and textures. For example, plant small flowers next to large ones, glossy foliage next to ‘furry’ or frilly leaves and mix bold, hot colours with chromatic greys or white. This creates drama and appeal. The fleshy leaves of succulents or feathery foliage of ornamental grasses can be the perfect foil for plants whose bold flowers or foliage makes a stronger statement.
5. Always use a potting mix of the highest quality. This is a small investment which can avoid back-breaking work and possibly heartbreak later on. Potted plants rely entirely on the potting mix, food and water you provide them with so use reliable mixes like Searles Peat 80 Plus or Searles Premium Potting Mix. These mixes will provide long-lasting nutrition, reduce the need to water as frequently and promote strong plant and root development. This in turn, enhances your plants’ natural resistance to disease, temperature extremes and other adverse conditions.
6. Place feature pots in areas that are easily noticeable such as verandas, patios or balconies. If a kitchen, bedroom or bathroom window faces onto a boring fence, for example, this could be the perfect opportunity for a po pott potted t ed tt e creation!
5
Small plant, This spring, we’ve chosen our favourite small plants for a range of qualities such as striking flowers, foliage or fruit. They are also easy to care for in most parts of Australia. Best of all, these plants are all compact and perfect for small gardens, courtyards or interiors. Our front cover plant, Tibouchina ‘Peace Baby’ grows 60cmH and 80cmW with large, white flowers through the warmer months. Prefers a moist, well-drained soil and needs little water once established. Feed it with Searles Robust Plus every spring for a beautiful flowering season. Cold tolerant.
‘Aussie Box™’ Westringea recently won a gold medal for its amazing landscape potential. A naturally small, ball-shaped shrub, it is a great native alternative to English box and other box hedges. Also perfect for borders and mass planting, it grows to 60cmH x 60cmW unpruned and can be pruned smaller. A tough performer and tolerant of most soils, plant it in full sun to part shade.
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Nandina ‘Murasaki Flirt™’ (Nandina domestica) bears striking striking, red new growth for most of the year. With its dense, mounding habit (25–45cmH), it makes a great small groundcover or low hedge. Murasaki Flirt is frost, drought and humidity tolerant, enjoys most soil types and will grow happily in full sun or part shade. Spikes of white flowers appear in spring.
‘Archangel’ (Angelonia angusƟfolia) has blooms up to 3 times larger than other angelonia and is the perfect bedding plant in warmer climates, being heat and humidity tolerant. Available in white, pink and purple, give Archangel a full sun position for best performance. These compact perennials will grow 40cm high and should be planted 30cm apart. Great as a pot specimen or mass planted in the garden.
‘ ‘Little Ruby’ (Alternanthera dentata) is a beautiful low bush (60–90cmW x 40cmH). b IIts dense, burgundy foliage is almost iridescent pink on the underside. Great in borders, as p a groundcover, in pots or hanging baskets. T Tolerant of full sun or shade, give it a welld drained soil and keep moist in dry weather. It loves humidity. Protect from frost.
The truly beautiful Phalaenopsis orchid is surprisingly easy to grow. Place it in a well-lit, warm position in the house. Water soil completely once a week in summer — less often in winter. Make sure the soil drains well. Feed with Searles Flourish Orchid Booster fortnightly through the growing period and before flowering.
‘Cute Stuff’ Capsicum (Capiscum annum) bears masses of tiny, bell-shaped fruit (about 6-8cm in size) on a plant standing only 70cm tall. Like other capsicums, Cute Stuff loves the heat, so plant it in full sun. Remove the seeds and stuff these snack-sized capsicums with your favourite filling for something different at your next party.
Rhaphiolepsis ‘Cosmic White™’ (Rhaphiolepsis indica) is a very hardy evergreen shrub that will grow in most conditions. It has larger flowers than the common form, yet it doesn’t produce viable seed which is great news for the environment. Flowering profusely through spring and throughout most of the year, it will grow about 2m high and spread 1.5m. Plant it in full sun or part shade.
See the About the Garden seasonal garden diary on page 12 for a map of climate zones.
7
by Claire Bickle
Tropical waterlilies
Miniature waterlily
Woolly frogmouth flower
Water canna (Thalia dealbata)
The wondrous world of
water plants
Whether you have acreage or just a balcony garden, water features and aquatic plants can be an essential part of your outdoor living area.
es hold their Tropical waterlili e water line. th e ov ab flowers
Water gardens, fountains, even simple, glazed bowls or pots of water can add a creative and calming aspect to your garden, alfresco or veranda area. The sound of running water can be wonderfully soothing on a hot summer’s day. The reflection off a water feature can add more light, interest and depth to an outdoor area. Most importantly, a water feature can create habitat for various creatures such as frogs, lizards, insects, birdlife and of course, fish.
Getting started Choose your feature and location. Is it going to be an elaborate pond with a fountain or something simpler such as a sealed, glazed pot filled with water?
Choose your plants Most water plants need a sunny position to perform at their best. Of course, there are many that will happily tolerate a more shaded position.
Water plant varieties Ponds, water pots and birdbaths all make great water stations for native birds.
There are hundreds if not thousands of species of water plants and their hybrids to choose. A combination of ‘oxygenators’, ‘floating aquatics’ and ‘marginal plants’ should be considered. (The number of each depends on the type and size of your water feature.)
Lotus flower op
ening
Water poppy mphoides) (Hydrocleys ny
8
Lepironia articulata is a native sedge of south-east Queensland.
A water pond can be a peaceful and tranquil sight. Many Japanese style gardens just wouldn’t be complete without a water feature.
