Our Gardens The Quarterly Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia ABN 74 058 867 744
Issue 58 ISSN 1832-4738
Spring Spring 2013
Issue 58 | Spring 2013
Contents In Touch
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3 3 22 25 28
A word from the President Contact details for GCA and Our Gardens Comment Zone and Club News Diary Dates and Noticeboard
Gardens – Town and Country 6
4 Wayval Views, Lockyer Valley, Queensland 8 The challenge of a very small garden, Sydney, NSW 10 An easy-to-manage Nambour garden, Queensland
Plants and Gardening 8
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6 12 13 14 15 16
The Pacific Coast iris – a spring-time treasure Succulent plants deserve a better press Gardening as therapy Season’s tips for spring Peonies to pine for Three colourful native plants
Travel 18 Amongst the flora of Bhutan in the Himalayas 20 Ninfa in Italy – a really romantic garden 15
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And also 17 23 24 30
A bird in a Bird’s Nest Fern The last photos of the 2013 Photo Competition Events – what’s on, where and when Gleanings
Our Gardens The Quarterly Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia ABN 74 058 867 744
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OUR GARDENS
Issue 58 ISSN 1832-4738
Spring Spring 2013
Front cover: Deutzia gracilis ‘Nikko’ photographed in the garden of Gordon GC member Sue Ballinger by her husband Bob.
The opinions and descriptions expressed by authors, contributors or advertisers in this journal do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Committee of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc. The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc does not accept responsibility for any advice, guidance or treatment recommended by any author, contributor or advertiser in this journal.
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
A Word from the President At a recent invitation from a garden club to speak on the Remembrance Driveway – the highway connecting Sydney and Canberra – I was reminded once again of the legacy of the founding President of The Garden Clubs of Australia. Mrs. Margaret Davis MBE, OAM was an outstanding women of her time. Among her many accomplishments the concept she inspired of a national memorial highway as a living memorial to commemorate the Australians who served in World War ll and Korea. She became impressed by the work of a New Jersey garden club group which supervised the planting of thousands of trees along a highway in 1944 to honour that state’s armed forces personnel. She was also aware of earlier Avenues of Honour dedicated to World War l soldiers first established in Ballarat and then other towns in Victoria. Participants to the GCA Convention and AGM in September can visit the Ballarat avenue on Burrumbeet Road where there is a tree for every one of the more than 3000 men who served – regardless of rank. A subcommittee of GCA is currently collecting material to document Margaret Davis’ life with GCA. There have been several other outstanding women associated with GCA; Ann Williams
Our Gardens Team
Clark is a good example. Ann is remembered for her energetic work serving as President of the GCA on two occasions alternating with other responsible positions while being known for her knowledge of horticulture, love of music and love of people, shown by her great cooking and hospitality. Not bad for a nurse from Philadelphia, USA, who was a prisoner of war in the Philippines during WW ll. GCA appropriately offers the Ann Williams Clark Medallion for clubs to honour an exceptional member for their long and outstanding service.
The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc ‘Friendship through Gardens’ Founder President Mrs Margaret Davis MBE • President Mr Ken Bradley • Honorary Secretary Mr John Graham PO Box 185 Galston NSW 2159 Ph: 02 9653 1864 Email: galstongardens@gmail.com
This year GCA presented a token donation [representing some $6 from each affiliate] to the Remembrance Driveway Committee to encourage the financing of the Centenary of ANZAC Commemoration Cutler VC Memorial Interchange project. The donation was made at a tree planting by a group of local garden clubs on the sites of early groves on the Remembrance Driveway along the old Hume Highway at Berrima some 160 km from Canberra.
• Honorary Treasurer Mr John Sowden PO Box 7073 Leura NSW 2780 Ph: 02 4782 4344 Email: jandesowden5@bigpond.com
It is all worth remembering.
• Membership Secretary Mrs Rowena Margetts PO Box 301 Petrie QLD 4502 Ph: 07 3285 6862 Email: rowenamargetts@bigpond.com
Ken Bradley
Deadline next issue 01/09/13
Editor Patricia Prior Articles
28 Bilwara Ave, Bilgola Plateau NSW 2107 Ph: 02 9973 1247 email: priors@iinet.net.au
Assistant Editor Carolyn Dawes Club news, diary dates
9 Lachlan Street, Macquarie ACT 2614 Ph: 02 6251 5779 email: carolyn.dawes@bigpond.com
Advertising Barry Redshaw
37 View Street, Lawson NSW 2783 Ph: 02 4759 2168 email: advertising@gardenclubs.org
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Caroline Stanton and Sandra Elliott, Horticultural Consultant
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Pro Artwork 23 Irene Crescent, Soldiers Point NSW 2317 Ph: 02 4984 7941 email: dan@proart.net.au
Subscriptions Enquiries, Ph: 02 6251 5779 or 02 4782 4344, E:subscriptions@gardenclubs.org.au An annual subscription to Our Gardens posted to your door costs just $18.00 for four issues including postage. Download a subscription form www.gardenclubs.org.au or simply send your name, postal and email address with a cheque payable The Garden Clubs of Australia to: Subscriptions Officer, John Sowden, PO Box 7073, LEURA, NSW 2780 Photographs and material submitted should have a stamped, self-addressed envelope if return required. Manuscripts to be typed (or emailed). No article or part thereof may be reprinted or reproduced by any means without the express approval of the publisher, The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
• Director of Zones Mrs Glenys Bruun 92 Petrie Creek Road Nambour QLD 4560 Ph: 07 5441 2692 Email: gbruun2@bigpond.com
• Sales Co-ordinator Mrs Jeanette Chown 11 Olga Close Bossley Park NSW 2176 Ph/Fax: 02 9609 4865 Email: phillchown@bigpond.com • Webmaster Mr Dennis Parker Email: webmaster@gardenclubs.org.au www.gardenclubs.org.au Aims and Objectives ~ To encourage friendship through gardening ~ To further a knowledge of all aspects of gardening and floral art ~ To aid in the protection and conservation of natural resources ~ To cooperate with kindred organisations having similar aims
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Gardens – Town and Country
Wayval Views Lockyer Valley, Queensland
Text Val Lawson, photos Glenys Bruun
Nestled in an elevated position above the Blenheim State School in the heart of the Lockyer Valley, west of Brisbane, is our property Wayval Views. Wayne and I purchased it in 1997 but Mother Nature made things hard during the next few years and our new dam didn’t fill until the devastating floods of January 2010. We now have ample water for our large garden. Many thoroughly enjoyable retirement hours have been put into creating our garden on a hill with a 360 degree panoramic view. With no formal plan we put in border stone retaining walls, paved areas, pathways of pebble stone, a gazebo and a driveway with paved stairway leading down to a feature statue. Arches were built with jasmine draped over, trees planted and agapanthus, Duranta repins ‘Sheena’s Gold’, Golden Penda, Indian Hawthorn, Japanese Box, hibiscus, acalypha, colourful foliage plants, conifers, dwarf crepe myrtle, browallia, leptospermum, maybush, daylilies, hippeastrums, grevilleas, yellow 4
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allamanda and the fragrant native frangipanni tree (all creating colour and fragrance) and a forever-changing landscape. The Japanese box and D.‘Sheena’s Gold’ shrubs have been trimmed into eye-catching rounds. To retain the views the hedges are kept to a maximum of two metres. All this would not have been possible without Wayne’s workmanship and design. A double hedge of murraya and lilly pilly surrounds the driveway. Agaves, palms, white cedar and a poinciana tree are in the centre of the driveway. With the maturing trees as a canopy we are beginning to plant bromeliads, perennials and ground cover as an understorey. A garden seat near two small ponds is close to an arbour where we relax at the day’s end. A gully has
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To retain the views the hedges are kept to a maximum of two metres. a waterfall, bridge and wishing well where dietes, lomandra, variegated jade, grasses, cycads and succulents grow on the banks. We were able to reuse cobble stones from a neighbouring property for a pathway. Our extensive vegetable patch and orchard has pineapples, grapevines, passionfruit, potatoes, broccoli, beetroot, strawberries (covered so the birds won’t pinch them), bananas and paw paw, to name a few. Slabs from the original barn have been used to create two slab huts used for the storage of garden tools and a shade house for orchids, with two walls made of stone to reduce the severity of westerly winds. This area is a reminder of bygone years.
Our efforts to create our garden have been rewarded over the last few years as we have been awarded Grand Champion in the Lockyer Regional Council Competition which is held in conjunction with Laidley’s Spring Festival (run by the Laidley Garden Club) in September each year and several prizes in the Country Section of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. Wayne and Val both belong to the Laidley Garden Club and find listening to the guest speakers a great help in learning more about gardening. Their garden was open to the public for the first time in March 2013.
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Plants and Gardening Here are charismatic spring-flowering treasures – Pacific Coast Iris hybrids resulting from crosses between naturally occurring Iris species growing on the mid-West coast of the USA. Their preferred habitats include rock ledges or the shelter of woodland pines. As you can see from the spectacular images taken by John Taylor, Pacific Coast Iris hybrid blooms are mesmerising. They resemble butterflies, maybe ruffled orchids or even pieces of stained glass. John, an experienced and talented hybridiser, combines artistic and horticultural skill to breed Pacific Coast Iris hybrids of the most amazing colour blends with ruffled, rounded and balanced form. Many have whiskery stripes or contrasting colour splashes. Think caramel/blue, pink/grey, purple/blue and … the world is his oyster!
