Native to South America, Tamarillos (or tree-tomatoes as my grandmother called them), were introduced to NZ in the late 1800′s. The small, large-leafed trees thrive in moderate NZ conditions – and need shelter and light, well-drained soil. The fruit have remained a popular seasonal treat due to their unique flavour, nutritional qualities and attractive colour. [...]
I have to admit I’ve never been that crazy about parsnips. I must have been put off these beige, carrot-shaped veg as a child, along with swedes and turnips – all boiled to death and criminally unseasoned. (Not my mother’s cooking by the way!). I do try to be good and eat all my veggies [...]
Asparagus is a favorite seasonal vegetable for many gardeners and gourmets. Bountiful too – once established, mature crowns produce many delicious spears each spring. I spoke to a elderly lady gardener recently who told me that she had a bed of asparagus that is now 30 years old and still producing an abundance of spears [...]
We’ve all heard how dark green leafy vege are packed with nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, folate, iron, calcium and fibre. The even better news is – they’re delicious in soups, healthy smoothies or as a side dish. If you haven’t got some sivlerbeet, spinach, coloured chard or kale ready to pick [...]
Leeks are a fantastic winter vegetable. Milder and sweeter than onions, they are great in soups, quiches, or the odd naughty pie! This is real comfort food – serve with steamed broccoli, sauteed spinach/silverbeet or a salad to turn this treat into a hearty family meal. Thanks to foodlovers.co.nz for this classic recipe. Chicken And [...]
Strawberries June is the first month of winter, and happily the month that most types of strawberry plants become available in garden centres. Strawberries were originally a woodland plant and the modern strawberries (such as Pajaro), have been bred from these wild varieties. It is important to remember this when you come to plant strawberries [...]
Weather-wise, there’s no doubt it is winter. But take a stroll in some gardens, you could be forgiven for thinking it was spring. In a garden that’s planted with winter colour in mind, these cold wet months are far from dull. If your winter outlook needs brightening, then a strategically placed flowering shrub or tree [...]
The winter planting season’s stock of the latest and greatest rose varieties arrives in garden centres in early June. Loads more are available via mail order and the internet. If you buy bare root roses, carefully remove the packaging, trim any damaged roots, then soak in a bucket of water while you prepare the ground. [...]