Adding fish to your pond or water feature will help prevent the breeding of mosquitoes and is a legal requirement in some councils. Oxygenators will help keep the water clean and prevent green algae growth. They will grow fully submerged in the water. Some excellent oxygenators are: water thyme (Hydrilla spp.), eelgrass (Vallisneria spp.), and hornwort (Ceratopetalum demersum). Floating submerged aquatics grow with their roots in the water but their foliage floating on the surface. They provide cover for fish and keep the water temperature down, and this can reduce algae problems. These plants can also prevent excessive evaporation of water. One of these plants will usually suffice, especially in smaller features. Some good floating aquatic plants are: water poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides), water lily (Nymphaea spp.), lotus (Nelumbo spp.), native water fringe (Nymphoides variegata & indica), and nardoo (Marsilea drummondii).
Water lilies (Nymphaea spp.)
Water plant care
Waterlilies would be by far the most popular of water plants. They flower in a multitude of colours and there are now many named cultivars to choose from. Waterlilies need water a minimum of 30cm deep and a full sun position to perform and flower at their best. They also prefer still water, so avoid placing your waterlily in running water or too close to a fountainhead. If space is an issue there are miniature waterlilies available. If you entertain at night, maybe a nocturnal flowering form could add a bit of a wow factor to your outdoor entertaining area. The nocturnal waterlilies can even be used as a cut flower at nighttime. Note that the tropical varieties of waterlily will hold their flowers above the water and varieties that come under the name ‘hardy’ will have their flowers sitting directly on the water.
Re-potting can be done — preferably in spring — by taking your water plant out, Water canna re-potting using a flower (detail) clay-based mix/soil and topping it off with some river sand. To feed, place some slow-release fertiliser or manure pellets down the side of the pot before applying the sand layer. No more than around 1-2 teaspoons needs to be added. To fertilise plants without repotting them, create a hole down one side of the pot and bury the fertiliser in the clay mix. (Waterlilies can be fertilised up to 3 times during the growing season for optimal growth.) Most water plants that need to grow in a pot will be sold in pots that can be submerged in the water, as is. Some nurseries however, will sell aquatic plants bare-rooted.
The sacred lotus (Nelumbo spp.)
These are a favourite amongst water feature owners, mostly because of their fabulous, showy flowers that sit up above the waterline throughout the warmer months of the year. They need full sun, 4-6 hours a day and a water depth between 30-50cm. They should be fed at least four times a year in spring and summer. In cold climates they will die down completely during the winter. Most parts of the lotus are edible: root tubers, Marginal plants grow on the edge or ‘banks’ flowers and seeds. There are mini lotus over the water. They make an attractive hybrid varieties available to suit smaller design statement and provide habitat water features. for birds, insects and frogs. They absorb Edible aquatics excessive nutrients from your pond, which Do you want to grow your own produce in can help prevent green algae problems. your pond? Then give these a go: Lebanese Some favourite marginal water plants are: cress (Aethionema cordifolium), kang native sedge (Lepironia articulata), blue pickerel (Pontederia cordata), water canna kong (Ipomea aquatica), water chestnuts (Eleocharis dulcis), duck potato (Saggitaria (Thalia dealbata), woolly frogsmouth sagittifolia), Vietnamese mint (Pericaria (Philydrum lanuginosum), zebra rush odorata), taro (Colocasia esculenta), rice ‘Zebrinus’ (Scirpus tabernaemontai), plant (Limnophila aromatica) and water Louisiana iris (Iris lousiana), Canna spp. cress (Nasturtium officinale). and lizard’s tail (Saururus cernus).
Weed alert! Depending on your location, some plants in this article might be a weed risk; even the native species. Please ask at your nursery for advice on plants for your area. True floating aquatics such as duckweed and azolla are potential weeds and should never be placed in dams.
9
Strawberry fields... Plant l strawberries b i now ffor a llong and dd delicious li i harvest throughout the warm season. There’s nothing better than the sweet flavour of home-grown strawberries! Loved by children and adults alike, it’s little wonder this easy-to-grow groundcover is among the most popular food crops in Australian home gardens. With its pretty white or pale pink flowers and familiar red berries which curiously bear their seeds on the outside, strawberries will crop throughout spring and summer with many varieties continuing through autumn.
strawberry plants are best planted in June and July. (Tropical gardeners might prefer to put them in earlier, say from March to May to give them the longest growing season. Give strawberries a sunny position and improve the soil by digging in plenty of Searles 5IN1 Plus before planting. Good drainage is essential, so build up garden beds if your soil is heavy clay. Strawberries are also ideal for growing in pots, planters or even in hanging baskets on a sunny balcony or courtyard.
Everywhere outside the tropics, new
Maintain a good layer of mulch over the soil.
This will conserve moisture, but it will also keep fruit in good condition by preventing it from touching the ground. Strawberries produce runners which makes them easy to propagate. It is recommended that strawberry plants be removed, thinned and the runners replanted every few years to ensure good crops and avoid overcrowding. Birds love strawberries as much as we do, so protect them with netting or place wire cages over your plants to protect your crop.