Pacific Coast Iris gorgeous garden gems
Text Peta Trahar, photos John Taylor
Pacific Coast Iris are addictive – be warned. Many times I’ve witnessed visitors to the annual Iris Show riveted to the spot, eyes and cameras aimed at the beguiling display these little beardless iris make. Of course, first and foremost they are garden gems and, thank goodness, thrive in my Bilpin garden. They will self-seed (good!) but you can trim off unwanted seed heads. I respect their reputation as prima donnas with specific requirements: 1. Good drainage. 2. Protection from hot afternoon sun. 3. Non-disturbance. If absolutely necessary divide, transplant and tidy in late autumn with great care 4. Planting in moderately acid soil, pH 5.5 to 6.5 and light feeding with compost, aged cow manure or camellia fertiliser in early spring 5. No over-watering in summer when growth slows Spring, flowering time, is when to savour Pacific Coast Iris hybrids. Growing as low clumps their elegant arching leaves suit rockery border edges or well drained containers. If you can bear to pick a flower or two to enjoy indoors, they last well. Come along to the Iris Show at the Schools of Arts, Wentworth Falls on Saturday 26 October 2013 to see and buy a wide variety of iris that are often hard to find in nurseries.
These iris are numbered but unnamed and form the breeding stock for the hybrids produced by John Taylor and Graeme Grosvenor at Eidolia Park outside Millthorpe, NSW
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Peta Trahar MAIH MAILDM is the secretary of the Iris Society NSW which will hold an Iris Show and Convention 26 -30 October (details www.irissocietynsw.org.au). Peta is also Convenor of the 9th Collectors’ Plant Fair to be held 12-13 April next year (details www.collectorsplantfair.com)
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Berry Gardens Festival 2013
Your invitation to
17 – 20 October 2013
GARDENS WEEKEND 26/27 October 2013
Come and enjoy our beautiful gardens Entry $5.00 each garden or visit all 8 for $20.00 Under 18 free. Enquiries 4464 1191 or 4464 2563 Or visit our website www.berrygardens.org.au
Explore ten beautiful spring gardens in and around Bathurst, from formal town gardens to historic and large country gardens. • An ideal coach trip for garden clubs or other garden enthusiasts, over one or two days, but book your accommodation early. • We can assist with a group itinerary and a tour guide if required. • Lots of plants for sale at our plant stall.
Tickets $15 on sale at Bathurst Information Centre and all gardens For further information contact Anne Llewellyn 02 6331 4117 annesgarden@bigpond.com
SPRING
OPEN WEEKENDS Private and water garden Oberon, NSW
19–20, 26–27 Oct 2–3 NOv 2013 Gates open 9am–4.30pm Adults $25 Children 7–16yrs $10 Children under 6 free
WWW.mayfIElDGaRDEN.cOm.au
FINAL ad.indd 1
29/05/13 4:52 PM
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Gardens – Town and Country
The well-covered rear wall
Bougainvillea and potted petunias
Vibrant dipladenia The short pathway
One of Victorian lead urns
Notes on a small garden Text Christine Winterbotham, photos Patricia Prior
Ever since I was a small girl I have loved plants and gardens. I was fortunate to have a great aunt who was a knowledgeable gardener and shared her wisdom with me as I grew.
thicket, and a lemon tree, which died and was recently removed. I have divided the garden plot with a paved path as a way to the back of the new plantings and to give the illusion of a destination.
With my husband I have made four gardens during our married life. The first three were of reasonable size but this last one measures just 4 m x 4 m. It is at the end of a paved terrace, (just large enough for an outdoor table and chairs) off the living room of our ground-floor apartment. A metal fence backed by a high hedge on the street side gives privacy but allows a distant view of pine trees which provide the garden with a borrowed perspective.
All gardens, whatever the size, evolve, and mine is no exception. I kept one of the gardenias to grow as a standard and set about finding plants which would withstand the heat from the cream-painted walls, the westerly sun in summer and lack of sun in winter.
The original landscaping was of gardenias, grown into a 8
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Starting from the rear of the plot the fence is now covered with star jasmine, variegated pandorea with tall abutilon at each corner, yellow and pink. These do exceptionally well and are enjoyed by the passers by. A row of eriostomen, hypericum and rhaphiolepis provide
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spring colour. A blueberry ash replaces the lemon tree. It may prove to be a too tall but I wanted a less dense tree to reduce shade. It flowers very prettily. I grow blue salvia as a loose hedge on one wall together with other perennial plants. Tomatoes and other vegetables grow on the opposite wall where they enjoy the hot sun. The foreground is planted with ground covers, including pink and white lamium, Convolvulous mauritanicus, small daisies and annuals in season.
All gardens, whatever the size, evolve, and mine is no exception. No terrace is complete without pots, of which there are quite a few. I do try to restrict the numbers! Bougainvillea grows well against the wall with petunias and seasonal annuals in the smaller pots. A red dipladenia thrives in the heat. I also have some low pots in the beds, which are currently filled with begonias for colour. The Victorian lead urns have featured in all of our gardens. I was a plant collector but now I rely on uncomplaining plants that stand up to the conditions and the onslaught of the local possums. I find that plants with coloured leaves give good value and these include variegated plants such as coleus, plectranthus and lysimachia. The habit of taking cuttings dies hard as I have little space for raising them but there are always friends to give them a home so I am unlikely to cease this part of my garden life. I have found that nurturing a small garden has the same joys and frustrations as a larger one but brings the same rewards. Christine was a long-time member of Gordon Garden Club in Sydney until her move to the Northern Beaches and remains a member of a small informal gardening group.
PERENNIALS Rare plants, Trilliums, Paris, Arisaemas, Saxifragas, Primulas, Podophyllums, Epimediums & many more. www.lynnsrareplants.com.au or for list send large SAE to PO Box 7040, Leura, NSW 2780.
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Gardens – Town & Country
Easy-care garden
A Nambour Garden
colourful, copious and easy to manage Text and photos Penny Hegarty
I started my garden in Nambour, Queensland roughly 16 years ago and designed the garden to be colourful and easy to manage when I am away taking groups of like-minded people overseas. Having done the palms in a previous garden in the dry tropics of Bowen I did not want a repeat. However, to give some structure to the garden, I have three Foxtail Palms and a couple of groups of Alexandra and Bangalow Palms and two Triangle Palms. Three Carpentaria Palms were removed recently as the copious amount of seeds was a problem.
The garden is colourful all year round with plantings of crotons, cordylines, and coleus, with seasonal flowering shrubs of camellias and azaleas, magnolias and roses. Where there is a space it is filled with bromeliads, hippeastrums and other bulbs including daffodils, lycoris and jonquils. Staghorn Ferns, Elkhorn Ferns and orchids grow on the palms.
Gardenias
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Tibouchinas
Growers and hybridisers of quality Australian-bred Louisiana Iris Manager, Heather Pryor, is happy to share her passion for Louisiana Irises, Daylilies and cottage garden plants by speaking at garden clubs. Please visit our ‘paperless’ catalogue by inspecting our website. Our complete range of Louisiana and other beardless irises are available online. Our website includes cultural information and hundreds of colour photographs. Order Forms are freely available via email, on request. The front garden
The soil here is clay, which over the years has had large amounts of compost and mulch added. I find most things grow here including some of the harder to grow plants. As the block was quite steep it was terraced into three levels. On top of the large retaining wall there is an informal hedge of Gardenia augusta ‘Florida’ underplanted with red and green bromeliads requiring very little attention. Cliveas in large pots do very well along the garage wall where they are protected by the eaves and don’t get any rain. There is a small shade house full of Tassel Ferns, Thai aglaonemas and orchids, with a few other bits and pieces. Dotted around are heliconias and torch gingers which are used for cut flowers. Last year I acquired some Frizzle chickens which lay good-sized eggs and give me fertilizer as well as helping to keep pests down. In the vegie garden I grow celery, broccoli, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, radish, cucumbers and cabbage. I also have a large area planted up behind and next to the garden with paths meandering through. Now mature, this area is home to numerous birds, echidnas, bandicoots and possums. I enjoy anything to do with horticulture and recommend it to everyone. Penny has been involved in gardening and horticulture in Victoria and Queensland, having owned a nursery and gaining an Advanced Diploma along the way. She has started community gardens and also the Sunshine Coast GC. and opens her garden to raise funds for the community gardens. Penny received the GCA President’s award in 2011
IRIS HAVEN
P.O. Box 6070 Baulkham Hills Business Centre NSW 2154 Tel (02) 8883 5953 Fax (02) 8883 5954 Email:irishaven@pip.com.au Website: www.irishaven.com.au
St Mary’s Open Garden Penola Participating in
Open Gardens Australia
‘Roses in Stone’ Stroll the gardens of St Mary’s Vineyard, taking in the roses, drystone walls, garden art and limestone sculpture. Food, drink and produce available from the Limestone Coast Farmers and Makers Market.
Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th of November 2013. 10 am to 4:30 pm Admission: $8.00 per Adult, Children Free. Bookings for bus tours would be appreciated.
For further information please contact the winery St Mary’s Vineyard V&A Lane Penola. SA, 5277 Phone: 08 87366070 Fax: 08 87366045 stmaryswines@bigpond.com www.stmaryswines.com
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Plants & Gardening
Cacti and Succulents Text Maureen Lucas photos by Paul Lucas
‘Oh’, those awful cactus things – I would never grow them because they are so prickly’. How often have you heard people say these words? Strangely enough, these very same people will rave about the roses in their gardens and think that growing bougainvilleas makes them the bee’s knees of gardeners. I hope I can open your eyes to the wonders and beauty of succulent plants. A succulent plant is not a plant unto itself but the word describes a characteristic of a plant. Put simply, the definition is as follows: ‘A succulent plant is one that stores water in its roots, stems, trunk or leaves so that it can draw on this in times of stress or drought’. Of course, all plants store water for a period of time but, for the most part, this is kept in their tissues only briefly, whereas with the succulent ones, the storage can be for weeks or even months. Because ‘succulence’ is a feature of the plant, rather than the plant itself, there are succulent representatives in many of the types of plants that we grow in our home gardens – trees, shrubs, climbers, bulbs – think bottle trees, pereskia (climbing cactus), pregnant onion. Nature designed plants to be as they are so that they do not necessarily fall into the categories that we define for them. So, on a scale of one to ten – one being non-succulent and ten being succulent – there will be plants at each end of the range and many of them will lie somewhere in the middle. Experts do not always agree on the gradings, particularly when plants come in around the
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five mark – think some of the bromeliads, pelargoniums, hoyas and euphorbias.
Bottle trees Brachychiton rupestris at the entrance to the Geelong Botanical Gardens.
Succulent plants are indigenous to every continent on earth except for Antarctica. Cacti are just one of the many types of succulent plant but are indigenous only to the Americas. Many people believe that all prickly succulent plants must be cacti. That is not so. Cacti differ from other succulent plants in that they have areoles from which the spines come. I like to be rude and say that cacti have ‘boobs’ (and hairy ones at that) and this helps me to remember - vital knowledge if you wish to show them. When I judge gardens, some of the things that I look for are ‘leaf, shape, colour and texture’ because these can be present even when flowers are not. Succulent plants will give you this in every variation that your mind can conceive. Some of the most interesting things about these plant types are the never-ending shapes of their green parts and the exquisite shape, size and colours of their absolutely gorgeous flowers. Their perfume can either knock your socks off or make you feel sick, depending upon what pollinators they are trying to attract. Of course, there can also be great beauty in the colour of their spines and many of them have interesting fruit. Do try and grow some. Maureen is a member of Knox Home Garden Club, a member of the Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society of Victoria and Editor of their magazine Gardeners Gazette. Paul is an awardwinning photographer and Past President of Knox Home Garden Club.
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The only cacti with true leaves Climbing cactus Pereskia sp.
Cactus flower Gymnocalycium sp. Fruit of the Prickly Pear cactus Opuntia sp.
Gardening therapy Text provided by Marie Edwards
(L to R) Susan Stephenson, Jan Fane, Pat Ingram and Judy Carter, members of Merimbula District Garden Club at Pambula Hospital on the Far South Coast of NSW planting perfumed plants for the enjoyment of patients and visitors in the garden bed built by our male garden club members Photo supplied by Merimbula District GC, NSW
Horticultural therapy is used in range of community services including hospitals, rehabilitation centres, aged care facilities and in homes and community gardens. When using gardens and gardening activities for therapy the focus is on landscaping and design as gardens can stimulate all the senses – touch, vision, hearing, smell and taste. Design features are critical for both garden beds and pathways. The latter need to be free of trip hazards and wide enough to allow three people to walk side by side and the garden itself should be fenced to be safe and secure for people who may be suffering dementia. The practical requirements for those with physical disabilities or recovering from injury need to be taken into consideration to assist with physical rehabilitation. Seating needs to be provided where people – both patients and carers – can rest, enjoy the surrounds or sit and chat. In North America, the UK and Europe, Social and Theraputic Horticulture as a profession is well established but is little known here where such work is largely carried out by occupational therapists as well as diversional therapists, nurses and horticulturists. The aim is to bring positive change to people’s lives, their families and the staff who support them so that they can enjoy the creative expression and physical health benefits that gardens and gardening activities offer. The Horticultural Therapy Society of NSW is an incorporated charitable association formed in 1987. It is based in Sydney and is the main body for horticultural therapy in NSW. There are Horticultural Therapy Societies in Victoria and South Australia. With thanks to Marie Edwards a volunteer with Cultivate, Horticultural Therapy Society of NSW (an affiliate of The Garden Clubs of Australia) based at the Telopea Centre, campus of Ryde TAFE, 250 Blaxland Road, Ryde. Further information www.cultivatensw.org.au or phone 02 9448 6392.
Geranium Cottage Retail Specialist Pelargonium/Geranium Nursery and Café
The Dale Family invites you to visit their nursery and café set in the gardens of their heritage cottage. Discover the joys of pelargoniums, zonal and ivy geraniums, scented leaf geraniums and interesting species. Learn how to use them in landscaping and how to grow them in pots, baskets and window boxes. Wide range of plants and pots available for sale. Special prices for group bookings and bus tours. Open every day 9am - 4pm.
828 Old Northern Rd, Middle Dural NSW 2158 Tel (02) 9652 0475 Fax (02) 9652 0479 www.geraniumcottage.com.au
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Plants & Gardening
white bell-shaped flowers, native to east coast areas of Queensland, NSW, Victoria and Tasmania. The cultivar ‘Prima Donna’ has pink flowers. Consider growing plants endemic to your area which will encourage native animals into your garden and, of course, help the environment. Place water bowls in areas frequented by birds and remember to keep them clean. photo Iris in spring Photo Joan Davis, Green Point and District GC
Seasonal tips for the spring garden Text Hazel King
Spring is looked upon as a time of peak flowering and renewal. A time to look and admire and enjoy your own garden. Prune. Summer flowering shrubs may require pruning in order to promote new growth, followed by an application of fertiliser. Examples: hibiscus, gardenia, tibouchina, grevillea. Lavenders and daisies flower for much of the year making it hard to decide when to prune. Consider trimming when approximately 70% of the flowers are dead. Deciduous shrubs such as spirea, philadelphus, weigelia and abelia require heavy pruning after flowering. Remove old stems from the base of the plant to promote new growth. Plant a tree. The Jacaranda’s wonderful mauve-blue flowers appear in late spring as does the less well-known pink-flowering Calodendron capense Cape Chestnut, native to the Cape area of South Africa. Also in flower is Eleocarpus reticulatus Blueberry Ash with 14
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Plant annuals and perennials for summer display. Many perennials flower late spring, summer and into autumn – great value for little effort. Salvias and daylilies are easy-care, long-flowering plants. Dahlias have experienced a return to popularity over the last few years probably due to their large colour range, flower shape and size and autumn-flowering period. Dig an area carefully and add dolomite or lime to very acidic soil. Larger varieties will require staking. Fertilise fruit trees. Check citrus for pests. Remove dead flowers from bulbs, unless wishing to grow them from seed, fertilise while leaves are present. Many bulbs can be left to naturalise, however others may have to be lifted and stored because of climatic conditions or if clumps require dividing. Note the position if leaving in situ to avoid damage when work is being carried out in future. Prepare beds for summer vegetables. Dig thoroughly before applying compost, manure and fertiliser. Fork over compost regularly. If the tomato is grown and harvested early the fruit can escape the attention of mid-summer pests. Check container plants as they may require fresh soil. A renewal of the top few centimetres may be sufficient but make sure to avoid damage to the surface roots. Add a slow release fertiliser. Indoor plants require particular attention in spring and may benefit from a removal to a sheltered spot outdoors. Lawns can be top dressed to fill hollows. Repair bare patches with seed or runners, then fertilise. With the advent of warmer weather and spring growth, many pests will be on the increase. It is important to keep their numbers under control, so early detection is necessary. Be on the look-out for fungal disease. Horticulturist Hazel King is a Fellow and Life Member of Australian Institute of Horticulture. She taught horticulture in evening colleges before her retirement and is an experienced judge and a member of Berry and District Garden Club, NSW.
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Plants & Gardening
Tree Peonies Dominic Wong, photos Patricia Prior For gardeners who live in a milder climate, but would like to grow a peony, the tree peony is the answer. Tree peonies are deciduous woody shrubs and will thrive in a wide range of climatic conditions ranging from inland and mountainous regions to coastal regions (but at least five kilometres from the sea). If the area you live in experiences winter temperatures of five degrees Celsius overnight or below, it will do well.