Spilling the
beans
Sweet corn Sweet corn can be planted from late spring until early autumn throughout Australia and all year round in the tropics. Sweet corn can be purchased as seed of which there are many varieties, or seedlings which come in a limited range. It is important to bear in mind that only one variety of corn should be cultivated in the garden at any one time as cross-pollination can adversely affect the quality of your crop. Blocks of a dozen or more plants, grown at three-monthly intervals should provide a continual supply of food for the average family. Blocks of sweet corn demand space, so plant them where they will not be crowded out by other species. They need deep, rich soil, and a sunny position in a windprotected area. Sweet corn is one of the few vegetables that can tolerate boggy
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soil providing the site is in a hot position. Dig the soil deep — at least 30cm — incorporating generous amounts of Searles 5IN1 Plus to promote lush growth. Sweet corn pollinate themselves more effectively if grown in blocks rather than in rows of plants. Sow the seed directly into the soil and water well. Always plant seed to the depth and spacing recommended on the packet. If planting out seedlings, make sure the root ball is anchored well into the soil. Keep moist and well-mulched. Sweet corn demand a lot of water. However, it is important to keep the cobs dry as they mature, so water only the roots and avoid watering the foliage and developing cobs. As the tall stems develop they often produce roots above the ground. Build a layer of mulch up around these to prevent
them from drying out. To make best use of the space taken up by a block of sweet corn, ‘living mulch’ vegetables such as cucumbers and pumpkins can be planted between the corn and allowed to spread around them. Watch for aphids, borers and caterpillars of the corn earworms in the tops of the cobs and spray with Searles Bug Beater if the infestation is bad. Birds, bats and rodents can also attack the corn as it begins to ripen. If necessary, protect the cobs with individual bags. Beans, cucumbers, potato, pumpkin, radish, summer squash and zucchini are good companion plants for sweet corn. As the corn ripens, the silk tassels which hang from the top of each cob turn dark brown. To test whether the corn is ripe enough to eat, peel back a small section of the papery casing and break open a kernel with your fingernail. If the liquid that comes out is clear the corn is not ripe; if it is milky it can be harvested immediately.
Beans are an easy-to-grow, productive and nutritious warm-season crop. Eaten cooked or raw, they are an excellent source of dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals and micronutrients. Beans prefer a slightly acidic soil between pH 6.5–5.5. They need full sun and a well-drained, friable soil. At least two weeks before planting, loosen the soil to 15–20cm deep, breaking up any large clods. Add Searles Real Organic Compost to a depth of about 10cm. Beans are not heavy feeders; in fact, they will fix their own fertiliser (nitrogen) in the soil. If the soil is too fertile they will likely produce too many leaves at the expense of beans. If beans are growing too slowly, a fortnightly dose of Searles Fish & Kelp Plus should tune up the soil around the plants. Beans are available either as ‘climbers’ or ‘bush beans’. Climbing beans grow vertically and can produce large volumes of beans in relatively little garden space. They can be ideal for sunny courtyards and smaller gardens.
sure the last frost has passed before planting. Space plants as recommended on the seed packet or punnet — avoid planting them too closely as overcrowding can encourage fungal diseases. Do not repeatedly plant beans in the same garden bed — practice crop rotation as this will maintain soil fertility and avoid soil-borne diseases. Beans should be planted after ‘flowering’ crops like broccoli and cauliflower and should be followed by ‘leafy’ vegetables like lettuce, cabbage and silverbeet. Keep beans moist, but not wet while they are growing and water the roots of the plant, not the foliage or flowers. A dripper system and a layer of mulch can be ideal. Alternatively, dig a trench between rows and water it deeply once a week.
Beans are heavy croppers and harvest can begin when they are Beans can be easily grown from very small. The more beans you either seed or seedlings and pick, the more they will produce handle transplanting well. In and well-maintained plants can cool or mountain areas, make keep cropping for months.
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SPRING2012 Cairns Broome Townsville Whitsundays Mackay
Longreach
Alice Springs Carnarvon
Emerald
Blackall
W.A.
Hervey Bay
QLD
Gympie Roma Toowoomba Warwick
Coober Pedy
Geraldton Kalgoorlie
Rockhampton Gladstone
Moree
S.A. Port Augusta
Perth
N.S.W.
Orange Esperance
Albany
Adelaide
Wet & Dry Tropics
Plant basil, chilli, chives, dill, ginger, mint, oregano and parsley.
Grafton Port Macquarie Newcastle
Sydney
Wodonga
Vic.
Mt Gambier
Melbourne
Tas.
Hobart
Flowers
Herbs
Gold Coast
Canberra Victor Harbour
North Queensland
Sow ageratum, amaranthus, begonia, chrysanthemum, cockscomb, coleus, cosmos, dahlia, dianthus, everlasting daisy, gazania, geranium, gerbera, impatiens, kangaroo paw, marigold, nasturtium, petunia, portulaca, rudbeckia, salvia, snapdragon, sunflower, torenia, verbena and zinnia.
Brisbane
REGIONAL ZONES Tropical Subtropical Temperate Cold Mediterranean Arid
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Flowers
Sow ageratum, aster, balsam, carnation, chrysanthemum, cockscomb, coleus, cosmos, dahlia, dianthus, everlasting daisy, gazania, geranium, gerbera, impatiens, kangaroo paw, marigold, nasturtium, petunia, portulaca, rudbeckia, salvia, snapdragon, sunflower, torenia, verbena and zinnia.
Herbs
Herbs
Basil, chives, coriander, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, sage and thyme.
Fruit & vegetables
Sow beans, beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, chilli, Chinese cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, endive, lettuce, melons, okra, onion, parsnip, potato, pumpkin, radish, rhubarb, rosella, silver beet, spring onion, squash, sweet corn, sweet potato, tomato and zucchini.
More advice...
Plant fruit trees and vines. Divide clumping plants such as agapanthus, canna, liriope, iris and clivea. Protect seedlings from snails and slugs. Remove spent flowers to induce new blooms.
Cordyline ‘Tango’
Basil, chives, coriander, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, sage and thyme.
Buddleja ‘Buzz’ could be the easiest and most problem-free way to attract butterflies to your garden. About half the size of other buddlejas (1.2m x 1.2m), ‘Buzz’ can live up to 10 years. Plant in full sun or part shade in containers or any well-drained garden bed. Long flowering, its brightly-coloured blooms come in ‘Sky Blue, ‘Magenta’ or ‘Ivory’.
Sow basil, chives, coriander, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, sage and thyme.
Fruit and vegetables Petunias are the perfect choice for potted colour and garden beds throughout the warmer times of year. Available in just about any colour of the rainbow, give this cheery annual a fortnightly feed with Searles Flourish Soluble Plant Food for best results.
Melbourne Cold & Southern Tableland
Flowers
Sow alyssum, antirrhinum, aster, begonia, carnation, celosia, chrysanthemum, cineraria, cockscomb, coleus, cornflower, cosmos, dahlia, dianthus, foxglove, gazania, hollyhock, impatiens, lobelia, marigold, petunia, salvia and zinnia. Sow basil, chives, coriander, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, sage and thyme.
Fruit and vegetables Sow beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, cauliflower, celery, cucumber, eggplant, endive, leek, lettuce, onion, pak choi, pea, radicchio, silver beet, snow pea, spinach, spring onion, strawberry, sweet corn, zucchini and tomato.
More advice...
Spray mangoes with Searles Mancozeb fungicide after flowering to protect them from anthracnose — a common cause of fruit drop. Spray passionfruit with Searles Bug Beater, a natural pyrethrum spray to control sucking and chewing pests.
Herbs
Herbs
Sow beans, beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, chicory, Chinese cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, lettuce, melons, mustard, onion, parsnip, potato, pumpkin, radish, rosella, silver beet, squash, sweet corn, sweet potato, tomato and watermelon.
Plant beetroot, capsicum, carrot, chilli, Chinese cabbage, choko, corn, cucumber, french beans, eggplant, leek, lettuce, onion, radish, rockmelon, silver beet, spinach, squash, sweet potato, pumpkin, tomato, watermelon and zucchini. Complete any digging or landscaping work before the weather becomes too hot. Divide cannas. Plant ornamental trees. Prune established plants for bushier growth — especially those which have a just finished flowering. Fertilise and mulch well.
South-east Qld & Northern NSW Subtropical areas
Sow alyssum, antirrhinum, aster, begonia, carnation, cornflower, cosmos, dahlia, daisies, dianthus, foxglove, gazania, impatiens, marigold, petunia, salvia and zinnia.
Sow amaranthus, aster, balsam, begonia, carnation, chrysanthemum, cockscomb, coleus, cosmos, dahlia, dianthus, everlasting daisy, gazania, gerbera, impatiens, marigold, nasturtium, petunia, phlox, Iceland poppy, portulaca, rudbeckia, salvia, snapdragon, sunflower, torenia, verbena and zinnia.
Fruit & vegetables
Fruit & vegetables
More advice...
Angelonia flower reliably through the hottest summer weather and are very tolerant of humidity. This dependable annual flowers in white, mauve, lavender and purple. Like a foxglove, they’re covered in masses of flower spikes from late spring until the onset of frost.
Armidale
Tamworth
Bunbury
Sunshine Coast
Flowers
Flowers
Darwin
Mt. Isa
Mediterranean Climates
Temperate areas
Regional Garden Diary
N.T.
Adelaide & Perth
Sydney
Sow broccoli, carrot, celery, cucumber, lettuce, silver beet, snow pea, spinach, strawberry, sweet corn, zucchini and tomato.
Dry inland
Arid or Outback areas Flowers
If planting flowers, use advanced pots to ensure a good flowering before it gets too hot (by November/December). Try petunia, vinca, cosmos, marigold, salvia, portulaca, nasturtium and zinnia.
Herbs
Protect plants from heat in late spring. Inland areas have a good climate for growing all types of herbs.
Fruit and vegetables
Plant beans, capsicum, onion, radish and sweet corn. Harvest by summer.
‘Pablo’ and ‘Pixie’ love their office environment.
More advice... Tropical foliage plants can bring year-round colour and a touch of the ‘tropical resort’ to any urban backyard. Easy to propagate from cuttings in the warmer times of year, Protect from frost in cool areas.
Apply mulch over all garden beds in preparation for warmer weather. If using a woody mulch, first dig in some Searles 5IN1 Plus or Blood & Bone to the soil. Repot indoor plants that have become root-bound.
Office Mates™ is a range of indoor plants which make plants in the home or office environment easy and fun. You can even become a Facebook friend with other Office Mates enthusiasts. Their designer gner self-watering pots will add style to any interior.
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Darwin
Tropical
N.T.
Subtropical
QLD
W.A.
Brisbane
S.A. N.S.W.
Perth Adelaide
Temperate Cool
Sydney
Mediterranean Arid
Vic. Melbourne
Tas.
Hobart
SPRING2012 Hints & Tips Hummingbird correction
Hummingbirds are native to the Americas and are not found in Australia.
In our autumn issue, we mistakenly implied that pentas and Costa Rican skullcap could attract hummingbirds to your garden. There are actually no hummingbirds in Australia, be they native or introduced. We do of course, have a huge range of native parrots, honeyeaters and sunbirds who will relish your flower garden smorgasbord.