Cultivation Planting: Into the planting hole put in an eight inch pot full of garden lime or dolomite lime with a second eight inch pot full of Dynamic Lifter or Organic Life pellets. Mix well. Remove tree peony from the pot and plant it one or two inches deeper than it was in the pot (without teasing the roots out as these are quite brittle). Deep planting encourages it to sucker so it will produce more flowers. Position: Easterly position with afternoon shade is preferred. Watering: Well drained soil is essential for peonies. More peonies are killed by overwatering than by underwatering. Feeding: November (Melbourne Cup Day), again in April (Anzac Day) with a handful of rose food, a handful of blood and bone, and a few tablespoons full of Sulphate of Potash. Dominic Wong’s beautiful garden Chinoiserie at Mittagong in the Southern Highlands of NSW is open 10.00 am to 4.30pm from 24 September to 24 November this spring and on selected dates in late summer and autumn. Tree peonies and rare perennials are for sale on open days or by appointment. Contact Dominic on 0411 783 883 or email: peonyman.23@gmail.com or visit www. highlandsnsw.com.au/garderns/chinoiserie The photos were taken at Centro Botanica Moutan, an extensive Peonie Nursery, near Viterbo in Italy.
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Plants & Gardening
Scarlet Fuchsia
Branching grass-flag
Three spring-flowering natives Text and photos Jeff Howes©
Scarlet Fuchsia Graptophyllum excelsum Graptophyllum comes from the Greek graptos, written on, and phyllon, a leaf, referring to the markings on the leaf (especially noticeable on G.ilicifolium) and excelsum from the Latin excelsus, tall or lofty. Its natural habitat is north of Cairns to south of Gladstone but this versatile plant is hardy and is resistant to light frosts, and is able to be grown as far south as Melbourne – or so I have read. I have two plants in my Sydney garden which have grown to about 3 m high and 1 m wide with multiple stems. They receive morning sun and afternoon shade and I try not to let them dry out for any length of time. The glossy leaves are about 3 cm x 1 cm and are dark green and shaped like a spatula - with a broad tip and tapering to the base. An attractive foliage plant, G.excelsum is outstanding when the deep scarlet tubular flowers appear in spring and early summer. In a good flowering season (after a wet year) the flowers cover every branch and are followed by club-shaped woody seed capsules which contain two seeds. Maintenance: mature plants can get quite leggy with all the growth at the top, so after flowering, I cut about one third of the stems back quite hard as this promotes new growth down low, making the plant more attractive (well, to me anyway). The preferred propagation method is by cuttings.
Branching grass-flag Libertia paniculata L.paniculata is named after a Belgian botanist, Anne-Marie Libert (1782 to 1865), a self-taught mycologist who studied mosses and lichens and their unassuming relatives. Paniculata is from the Latin panicula, a tuft or panicle and the suffix atus, possessing, referring to the much-branched flowering stems of the species. A genus of about 12 species, only two occur in Australia. L.paniculata is widespread in rainforest and wet, open forest on coast and adjacent ranges from south-east Queensland to eastern Victoria.The other Australian species is L.pulchella and both are perennial herbs with grass-like leaves arising from an underground rhizome. I always have a few growing in my garden. Their grass-like leaves grow to about 50 cms long and bear delicate white flowers on slender stems in spring. They grow in most soils but flower best in a semi-shaded position where they do not dry out. Propagation is relatively easy from seed which does not require any special pre-treatment but may be slow to germinate. Maintenance: After flowering, cut the foliage back hard as this encourages fresh new growth and also removes any old flowering stems and seed heads which can make the plant look a bit ‘scrappy’ if left on the plant. 16
OUR GARDENS
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
The Little Wattle Bird Text Jean Innis, photos Ross Innis A neighbour cut down a three metre pittosporum that was growing hard against our shared back fence. Horror! This small tree has, over the years, housed many families of the Little Wattle bird Anthochaera chrysoptera. Fortunately it is an urban survivor and to our delight found itself the perfect bird’s nest. Austral Indigo
Austral Indigo Indigofera australis Indigofera australis has very attractive flowers and beautiful coloured foliage and is often referred to in reference books as a ‘superior plant which should be grown more often’.
We watched Hen, as we called her, daily building her nest. When she was happy with her home she laid two beautiful speckled eggs two days apart. We felt privileged watching the pair feed the chicks. The cock bird roosted at night no more than five metres away in an old banksia and sat watching the chicks when Hen went looking for food. Our home is in the middle of Tomaree National Park in NSW and bird life is plentiful. We don’t feed the birds but have strategically placed earthenware water bowls which are always clean and filled with fresh water. This season we have had three bird families: the Little Wattle Bird, a pair of magpies with young and rosellas in a purposebuilt nesting box. Jean is a member of Christmas Bush Garden Club, Port Stephens, NSW.
It is an open erect spreading shrub, widespread in southern Australia from the south-east of Western Australia to north-east Queensland. A member of the pea family Indigofera australis grows well in most soils and prefers a semi or dappled shaded position. I have had them growing in my garden for the last 10 years and they have all grown to about 2 metres high and about 1.8 metres wide. The attractive pink to purplish flowers appear in late August and flower into October and contrast well against the pinnate blue green leaves. They are said to tolerate moderately heavy frosts, however my seed-grown plants did not survive the first frost in my daughter’s Southern Highlands garden. Perhaps I did not give them enough time to acclimatise to the colder growing conditions.
Hen in the birds nest fern
The two eggs
Maintenance: I have found that Indigofera australis is at its best if pruned from early age to encourage a denser shape. I prune them quite hard after flowering and try to avoid pruning into very old wood, as I have found there will be no regrowth. Overall, Indigofera australis is a stunning plant in and out of flower and very suited to a semi- shaded garden. Jeff is a keen grower of native plants and is a regular contributor to Our Gardens. He gardens at his home in Westleigh, Sydney.
The pair of hungry chicks
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Travel
Flora of Bhutan Text and photos Christine Erratt
Hemlocks in the mist
As we drive along, giant 350 year old hemlock conifers Tsuga dumosa loom threateningly through the rising mist above nine metre high red, pink and white rhododendrons. Hundreds of primroses Primula denticulata dance in the wind protected only slightly by the surrounding dwarf bamboo.
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OUR GARDENS
We meander through clumps of low-lying dwarf cotoneaster Cotoneaster microphylla and exquisite bright blue gentians Gentiana ornata. Daphnes Daphne papyraea await picking for use in paper-making. Splashes of orange euphorbias Euphorbia griffithii cluster together. Exotic Cobra lilies Arisaema ssp. stand sentinel over surrounding ferns. Splashes of yellow Piptanthus nepalensis abound. Conifers of many species crowd the mountainsides. Occasionally grey langurs, black capped langurs and macaques eye us from their perches in the fig trees or from the ground. Yaks act as sentinels to their high altitude grazing grasses. Orchids and lichen cling to moss-covered trees.
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
Primula denticulate
Primula denticulate
Cobra lily Arisaema intermedium Euphorbia griffithii Clusters of Euphorbia griffithii and dwarf bamboo
Low-lying Gentiana ornata
Wild turmeric Curcuma aromatic
This is Bhutan and we six friends are enjoying three weeks of springtime travelling across this beautiful small mountainous kingdom in the Himalayas. This type of travel is not for luxury-seekers. This is a third world country slowly and carefully providing for foreigners who wish to experience the magic of this part of the world. Accommodation in 3 star hotels built specially for the tourist trade provide more than adequate facilities and we are very efficiently looked after. Our local guide and driver are exceptional – not only with their care of us but with their extensive knowledge that allows us not only to see into the culture, religion and history of their country, but also to stop at any time to leap precariously down an incline or amble along the side of the dirt road to examine and photograph as many flowers and trees as we wish. Bliss for our group of plant lovers! Wild turmeric flowers Curcuma aromatica sneak through the undergrowth beside vast areas of terraced fields used for growing red rice, chillies, potatoes, corn, beans, wheat and much more.
We try to learn to differentiate between the conifers: hemlock, cypress, blue pine, and chir pine, as well as larch, juniper, spruce and cedar. We had more success identifying the more familiar trees such as birch, oak, maple, horse chestnut, dogwood and many more. Of these, it is the ancient hemlocks that I adore. A visit to the Royal Botanic Garden at Serbithang, a short distance from the capital city, Thimphu, gives us more insight into the native species and enables us to see, in particular, more orchids in flower than we are able to observe close-up from the roadside. A walk though the Thrumshingla Rhododendron Garden at an altitude close to 4,000 m also allows us to feel the gentleness of the understorey and to appreciate the enormous height that these ‘rhodies’ can grow to. In all, there are 22 species of them in this special garden within the Thrumshingla National Park. Long will we remember fondly this extraordinary experience of springtime in Bhutan. Christine is an enthusiastic plant lover and a member of Gordon GC, Sydney.