Lavender is looking great, now. Perfect in Mediterranean-style, Tuscan or cottage gardens, lavender is both pretty and elegant and needs little care once established. Give it full sun, good drainage and allow plenty of space for air to flow around the plants, especially in hot or humid climates. To Tolerates frost, wind and coastal conditions. 14
New Zealand Christmas Bush (Metrosideros sp.) is an extremely tough shrub (about 5m tall), suited for hedging with red, fluffy flowers which appear from spring, summer and autumn but peak at around Christmas time. Tolerant of heat, cold and salt-laden winds and not fussy about soil, plant it in full sun for best effect.
Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens), also called ‘cherry pie’ is a small, evergreen shrub (1mH x 1.5mW). In spring and summer, it bears purple flowers with a strong, vanilla fragrance. Give it full sun, keep it moist and wellmulched for best results.
Nothing looks more fabulous this time of year than Leptospermum ‘Merinda’. This small shrub grows to about 1m high with an arching habit. Its flowers are around 15mm in diameter. Prefers moist soil, full sun or part shade and a temperate climate. Prune after flowering to promote dense growth and better flowering next year.
‘Candytuft’ (Iberis sempervirens) is an evergreen, herbacious perennial with beautiful, white flowers borne in profusion in late spring. Great as a groundcover over small areas or in pots or garden beds, plant it in full sun or part shade in a moist, rich, well-drained soil. Feed with Searles Robust every spring.
Bird netting over your vegie patch can stop naughty puppies from digging up seedlings and keep possums and birds from eating your produce.
Now is the time to grow vegetables in warmer parts of Australia. Lettuce, carrots and celery taste best when they are grown fast — that means plenty of food and water. Give them full sun.
‘Razzleberri’ (Loropetalum chinense) is a compact shrub (about 2m tall) with lush, copperburgundy foliage and unusual, fragrant, fringe-like flowers in spring. Give it a moist, welldrained soil in full sun or part shade and protection from frost.
Gaura ‘Lillipop Pink’
Pimela ‘White Jewel’ is one of the most prolific and long-flowering native plants for home gardens. Seasidefriendly and drought tolerant once established, plant it in full sun in a pot or garden bed. The nectar-rich flowers attract butterflies. Also try the pinkflowering ‘Pink Solitaire’.
For an easy-to-grow perennial which flowers in abundance through spring, summer and autumn, plant gauras. Plant in full sun in garden borders or in pots on patios, terraces and barbecue areas. Also great in hanging baskets, but make sure they don’t dry out in hot or dry weather. Easy-care once established,
The whole garden can now benefit from a feed with Searles 5IN1 Plus Organic Plant Food Pellets. Sprinkle it over your entire garden including lawns, potted plants and garden beds. Do this after or during wet weather.
Pandorea pandorana ‘Lemon Bells’ is a fast-growing, well-behaved native climber. In spring it becomes smothered in gorgeous yellow flowers which can persist into summer. Plant it in full sun or part shade in a reasonably well-drained soil. Great for covering fences, pergolas and latticework. Keep moist while establishing and protect from severe frost.
Sunsatia ‘Cherry On Ice’ flowers profusely in vivid, luminescent colours. The compact, upright and spreading bush is perfect for patio or courtyard pots or well-drained garden beds where they will put on a longlasting floral display. Hardy and easy to grow, give them full sun or part shade. Growing g 25cm high and 15cm wide,feed fortnightly with Searles Flourish.
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Callistemon ‘Hot Pink’
Arctic lace is a decorative indoor plant with creamywhite foliage. Give it a warm, well-lit position. In warmer climates it can be an ideal outdoor pot plant. Keep it moist but not wet.
Brachyscome daisies are a true native daisy and are great in pots or garden beds. Give the plants a light trim after each flush of flowers to promote more blooms and bushy growth. Look out for thrips from mid-spring, which appear as malformed flowers with mottled florets and can be controlled with Searles Rose Pro.
SPRING2012 Hints & Tips
...continued from page 14
In climates too warm to grow wisteria, grow purple wreath (Petrea volubilis) instead. This woody, evergreen climber bears longlasting, wisteria-like flowers from late winter to late summer. Best grown over a pergola, fence or trellis, it prefers full sun or part shade and a rich, well-drained soil. Prune hard after flowering.
The New South Wales Christmas Bush (Ceratopetalum gummiferum) is a lovely, small native tree or shrub (about 3-5m tall) which bears delicate white flowers in spring, followed by bright, red bracts by Christmas time. Great grown in pots or as a cut flower. Plant in sun or part shade in moist, well-drained soil and prune hard after flowering for compact growth. Try the new, compact variety ‘Albery’s Red’.
Bromeliads are the perfect low-maintenance pot plant, whether indoors or outdoors. Most species have low water needs and they can be fed with a diluted solution of Searles Fish & Kelp Plus on the rare occasion.
The spectacular flowers of bottlebrush (callistemon spp.) are irresistible to nectarfeeding birds and insects. This tough,woody native shrub is perfect for most landscape situations and can be grown where the soil is too heavy clay for other flowering natives. Prune after flowering for repeat flushes of flowers throughout the year.
Anigozanthos ‘Bush Pioneer’
Searles Liquid Seaweed is like an organic vitamin tonic for plants. Use it to increase natural defenses against extremes of temperature, pests and diseases. Apply it at least a month before the onset of severe cold for maximum resilience.
Pandorea ‘Funky Bells’
Aussie native, Pandorea jasminoides will climb beautifully (and not rampantly!) over a trellis or frame. Flowers appear from spring until autumn. Give it full sun.
Scaevola is a hardy native groundcover which can spread up to 3m in garden beds or cascade over embankments. Originally purple, flowers now come in white, mauve and electric blue. More erect, bush-like forms are also available. Give them full sun. Tolerates light frost.