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Travel
Ninfa A romantic Italian garden with a turbulent past Text and photos Patricia Prior
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OUR GARDENS
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
To visit these beautiful gardens in spring is to see the roses, iris, wisteria, tree peonies and Judas trees in flower against a backdrop of green in a variety of brilliant hues – the colours mirrored in the stream running through the gardens. Pomegranates, clematis, magnolias, maples, cistus, valerian, cyclamen and lavender grow in profusion; carpets of daisy-studded grass run to the edge of ruined towers and tumbled walls which are weighed down with great masses of red roses - Ninfa enjoys a microclimate that’s perfect for all kinds of flora. Its first inhabitants were the early Romans who thought the place so beautiful they named it after the nymphs they believed resided there. By the thirteenth century, the town of Ninfa was important enough to attract the attentions of the Caetani family whose fortunes surged when Benedetto Caetani was elected pope (Boniface Vlll) in 1294. During the Late Middle Ages, however, the town was squabbled over, sacked, beset by malarial mosquitoes,
and eventually abandoned. It slumbered in benign neglect until the twentieth century when descendents of the Caetanis transformed the ruins into a piece of heaven and opened the site to the public. Described as a coincidence of history, botany and art, Ninfa’s 21 acres are now managed by the Caetani Foundation in collaboration with the WWF. The gardens, open only on the first weekend of the month, usually have long lines at the entrance, but considerable space is allowed between each group keeping the gardens uncrowded and tranquil. Ninfa is located about 64 kilometres south-east of Rome. It was one of the gardens I visited last May with a small group organized by Italian Tours to gardens in and around Sorrento, Naples, Florence and Bellagio on Lake Como. E: info@italiantours.com.au
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Comment Patricia Prior Editor
Our Gardens is growing We would like to hear from any member who has horticultural qualifications, is a capable writer and is willing to give some time to the publication of our quarterly magazine. Give me a call on 02 9973 1247 or get in touch by email priors@iinet.net.au
Colonial Anti-Ant Devices
Photo Dorothy Marsh, Gordon GC.
In the cellar kitchen of historic National Trust house, Lindesay at Darling Point, Sydney the erstwhile food cupboard has only two of its feet in the ‘saucers’ which were used to keep ants away from stored food. The House Committee would dearly love to find two more. If you can help please contact 02 9363 2401 or email lindesay@nationaltrust.com.au
Chelsea ‘Gold’ As widely reported the entry by the Fleming’s team in the Chelsea Flower Show 2013 won not only a prestigious Gold Medal but also the ‘Best in Show’ honour – the equivalent of Olympic Gold. The striking design by Phillip Johnson Landscapes featured sustainability and took a team of 18 volunteers a total of 17 days and over 2,500 man-hours to build the garden using 38 tonnes of tools, equipment, materials and plants – a Herculean effort for a wonderful result.
A major garden show for Sydney in September The Australian Garden Show is a new and major event to be held at Centennial Park 5 to 8 September. Visit: www.australiangardenshowsydney.com.au
Photo Papermill Media
A correction Last issue carried a story about Val Eacott’s garden Hillview near Boonah in Queensland. The name of her club was given incorrectly. She is a member of both Boonah GC and the African Violet Society and her garden will be open 30 November and 1 December for OGA. (Enquiries 07 5463 2476)
From members My sprawling deciduous semi-climber labeled Quisqualis mussaendifolia ‘Red Gem’ has stunning red bracts and small creamy white flowers throughout the warmer months of the year. Prune arching branches for more flowers. It is frost sensitive.’ From Glenys Bruun, Director of Zones, GCA
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OUR GARDENS
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
We welcome members’ views – particularly about the types of articles you like.
Our magazine is always excellent but the inclusion in the winter issue of that quirky story about the floral loos at the Scottish Garden Centre was wonderful.’ Rowena Margetts, Membership Secretary GCA
Congratulations on your great magazine which is a joy to read. Its quality has grown no end.’ Margaret Christie, Publicity Officer, Wyoming Garden Club, NSW
The Garden Clubs of Australia’s Annual Photo Competition 2013 Entry forms are now available from our website www.gardenclubs.org.au, by email (ghoad@internode.on.net), or by writing to George Hoad, 52 Alfred Road, KILLABAKH, NSW, 2429 enclosing a stamped addressed envelope for return of the entry form. Closing date: 23 August, 2013. There are a number of categories. Prizes will again be provided by the GCA and sponsors Organic Crop Protectants, Seasol International, Yates, Bunnings, Neutrog and Open Gardens Australia. If you enjoy photography and are a member of an affiliated club or a subscriber to Our Gardens, do take part.
Photos from the 2012 Competition
Jenny Williams, Krambach GC
Jillian O’Riley, Krambach GC
Jim Powell, St George Sutherland Camellia Soc
Leon Morrell, Kingston & District GC
Linda Brennan, Tamworth Cottage Gardeners Club
Lorraine Southgate, MacMasters Beach GC
Margaret Head, Frenchs Forest GC
Patricia Douglas, Christmas Bush GC
The winners and finalists were announced in issue 55 and these photos have been chosen at random from last year’s competition. More photos will be included in later issues and displayed on our website.
Janet Granger, Gerringong GC
Jenny Donohoe, Camellias Illawara
Julie-Ann Hill, Port Augusta GC
Ruth Bieri, The Hills Shire GC
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What’s on – where and when
Berry Gardens Festival
Berry Gardens Festival, NSW 17 to 20 October Bellawongarah is an informal garden in a subtropical mountain rainforest – just one of the superb gardens to be seen during this annual festival now in its 24th year. Visit www.berrygardens.org.au for further information.
Garden Weekend at Bathurst, NSW 26 to 27 October Both town and country gardens will be open to view over this. The one pictured features a lovely collections of clematis, hellebores, succulents, salvias and penstemon. Enquiries, email annesgarden@bigpond.com or ph: 02 6331 4117.
Leura Gardens Festival, NSW 5 to 13 October One of the gardens open for the annual is Brabourne known for its magnificent trees and sweeping lawns. Pictured is the tulip terrace framed by a pink flowering cherry tree on one side and a maple on the other. Details E: leuragardensfestival@fastmail. com.au or visit www.leuragardensfestival.com
Garden Weekend at Bathurst
Biennial Convention in Ballarat, Victoria 15 to 18 September Photo Ballarat Botanical Gardens Check out the web www.fbbg.org.au for details of the GCA Biennial Convention hosted by The Friends of Ballarat Botanical Gardens. The programme and registration forms can be downloaded. Visit www.gardenclubs.org.au
Iris at Eidolia Park, NSW Photo John Taylor If you find iris irrisistable take part in the four-day Convention to be held by The Iris Society of NSW 26-30 October. This offers a wonderful opportunity to join in activities which include a visit to Eidolia Park, outside Millthorpe. Details, visit www.irissocietynsw.org.au
What’s out A superb new book Capturing Flora Leura Garden Festival
Biennial Convention in Ballarat
Iris at Eidolia Park
Ranging from Dampier in the 18th century to date this lavishly-illustrated hard cover book by Gordon Morrison et al is published by the Art Gallery of Ballarat and distributed through Florilegium (www.florilegium.com.au) It would be a significant addition to a club or personal library and is fantastic value for only $69.99.