New varieties of kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos) can grow up to 2m tall and are especially hardy. Plant in full sun, give them good drainage and feed with Searles Native Food.
Osteospermum ‘Yellow Blush’
®
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Daisies are the perfect thing for a splash of colour in pots or garden beds. Plant in full sun and give them a fortnightly feed with Searles Flourish for outstanding results.
For something a little different, plant ptilotus (ti-loh-tus), a free-flowering annual from Central Australia. Suited to dry, arid conditions, give it full sun and free-draining soil. Tolerates light frost.
Gazanias are hardy, low maintenance and now come in an amazing range of colours and flower forms. These quick-growing groundcovers flower throughout the year and are perfect for gardens, pots, landscape and coastal planting.
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For the control of rootss in sewer pipes in and around your home.
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Hydrangea flowers are pink in this strongly alkaline soil.
White hydrangeas don’t change colour.
Protect herbs, vegetables, trees and shrubs from possums, kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, hares, bandicoots, deer, foxes and other wildlife.
, r e g n a r t s o Be n
Hydrangea ‘Machiko’
Hydrangea ‘Nobuko’
rangea ‘Mariko’ Hydra Hyd H
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Protects homes, gardens, patios, shop fronts and paved areas from both dogs and cats or rats and mice.
Protect one plant or a whole area — perimeter &/or band sprays. Hydrangea ‘Sumiko’
O i i ti from Originating f Japan J or the th Americas, A i the hydrangea is a beautiful and hardy shrub and a tried-and-true favourite in Australian gardens. Its lush appearance and long-lasting, showy blooms can bring a touch of the tropics to even the coldest of climates and its ability to flower in damp, shady areas makes it one of our most sought-after garden plants. New wave hydrangeas offer an exciting new range of flower forms but are also hardier, more compact or flower more profusely than their parents. The soil you have in your garden is of particular significance because with most varieties of hydrangea, the soil pH will dictate flower colour. In acidic soils around pH 4.5–5.0, the flowers will be bright blue. In soils above pH 7, the flowers will turn mauve, pink or quite a strong, magentared. Adding Searles Garden Lime to the soil can make the flowers pinker and adding Searles Hydrangea Blue will turn the flowers blue. (Hydrangeas actually prefer a slightly acidic soil, so be mindful not to overuse lime on your soil.) White flowering hydrangeas will stay white, whatever the soil pH. If you want to change the flower colour, it’s important to treat the soil before the flower buds form. For best results, a bluing tonic should be applied once a month in August, September and October and again in March and April. A cup of lime sprinkled around the root zone in spring will turn hydrangeas pink or red. Apply them to your hydrangeas every year and watch their flowers turn stronger and stronger shades of blue or pink with every flowering season. Most hydrangeas will grow best in dappled or part shade. (They will let you
they are getting kknow if th tti too t much h sun — with browning leaves.) The southern side of the house is often the best place to plant hydrangeas. There are new varieties that can tolerate full sun but they will need more water in these conditions. Hydrangeas growing in the ground should be given a bucket of water once a week through the spring and summer. Potted hydrangeas should be watered every day from the end of spring and through summer. Place a saucer of water under the pot or even place the pot inside a bucket which is temporarily allowed to become partially filled with water to help keep the plant moist. Hydrangeas will quickly let you know when they need water as their leaves will wilt. However, they recover quickly when given water. Hydrangeas will benefit from a dose of Searles Fish & Kelp Plus liquid plant food every two weeks throughout the growing season. Alternatively, apply Searles Azalea, Camellia & Gardenia Food in early spring. Hydrangeas have shallow, fibrous roots, so maintain a layer of Searles Mulch Plus around them. Hydrangeas become available in garden centres in late spring when they start to flower. This is when you can choose from a range of varieties and all the latest cultivars. They also strike very easily from soft tip or hardwood cuttings, so if you see a nice one growing in your neighbour’s garden, why not ask for a cutting? Place the cutting in a pot of Searles Seed
Raising Specialty Mix, water it and keep it enclosed in a sealed plastic bag until roots develop. Hydrangeas are resilient in almost any climate including windy, coastal conditions and regions with quite severe frosts. The deciduous varieties benefit from a pruning after they finish flowering. Prune off all the green, current season’s growth down to two plump eyes
or leaf buds, but don’t prune too severely or it can limit the following season’s flowering. Don’t injure any new, green shoots and leave the stems that have yet to flower as they will provide next years’ blooms. Hydrangeas make excellent cut flowers and can last more than two weeks in a vase of water. They also make beautiful dried flowers.
Beautiful
brunfelsia A truly beautiful beautif ful and harmonious garden should stimulate all of our senses...
Easy to use — spray on. Effective when dry. Safe, Proven and Effective. Available in 100g, 1Kg & 4Kg Sizes. is unique. Reject products said to be "just as good", nothing is at all "like it". For further information send 2x60c stamps to:
GG20-260/02
Hydrangea
Repels — without harming animals or humans. Not considered a poison — no withholding period.
by Chelsea Van Rijn
by Alana Searle
Protect vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, seedlings and buildings from cockatoos, crows, ducks, pigeons, rosellas, starlings, swallows, other birds & bats.
D-TER, Dept. A, PO Box 3, Oyster Bay, NSW 2225. Enquiries: Phone: (02) 9589 0703. Fax: (02) 9589 0147
I love the varied and delicious smells of the garden; sweetly scented flowers, strong, spicy foliage — even stinky fertiliser has its place! New-release plants will wow us with ‘structural’ or ‘colourful’ impact, but we usually need to look to the ‘old favourites’ for qualities like fragrance. Brunfelsia (Brunfelsia latifolia) is one such ‘vintage’ plant. You may know it by its common name: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. This evergreen shrub grows slowly to around 2-4m tall and 2m wide. The foliage is dense and a smoky green colour. The new leaves can go purplish in cool weather. The true beauty of brunfelsia is in its flowers. Sweetly perfumed, they appear from September to late November. When they first open they are a violet colour, fading to lavender blue and then white, with the three colours present on the bush at the same time. How extraordinary that a plant can be covered in three different coloured flowers at once! Brunfelsia enjoys full sun or partial shade. It enjoys a trim but does not need to be trimmed to look thick and lush. A good complete organic
fertiliser like Searles 5IN1 Plus pellets at least twice a year in August and December will keep it looking beautiful for many years. To keep it flowering well, liquid fertilise with Searles Flourish fortnightly from late August until it finishes flowering in around December. The great thing about this plant is it doesn’t seem to mind if it’s a little dry or a little wet; it likes the summer heat and can handle the winter chills. It’s not keen on heavy frosts, though. These plants are perfect for growing in the garden or in a pot. If planting in a pot, use Searles Peat 80 Plus potting mix and mulch with Searles Mulch Plus. In recent years, a dwarf brunfelsia has been released that only grows to around a metre. It is perfect for borders or small gardens. Be aware that this plant can be slower to flower. The only downside to brunfelsia is that they are highly toxic to animals and humans if eaten, so if you have an animal, especially a dog that likes to eat plants, take precautions or grow something else. Indulge all of your senses by planting a brunfelsia this weekend!
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Echo ‘Wilson’s Yellow’
on Yellow’
Dazzling
Watering Daylilies do not require copious amounts of water and will survive long, dry periods without it; nonetheless they do branch and bloom much better if well-watered. A good soaking once a week is fine and helps prevent spider mite infestation.
Fertilising
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Echo ‘Marcia Faye’
Echo ‘Grape Ripple’
Apply a slow release fertiliser such as Searles Recharge in July or August. Through spring and summer the plants will benefit from applications of a quick acting fertiliser such as Searles Flourish together
SUPERWAY
disease known to affect daylilies; signs are the whole plant turning yellow and rotting. It has to be dug up, the foliage cut back, the affected crown area removed and the roots and crown soaked in a fungicide for an hour, then replanted in a different location. This condition is more common in damp, humid weather.
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Superway Dicamba-M is a selective herbicide for the control of bindii, thistle, cudweed, clover and dandelion in most lawns except buffalo grass. Active ingredients: 80G/L Dicamba 340G/L MCPA
Superway White Ant Termite Bait: A D.I.Y. ‘Back to the nest’ termite treatment primarily for use in Termite baiting stations.
Available in 500g, 1kg & 2kg packs.
Highly concentrated. Available in 1litre pack.
Delta-M: is a non staining residual insecticide, for the control of spiders, cockroaches, fleas, ants, silverfish, flies and mosquitoes. Available in 250ml, 500ml and 1 litre packs.
NEW RELEASE
TERMITE CONTROL
Daylilies do best in well-prepared soil When daylilies are massed in the landscape narrow. Some are ruffled around the edge which has been dug over and enriched with they are a truly splendid sight, yet they also and generally have shorter stems than the Searles 5IN1 Plus and plenty of compost. Choose a position in full sun or semi-shade older varieties. Colours are clearer and look good as individual specimens in the more distinct and the range is vast. These (they flower best with at least 6 hours of garden or in a pot. This means they suit sun a day). Dig a hole slightly larger than plants usually last a lifetime and can be gardens of all sizes and shapes, from the the root mass and mound some soil in the patio to the acreage lot; as well as all types regularly divided (about once every three centre of the hole. Fill so that the crown of gardeners, from the truly dedicated to the years) to make more plants. of the plant is level with the surface, tamp lazy weekender. Despite their cool climate origins, firmly, water and mulch. Potted daylilies daylilies can be grown almost anywhere Today’s varieties flower for long periods; from a nursery should be watered every 2 in Queensland though they do prefer 6 mostly from October through January days for a fortnight to prevent the potting weeks of winter chill down to about 10–12 mix from drying out. Bare-rooted plants (depending on variety) and some again in degrees Celsius. They seem to do well in April and May. Even when not in flower, should be planted immediately or placed in the dry tropics and Mackay, and on the the foliage makes an attractive feature. a shady spot with their roots covered with tablelands behind Cairns. They can handle damp soil or sand until you are ready to Modern hybrids are selected for being frost as well as extremes of dry heat and well branched with a high bud count, plant them. For mass planting, space plants cold. They are not true lilies at all, nor larger flowers and petals which are not too about 30cm apart, for garden planting about 1m apart; any closer and they will need thinning out after 3 years.
Serious problems with pests and diseases are rare, particularly on well-grown plants.
Mites (which cause the leaves to fade, turn tan and then brown) can be brushed off or blasted away by a jet of water. Aphids (which cause pimples on the buds, irregular colour in new growth and other problems) can be controlled with Searles Bug Beater. If you get other insect problems, contact your garden centre or a daylily specialist nursery. Crown Rot is the only
Weedkiller: provides effective control of most broadleaf weeds and grasses. 1 litre of concentrate’ Makes up to 100 Litres of weedkiller. Available in 250ml to 20 litres and 1 litre 'ready-to-use' spraypack.
Superway Inside-Outside Cockroach, Spider, Flea & Ant Residual Insecticide: Concentrate for indoors and outdoors. Controls cockroaches, fleas, flies, silverfish, spiders and ants. For porous & nonporous surfaces. Odorless & stain-free. Available in 250ml, 500ml, 1litre & 2.5litre bottles.