The essential Guide to Australian open gardens Open Gardens Australia annual Guide is now at bookshops and news agencies, $19.95 RRP or order direct from OGA www.opengarden.org.au
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OUR GARDENS
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
Zone News and updates
A timely gift for Goulburn's 150th anniversary L-R Beryl McKenzie, Barry Thompson, Lexie Shearstone
Carolyn Dawes Assistant Editor
Celebrating the bicentenary of the crossing of the Blue Mountains of NSW In April the Blue Mountains Zone conducted a number of gardening seminars along the route taken by Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth. Attended by approximately 600 people who enjoyed guest speakers including ABC Gardening presenters Jerry ColebyWilliams and Angus Stewart, historian Professor Ian Jack, author Alison Halliday and Darug speaker and educator Bundeluk. Jennifer Stackhouse, horticulturist and garden writer, was the moderator for the seminars. The Zone also held a competition amongst primary schools to name a new variety of everlasting daisy commissioned by Angus Stewart and propagated by Gondwana Nursery at Barkers Vale. The daisy, named ‘Explorers Triumph’, will be released this spring. The competition attracted more than 500 entries from the schools in the Zone and was won by Heidi Wood of Blaxland East Public School Jennifer Stackhouse, moderator for the seminars
Goulburn, on the southern tablelands of NSW, celebrated the sesquicentenary of its proclamation as a city – Australia’s first inland city – this year. Goulburn is known as the Lilac City and also glories in its public rose gardens and its own rose variety ‘City of Goulburn’. To mark the occasion, Goulburn Argyle Garden Club, Goulburn Evening Garden Club and Goulburn Garden Club, which are clubs from the Southern Highlands Zone, NSW, combined to present an enduring birthday gift of a sundial on a pedestal which was unveiled in Goulburn’s Victoria Park on 7 March 2013. Argyle Club President, Robyn Rawlinson, presided at the event attended by Mayor of Goulburn Mulwaree Council, Geoff Kettle. The garden clubs were represented by Beryl McKenzie (Argyle Club Patron), Barry Thompson (President Goulburn Evening) and Lexie Shearstone (Goulburn Garden Club Patron). There were also approximately 100 members of the public in attendance. Jane Reardon, Secretary, Argyle Garden Club
A two-disc DVD of the seminar series has been produced and is available from the Blue Mountains Zone. The most satisfying outcome for the efforts of the Zone was to see clubs and members all working together to the GCA motto ‘Friendship through Gardens’. Barry Redshaw, Blue Mountains Zone Coordinator
New Zone Coordinator for Hunter North Zone, NSW Congratulations to George Hoad who was recently appointed Zone Coordinator of the Hunter North Zone. We thank Robin Gregor for her years of service to the clubs of this zone. George is currently Assistant Zone Coordinator to Joy Ward in the Lower North Coast, NSW and is a member of the GCA Committee. George Hoad, Coordinator Hunter North Zone
Carolyn Dawes Assistant Editor
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CLUB AND ZONE NEWS
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Deadline 1 September 2013. Please send items and images for Club News to Carolyn Dawes. 9 Lachlan Street, Macquarie ACT 2614 or email: carolyn.dawes@bigpond.com
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Nelson Bay Garden Club, NSW held a ‘Decorate a Shoe’ competition at their March meeting. All the entries were wonderful and many great ideas were exhibited making it very difficult to judge, but after much deliberation member Alison Raeburn was declared the winner. Her prize was to have her photo published in the spring issue of Our Gardens. Jan Murphy, Secretary (Photo 1) Alison Raeburn and her decorated shoe (Nelson Bay GC)
Christmas Bush Garden Club, NSW celebrated its 31st birthday in February with a luncheon for 61 members and guests held at the CWA Hall, Nelson Bay. A Certificate of Congratulations was received from the GCA to mark the occasion and was greatly appreciated by the members. President Jan Smith presented a 25 years Outstanding Service Badge to Gwen Eldridge. Gwen has held many positions on the committee including President, Vice-President and Event Coordinator for nine years and also participated in the garden club’s ‘Community Garden Project’ at the Arts and Crafts Centre at Nelson Bay. Jan McCafferty for Jan Williams, Secretary (Photo 2) L-R Gwen Eldridge and Jan Smith (Christmas Bush GC)
Members of the Murwillumbah & District Garden Club, NSW gathered for their annual awards presentation. The Ann Williams Clark medallion was presented to Len Foster and both Len and his wife, Eva, were awarded life memberships. Len was president of the club for sixteen consecutive years and for most of that time also undertook tour coordination, a role he will continue to perform. Len, ably supported by Eva in all his endeavours, has organised successful tours to venues as far afield as the Hunter Valley and Lightning Ridge. His most recent tour to Toowoomba and the Darling Downs in Queensland was a highlight. In presenting the life memberships Secretary Steven 26
OUR GARDENS
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Wedd congratulated Len and Eva on their outstanding contribution to the Club over many years. Margaret Legge was presented with the President’s Award for her many years of dedicated work. John Bennett, Zone Coordinator Far North Coast, NSW and Wayne Tagget, Murwillumbah GC (Photo 3) L-R Len Foster (Ann Williams Clark medallion) and John Bamforth (Founding Member)
Members of the Goulburn Argyle Garden Club, NSW were very successful exhibitors at the 20th Annual Goulburn Rose Festival. Robyn Simpson, Dawn Thorn, Barry Thompson and Pat Larcombe all submitted entries. Pat Larcombe was named Best Decorative Exhibitor and members Margaret and Barry Thompson were congratulated for their efforts in the organisation of the festival. Jane Reardon, Secretary Goulburn Argyle Garden Club (Photo 4) Margaret Thompson (Treasurer) surrounded by freshly picked roses from Victoria Park
Wee Waa Horticultural & Garden Society, NSW inducted their first ever life members in November 2012. Gwen Simshauser, Shirley Pankhurst, Dudley Pankhurst and Ollie Maxwell were inaugural members of the club when it began 25 years ago and it was only fitting that they were presented with their awards at the club’s 25th anniversary luncheon. Each of the inductees has bought special qualities for the enrichment of the club but the overriding factor is their sense of generosity in imparting their knowledge and expertise to fellow club members. This coupled with lots of fun and friendship has made for a strong and optimistic club. Pat Kiem, Publicity (Photo 5) L-R Ollie Maxwell, Dudley Pankhurst, Shirley Pankhurst, Gwen Simshauser, Wendy McNair (President)
Merimbula and District Garden Club, NSW member Nell Harris is still blooming after celebrating her 90th birthday at a recent meeting of the club. Nell is
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
Deadline 1 September 2013. Please send items and images for Club News to Carolyn Dawes. 9 Lachlan Street, Macquarie ACT 2614 or email: carolyn.dawes@bigpond.com
CLUB AND ZONE NEWS
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surrounded by some winning floral entries from the club’s monthly competition. Susan Stephenson, Secretary (Photo 6) Nell Harris among the flowers (Merimbula GC)
Bromeliad growers at Somersby, Peter and Sandra Martin, opened their garden gates to members of Wyoming Garden Club, NSW earlier this year. The club members relished the opportunity to view the wonderful collection of these amazing plants. They included the native of tropical America, Crimson Cup, which features closely placed leathery foliage with spiny margins. The Martin grandchildren, pictured with club member Nancy Newton, seem oblivious to the colourful picture in shades of pink they present. The magnificent stringy bark trees in the background are a feature of the Martin’s garden and add to its rural charm. Margaret Christie, Publicity Officer (Photo 7) Nancy Newton with the Martin grandchildren (Wyoming GC)
Liadley Garden Club, Qld recently held their Friendship Day and invited Annette Macfarlane, Radio Broadcaster for the ABC, to be their guest speaker. Zone coordinator for Lockyer/Darling Downs, Craig Jurd, was also in attendance. (Photo 8) L-R Annette Macfarlane, Craig Jurd and Fran Mills (President, Laidley GC)
Warwick Horticultural Society, Qld has just celebrated its 105th year. Their Autumn Flower Show was a
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wonderful success. Dorothy Lee was an exhibitor and is pictured with her daughter Margo and grand daughter. Also in attendance was Glenys Bruun, Director of Zones, GCA and Glenys’ brother John McGrath, Nambour Garden Club member. (Photo 9) L-R Dorothy Lee, Glenys Bruun, John McGrath, Margo and daughter
Berowra Garden Club, NSW celebrated its 60th birthday with a delicious High Tea elegantly presented under the guidance of Helen Brown. Past and current members gathered to listen to guest speaker Judy Horton who spoke about ‘Australia’s Gardening History’ and the changes in gardening practices through the decades. Inaugural member, Pamela Gartung, cut the birthday cake which was made by Joy Hewitt and iced by Joan Milne. The stage was decorated with a beautiful floral arrangement designed by Cecelia Waite. Les Brown, President, summed up the occasion as a wonderful afternoon, great speaker, fabulous food, terrific atmosphere and a credit to all those who contributed to its organisation. Pam Naylon, Publicity (Photo 10) L-R Nada Resek, Shirley Crofts, Cecelia Waite and Eunice Alison
The beautiful wall hanging provided the inspiration for the people’s choice award at the Friendship Day for the Caloundra Floral Art Society, Qld. (Photo 11) Stunning floral art display, Caloundra Floral Art Society
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Deadline 1 September 2013. Please send items and images for Club News to Carolyn Dawes. 9 Lachlan Street, Macquarie ACT 2614 or email: carolyn.dawes@bigpond.com
DIARY DATES AUGUST
14-15 SA. Enfield Horticultural Society, Spring Show, Klemzig Community Hall, 242 North East Road, Klemzig. Entry Gold coin. Ph 08 8346 6155
3-4 NSW. Berry & District GC, Camellia & Flower Show, Berry School of Arts, Alexandra St. Berry. Ph 02 4464 1191
10-11 SA. Camellias South Australia, Annual Camellia Show, Carrick Hill, 46 Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield. Ph 08 8295 6563 or 0419 815 035
14-15 TAS. Launceston Horticultural Society, Spring Show. Featuring Daffodils and Camellias.St Ailbes Hall, Margaret Street, Launceston. Entry $2. Ph 03 6327 1126
10-11 NSW. Camellias Illawarra, 15th Annual Reticulata Show, TAFE Function Centre, Foley’s Lane, North Wollongong. Entry $4. www.camelliasillawarra.org.au
14-15 NSW. Australasian Native Orchid Soc. – Sydney Group. Spring Show. Eden Gardens. Cnr. Lane Cove Rd and Fontenoy Rd, North Ryde.
16-18 NSW. St Ives Orchid Fair and Show, St Ives Showground, Mona Vale Road, St Ives. Entry $5. (Phone for bus party rates) Ph 02 9451 9144
15-18 VIC. GCA’s Biennial National Convention, Ballarat. Hosted by Friends of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. Ph 0419 891 913 or E: info@fbbg.org.au
17-18 NSW. Bonsai Society of Sydney, Annual Bonsai Exhibition, Checkers resort and conference centre, 331 Mona Vale Road, Terrey Hills. Entry $5. Ph 02 9450 2802
20-22 NSW. Coffs Harbour Garden Club, Annual Spring Garden Competition. Friday night Cavanbah Hall, Coffs Harbour. Open Gardens Sat & Sun. Ph 02 6690 2511
21 NSW. Caringbah Garden Club, Spring Floral Art & Garden Show. Caringbah High School gymnasium, Willarong Rd. Caringbah. Entry $3. Ph 02 9525 6152
28 NSW. Mona Vale Garden Club, 42nd Spring Flower Show. Ted Blackwood Hall, Cnr. Jacksons & Boondah Rds, Warriewood. Entry $2. Ph 02 9971 7875
SEPTEMBER 1,8,15,22 SA. Camellia Society Adelaide Hills, Open Days at Stangate House, Euston Rd. Aldgate. Entry $4. Ph 0408 081 124 or www.stangatehouse.org.au
5-7 VIC. Victorian Floral Art Judges Assoc., ‘A Floral Affair’, Geelong, Victoria. Information and the schedule, Maxine Webb, E: ronmax1@bigpond.com
5-7 NSW. Maitland Orchid Society, Orchid Show, Thornton Marketplace, Thornton.
6-7 TAS. Hobart Horticultural Society, Daffodil, Camellia & Floral Art Show, Hobart Town Hall, 50 Macquarie Street, Hobart. Ph 03 6272 3629f
28-29 QLD. Wondai Spring Garden Expo. Wondai Sportsground and Lions Pavilion, Bunya Highway Wondai. Entry $4. Ph 07 4168 5978.
28-29 NSW. Kulnura & Dist. G C. Plant Lovers Fair. Kariong Mountains High School, Festival Drive, Kariong. Entry $10pp or bus groups $8pp. Ph 02 4373 1186 or 02 4374 1641
7-8, 14-15 NSW. Illawarra Grevillea Park Bulli, Open Days. www.grevilleapark.org
OCTOBER
7-8 NSW. Illawarra District Orchid Society, Spring Show. Coniston Public School, 123 Gladstone Ave. Coniston. Ph 02 4274 4753
5 NSW. Woolgoolga Garden Club, Mini Garden Expo. Woolgoolga Public School, Scarborough Street. Speakers, stalls, plants and eats.
7-8 NSW. Illawarra Bromeliad Society, Spring Show. Uniting Church Hall, Russell Street Corrimal. Ph 02 9544 4726 or 02 4261 1173
5-13 NSW. Leura Gardens Festival. 9.30am-4.30pm daily. www.leuragardensfestival.com.au
12-14 QLD. Laidley Garden Club, ‘Gardens & Flowers’, Laidley Cultural Centre, Plainland Road Laidley. Entry $3. Ph 07 5465 1413
14 NSW. Twin Towns & District, Flower & Garden Show. Tweed Heads Civic Centre. 8.30am. Entry $3.00.
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11-8 Nov NSW. Campbell Rhododendron Gardens, Bacchante Street Blackheath. Entry gold coin. Ph 02 4787 8965 www.rhododendrongarden.org.au
12-13 NSW. Cowra Garden Club, Open Gardens. Ph 02 6345 4247
14 NSW. Berowra Garden Club, Annual Spring Show. Old District Hall, Cnr. Crowley & Berowra Waters Rds. Refreshments. Entry $2. Ph 02 9456 2070
13 VIC. Charlton Garden Club. Open Garden Day. Registration at Senior Citizens’ rooms from 1.30pm. A great mix of gardens and proceeds to benefit the new hospital.
14-15 ACT. Horticultural Society of Canberra, Spring Bulb and Camellia Show, Lancaster Hall, Wesley Centre, National Circuit, Forrest. www.hsoc.org.au
17-20 NSW. Berry & District Garden Club, Garden Festival. 8 open gardens $20 or $5 per garden. Ph 02 4464 1191 www.berrygardens.org.au
OUR GARDENS
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
DIARY DATES
Deadline 1 September 2013. Please send items and images for Club News to Carolyn Dawes. 9 Lachlan Street, Macquarie ACT 2614 or email: carolyn.dawes@bigpond.com
18-20 NSW. Galston Garden Club. Open Garden Weekend. Eight gardens. Entry $5 per garden or $20 for all gardens. Ph 02 9653 2394 or E: galstongarden@hotmail.com
19-20 NSW. Tamworth Cottage Gardeners, 8 Open Gardens. 9am-5pm. Ph 02 6766 2272 E: ph360420@bigpond.net.au
19-20 QLD. Buderim Garden Club, Spring Festival. 6 Open Gardens and Flower Show with Garden Sculpture Exhibition. Ph 07 5445 6495 www.buderimgardenclub.com
26 SA. SA Begonia Society, Spring Show. Klemzig Community Hall (NEW VENUE) 242 North East Rd, Klemzig 10am-4pm Entry $2. Ph 08 8321 9242
26 NSW. Iris Society of Aust./NSW Region, Annual Iris Show. School of Arts Hall, 217/219 Great Western H/way, Wentworth Falls. 9am-4pm. Entry $5. (Conc.) Ph 02 4784 2727
26-30 NSW. Australian Iris Convention hosted by Iris Soc. of Aust./NSW region, in the World Heritage Blue Mts. Featuring Iris Show (see above), talks, demonstrations, international experts and tours to gardens. For details and registration www.irises.org.au
26-27 ACT. Horticultural Society of Canberra, Iris, Rhododendron and Azalea Show. Lancaster Hall, Wesley Centre, National Circuit, Forrest. www.hsoc.org.au
26-27 NSW. Bathurst Spring Spectacular. 10 Open Gardens, annesgarden@bigpond.com
26-27 SA. Rose Society of SA, Spring Show. Burnside City Uniting Church, 384 Portrush Road, Tusmore. (NEW VENUE) www.sa.rose.org.au
26-27 NSW. Illawarra Rose Society. Annual Rose Show. Jamberoo Municipal Hall, Allowrie St., Jamberoo. Entry $3. Conc. $2. Ph 0407 933 871
27 NSW. Narrandera Garden Club, 7 Open Gardens, lunch at a country garden. Cost $10. Ph 02 6959 2228 or E: gwen.neilsen@bigpond.com.au
31Oct-2 No v NSW. Epiphyllum & Hoya Soc. of Aust. Annual Show. Bass Hill Plaza Shopping Centre .753 Hume Highway, Bass Hill. Ph 02 4655 2540 or 02 4647 1921 NOVEMBER
1-2 TAS. Hobart Horticultural Society, Rose, Iris & Floral Art Show. Hobart Town Hall, 50 Macquarie Street, Hobart. Ph 03 6272 3629 2-3 VIC. Ballarat Bonsai Society, Bonsai Exhibition. Robert Clark Centre, Ballarat Botanical Gardens. Entry $4 (Conc. $3). Ph 03 5345 3214
3 Rutherglen & District GC 10 gardens Corowa, Wahgunyah and Rutherglen. $10 covers entry to all gardens. Enquries. Information Centre, Rutherglen
8-10 NSW. Newcastle Bonsai Soc., Bonsai Exhibition. Charlestown Bowling Club, 5 Lincoln Street, Charlestown. Entry $5. Ph 0409 178 080
9-10 SA. St Mary’s Open Garden. ‘Roses in Stone’. V & A Lane, Penola. 10am-4.30pm Entry $8. Ph 08 8736 6070. E: stmaryswines@bigpond.com
9-10 TAS. Launceston Horticultural Society, Rose, Iris and Rhododendron Show. St Ailbes Hall, Margaret Street Launceston. Entry $2. Ph 03 6327 1126
13 WA. Capel & Districts GC, Friendship Day. 1237 Goodwood Rd., Capel. 10am-4pm. BBQ facilities. Entry Gold coin. Ph 08 9753 2268 or 08 9731 7050
16-17 ACT. Horticultural Society of Canberra, Spring Exhibition and Rose Show. Lancaster Hall Wesley Centre, National Circuit Forrest. www.hsoc.org.au
NOTICEBOARD AGM and Luncheon Tuesday 17 September 2013 The Notice of the AGM to be held in Ballarat on 17 September commencing at 10.00 am was sent, together with the Bulletin, to all affiliated clubs in early June. A delegate may be appointed by each club to vote, if voting is required, and to attend the Delegates’ meeting scheduled for 2.15pm after the AGM lunch. This informal meeting helps keep the GCA in touch with clubs. Further details or enquiries email: secretary@gardenclubs.org.au
Club Treasurers. The Bulletin contains a reminder about notifying the GCA if your club’s bank details change. If a Direct Debit to GCA is rejected due to failure to advise the correct bank BSB and account number a $25 penalty will be incurred. Contact details on page 3 of this issue.
Clover Hill Rare Plants Mail order nursery. Katoomba NSW. Epimediums, Rare Woodlanders, Bulbs and Perennials. Many new varieties. Garden open for group tours by appointment. 02 4782 9225 www.cloverhillrareplants.com
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Gleanings Preparing cut spring flowers From ‘Honeysuckle Times’, Newsletter of Gardeners’ Circle, WA, Autumn 2013
Bluebell Path, Laurie Horton, Kulnura and District GC
Daffodils and Bluebells: A drop of non oily disinfectant in half a pint of water keeps the water fresh Iris: Place stems first in hot water and then place in cold water. Lilacs: Remove all the leaves and hammer the stems before placing them in water. Tulips: Wrap in newspaper and stand up to the flower head in cold water overnight. This helps to keep the stems straight. Violets: Do best if you immerse the whole bunch in cool water for an hour or so, shake off the surplus water and arrange.
Persephone's Flower
Handy Hints From Port Augusta Garden Club, Winter 2013 Newsletter • Sprinkle pepper over the cut surface of pumpkin if storing it and it will stay fresh, even without refrigeration. • A large sprig of parsley placed in the saucepan in which cauliflower or cabbage is cooking greatly reduces the odour. • Line the bottoms of flower pots with newspaper to avoid soil washing away. By the time the paper rots, the soil will have set.