TERMITE CONTROL
How to plant
Pest & disease control
HERBICIDE
bulbs, but herbaceous perennials which form clumps that can be divided every three years in autumn.
HERBICIDE
Few plants are more beautiful or rewarding to grow w than daylilies (Hemerocallis). Their graceful form, long flowering habit and their tolerance of neglect are just a few more of their good points.
with regular applications of Searles Liquid Potash. Searles Fish & Kelp Plus and Searles 5IN1 Plus are excellent organic fertilisers for daylilies and can be applied throughout the warm season.
PEST CONTROL
Echo ‘Red Rum’
HOUSEHOLD PESTS
daylilies
Echo ‘Bright Copper’
Echo ‘Aztec Gold’
INSECTICIDE
by Frida Forsberg
Echo ‘Lem
Superway Bifenthrin Termite & Pest Controller: Termite/Insecticide for use as a termite barrier spray around poles etc. as well as control of ants, spiders, etc. Available in 1Litre Chamber Pack as well as larger pack sizes.
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www.superway.com.au .au
Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Trade enquiries welcome.
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Delicious spring recipe...
Fresh tomato bruschetta
Nothing is better than this simple, fresh dish enjoyed with friends on a Sunday afternoon. (Makes enough for 4 servings)
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh cherry tomatoes 4 x sprigs fresh chives 2 bocconcini 4 x slices (approx 1.5cm thick) crusty bread (why not make your own?) olive oil balsamic vinegar
Top watering tip:
tomatoes
Planting advice
Ensure seedlings are well anchored by planting them slightly deeper than the surrounding soil — tomato plants can become top-heavy and blow over.
Fertilising
Tomatoes are not heavy feeders. In fact, high nitrogen fertilisers can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit yield and flavour. For tasty, longlasting fruit and resistance to pests and disease, apply Searles Fish & Kelp Plus (for the organic alternative) or Searles Flourish Tomato & Vegetable fortnightly.
A thick layer of mulch can discourage mould on low-growing fruit by preventing it coming in contact with the soil. Mulching around the roots will keep the roots cool and moist, reducing the plants’ water needs as well as inhibiting weeds. Mulching can also help prevent diseases caused by soil dryout and inconsistent moisture levels.
22
them to ripen on a window sill away from direct sunlight.
Because tomato foliage gives ripening fruit shelter from the sun, it’s advisable not to prune them. However, removing stems from the inside of the plant can help improve air circulation and reduce fungal problems.
Watering tip
Water tomato plants on the roots — not the foliage.
This will reduce the risk of fungal infections and will also limit water loss through evaporation.
Pests & diseases
Now is the time to safeguard against fruit fly which can be a serious problem in warmer regions. Attach Searles Fruit Fly Traps above tomato plants to effectively control these nasty pests.
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Phone: ...................................... Fax: ...................................... Initially, this part of the fruit becomes off-white to brown in colour and takes on a ‘sunken in’ appearance. As the fruit matures, these symptoms become more pronounced and the rot darkens in colour.
Staking tomato plants will inhibit pests and diseases by keeping heavy trusses of fruit off the ground. Larger bushes may need several stakes — train the branches onto the stakes as they grow. Tomatoes grown in greenhouses or sheltered positions where there is little wind may benefit from being given a gentle shake to help spread their pollen.
Pruning
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Staking
Pollination tip
For extra flavour, add fresh basil to the mix!
Mulching
Tomatoes are one of the easiest food crops to grow in home gardens and they’re delicious in summer salads and other Ripening for flavour Tomatoes will be sweetest if they ripen in cooler tasty dishes. With so many varieties available, how can you weather. During hot weather, it is best to harvest resist planting a few of your own this spring? tomatoes when they start to blush and allow Tomatoes need a sunny site and good drainage. They will grow in just about any soil which has been well dug and enriched with Searles Kickalong Vegetable & Herb Plant Food a couple of weeks before planting. For potted tomatoes, plant in Searles Herb & Vegetable Specialty Mix.
1. Pip the cherry tomatoes (cut in half and scoop out the seeds with a teaspoon). Cut flesh into small cubes. 2. Dice chives into small flakes. 3. Slice bocconcini into slices. 4. OPTIONAL: Toast bread under grill for 2–5 minutes at 180˚C (Don’t leave it to dry out; it still needs to be soft in middle). 5. Gently mix chives and tomato together. 6. Place sliced bocconcini on toast, then top with tomato and chives. Finish with a sprinkle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste.
A sudden bout of wet weather after a dry period can cause ripening tomatoes to split. This can also be caused by irregular watering. Keep moisture levels consistent by watering tomatoes regularly and keeping them well mulched.
Tasty Planting
Method:
Blossom-end rot A common tomato problem is blossom-end rot. This appears at the ‘blossom end’ of the fruit — the opposite end to the stem.
Blossom end rot is caused by insufficient calcium and the most common cause is irregular or insufficient water during the critical growing period of the young fruit. Even when sufficient calcium is present in the soil, water shortages can create difficulty absorbing and delivering calcium to the fruit.
1. Boost the soil with calcium by adding lime, dolomite, gypsum or composted animal manures before planting. 2. Water regularly. Most tomato crops continue to flower and bear fruit for prolonged periods of time, so ensure the roots are consistently moist. 3. Avoid high nitrogen fertilisers. Nitrogen fertilisers will allocate calcium to the leaves instead of the fruit.
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MAKE YOUR GARDEN
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