From The Royal Horticultural Society of Queensland, Winter 2013 Newsletter The Ancient Greeks were familiar with the daffodil, they called it ‘Persephone’s Flower’. They had a legend that it was once white until this daughter of the Earth Goddess who had wreathed her head with the blooms and fallen asleep, was captured by Pluto, God of the Underworld. At his touch the flowers turned to golden yellow. Strange to think that in more recent times, plant raisers have worked hard to give us white varieties like ‘Mount Hood’. How to deter moths, silverfish, dust mites and other insects. From ‘Herbal Thymes’, Newsletter of the Herb Society of WA, April 2013 Ingredients: 4 cloves, 1 head of lavender, 2 Bay leaves, 1 camphor ball, two drops of eucalyptus oil. Place all into a small muslin bag and tie the top. Hang in the wardrobe. It will also make your clothes smell fresh and lovely.
Lessons in organic gardening From Mosman Home Gardeners Bulletin, February 2013 The Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre, Kimbriki Road (off Mona Vale Road) Ingleside, Terrey Hills, Sydney) is running workshops to teach gardeners how to garden organically and how to implement sustainable living into everyday life. For all information about the workshops visit their website at www.kimbriki. com.au and click on ‘Eco House and Garden’. Ph: 02 9486 3512
Hen and Chickens The ‘hen’ is in the garden And the ‘chickens’ are there too; They’ve travelled far to get here Across the ocean blue. Of course they do no scratching, The reason is they can’t. They’re not like other chickens For they are just a plant From Dapto Garden Club’s Winter Newsletter, 2013.
SMILE LINES From the Monthly Bulletin of the Ku-ring-gai Orchid Society, June, 2013. Sign outside a second hand shop: We exchange anything - why not bring your spouse along and get a wonderful bargain.
Year-round garden festival calendar Go to the GCA website and click on ShowTime to see this useful listing of Australian and overseas garden shows and festivals. It is compiled and updated by Felicity Paton-Boxall, a member of MacMasters Beach GC. If you know of any annual events to add to the list email Felicity on gcashowtime@bigpond.com
30
OUR GARDENS
Magazine of The Garden Clubs of Australia Inc.
Garden Cruises & Tours E CH AR B O LY F OO IC O K E R O Y FS O U UR IT E
Private small ship botanical cruises & tours for people who share a love of gardens
Saguenay River
Inverewe Gardens MS Island Sky Isle of Mull North Sea Isle of Iona Aberdeen Isle of Jura Isle of Gigha Edinburgh Dublin Bodnant Garden Dunmore Portmerion East Snowdonia National Park London Isle of Cruise Portsmouth Coach Scilly
Quebec City
See the colours of Fall
Montreal RV Grande 14 Mariner Oswego Amsterdam Lake Ontario Troy China ONTARIO NEW YORK Poughkeepsie Clayton
New York City PENNSYLVANIA NEW JERSEY 2 Washington D.C. Philadelphia
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No. of nights stay
UK
Bodnant Garden
Shrewsbury Hidcote Oxford London 2 Beth Chatto Garden 1 Sissinghurst Garden 2 Great Dixter Tunbridge Wells BTCW10
Hudson River & Canadian Lakes Cruise in Fall – Mansions & Gardens
British Isles, Castles, Gardens & History Cruise
Chelsea Flower Show, UK & Welsh Gardens
Departing 12 October 2014
Departing 24 May 2014
Departing 22 May 2014
Included highlights: 10 nights cruising aboard the luxury small ship, the MS Island Sky Cruise the Isles of Scilly and Tresco Visit Snowdonia & Bodnant Garden in Wales Visit Mount Stewart in Northern Ireland Visit Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull Visit Crathes Castle
Included highlights: 9 nights outstanding accommodation Visit Chelsea Flower Show 15 meals & airport transfers Enjoy a lecture by Rosemary Alexander Visit Sissinghurst Great Dixter and Beth Chatto’s Garden Visit gardens of Wales including Bodant Garden and Powis Castle
Included highlights: 14 nights cruising Laos aboard the RV Grande Marine 46 meals, airport transfers, tipping & port charges Thailand See Roosevelt’s former home & garden Visit the Vanderbilt Mansion at Hyde Park Travel along the Erie Canal & Thousand Islands
3
Neeethe therland erland ds
Auckland
Vietnam
Angkor Wat Cambodia 7 Siem Reap Mekong Mekong River Tonle Sap River Cruise Kampong Chhnang My Tho Saigon Phnom Penh (Ho Chi Cai Be Minh City) Tan Chau Sa Dec
England 4
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Queenstown Milford Sound 2 1
Christchurch
2
Normandy
Dunedin
BTNZ11
Mekong River Tropical Plants & Culture Cruise
New Zealand Garden & Sights
Departing 3 February & 3 March 2014
Included highlights: 9 nights outstanding accommodation Service of an expert Botanical Guide & Coach Captain 22 meals & airport transfer Tour private gardens in Queenstown Visit Ayrlies and Eden Garden in Auckland Explore gardens of Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains including Trott’s Garden
Included highlights: 7 nights cruising aboard the luxury RV AmALotus Visit the floating markets in Cai Be Explore a tropical fruit garden & nursery in Vinh Long Take a guided tour of Sa Dec Learn about the tropical plants from your Botanical Guide
Departing 7 November 2013
Call Botanica on 1300 305 202 for your free colour brochure or visit www.botanica.travel
botanica An APT Company
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Dutch Gardens, Seine River & Chelsea Flower Show Departing 11 May 2014 Included highlights: 7 night cruise aboard the luxurious ms AmALegro Aalsmeer Flower market & Keukenhof Gardens Seine River cruise through Normandy Visit the Chelsea Flower Show Clivedon & Savill Gardens Explore Monets Garden at Giverny Visit Malmaison
Register today for your free colour Botanica brochure. Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss/Dr: ������������������������������������������������������� Address: ����������������������������������������������������������������� State:����������������������� Postcode: ������������������������������������ Phone: ������������������������������������������������������������������ Email: ������������������������������������������������������������������� Please send completed form to: Botanica World Discoveries Level 4, 1230 Nepean Highway, Cheltenham, VIC 3192 Our Gardens
Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd ABN 44 004 684 619 Lic. No. 30112 MKT11756
31
Yates_winter13_Layout 1 21/05/13 10:13 AM Page 2
What’s new from Dynamic Lifter PLUS range now in 7kg size Yates Dynamic Lifter PLUS range – three organic-based plant foods boosted with added nutrients and blended to suit special groups of plants – was first introduced in 1.5kg bags. Now, because of popular demand, the three variants are available in an economical, 7kg size. • Dynamic Lifter PLUS Vegie Food is perfect for feeding all types of home grown herbs and vegetables. • Dynamic Lifter PLUS Fruit Food is ideal for all fruiting plants, especially citrus. It produces richer, juicier and more abundant crops. • Dynamic Lifter PLUS Flower Food enhances flower growth and development and is great for promoting show-stopping rose blooms and all other flowers.
Yates Vegie Growing competition inspires a new career
Yates Clonex Red Rooting Hormone Gel for hardwood cuttings Late autumn and winter is the time to take hardwood cuttings. Popular plants such as roses, wisteria, grapes and hydrangeas are some of the varieties that can be propagated at this time of year. Making a cutting from leafless, deciduous plant material means that there’s much less chance of the cutting drying out before it forms roots. And chances of success are further improved with the use of a rooting hormone. Yates new Clonex Red Rooting Hormone Gel has been specifically formulated for promoting healthy root growth in hardwood cuttings. As well as encouraging root development, Clonex Red seals and protects the cutting, preventing the entry of disease. The thick gel adheres firmly to the base of the cutting while, at the same time, supplying hormones and vitamins that promote and protect young root tissue. Added nutrients, including trace elements, further help to encourage rapid root development. Clonex Red is simple to use, requires no mixing and is far more effective than liquids or powders because it cannot splash or blow about. Clonex Red gel will remain in contact with the stem right through the rooting period.
www.yates.com.au
Celebrating 125 years in the Australian garden
In recent years Yates has sponsored a number of Growing Challenges for members of its online Garden Clubs in Australia and New Zealand. When New Zealander Sarah O’Neil entered these challenges in 2010 and 2011, she wrote extensive blogs about her gardening experiences. And, to her delight, Sarah’s third entry won her the major $1000 prize. Sarah admits that she was a novice when she started gardening. She was equipped with little more than her enthusiasm and a well-thumbed Yates Garden Guide. But, as time went on, not only did Sarah find she was learning how to garden, she discovered she was developing a talent for writing. When Sarah and her husband Tom (aka Hubby the Ungardener) realised that her output over the three Yates challenges totalled more than 130,000 words, Tom approached Yates to ask if Sarah could use those words to create an online book. Yates did better than that by offering to support the publication of the book through HarperCollins. The Good Life, which was released earlier this year, follows Sarah’s gardening journey, chronicling her successes and failures along the way in a warm, friendly and chatty style. Sarah’s achievement is even more impressive when one learns that she is the mother of two young boys and that she was diagnosed with MS a few weeks before the birth of her second son. The Good Life by Sarah O’Neil, published by HarperCollins NZ,is available in both Australia and New Zealand.