Stress in plants is very similar to stress in people. When we are under stress our immune systems are weakened and we are more likely to catch colds and have other health issues. Stress in humans comes with side effects, such as being unable to get a good night’s sleep; rushed meals or fast foods […]
March is the first calendar month of autumn and a great time to garden. We are about two months past the longest day and just about four months before the shortest day, and one can certainly notice the shortening hours of daylight. This time of the year brings the autumn rain which a number of areas […]
Sustainability is a buzzword which permeates flower shows these days – and this year’s Ellerslie International Flower Show is no exception. Waterwise planting, water recycling, intelligent use of water, low-energy gardens and restoring soil nutrients are all key international garden trends and many of these concepts will be seen in two exhibition gardens at […]
Summer Revival Having just enjoyed the most spectacular holiday weather in years, it would seem churlish to lament its effect on the garden. After all, that jaded, post-holiday look is easily remedied. We’ll have to wait a while for perfect autumn planting weather. In the meantime, watering, feeding and grooming are the big three for […]
This month we discuss what to plant in January, how to save seeds, offer tips on saving water and tell you why you shouldn’t worry about slaters in your garden. Seedlings to plant in January Beetroot, Carrot, Celery, Climbing beans, Cucumber, Dwarf beans, Lettuce, Leeks, Kumara, Parsnip, Pepper, Potato, Pumpkin, Radish, Rhubarb, Silverbeet Saving seeds Seed saving is the […]
After a typically wet Christmas, summer is just beginning. It’s not too late to plant those colourful flowering plants that will sizzle their way through the hottest months, well into autumn. If you want your flowers to stand out, steer clear of too many pastel shades. Summer’s hottest oranges, yellows and reds hold their own […]
Worms are the most efficient method of recycling household waste into high value nutrients for the garden. Having your own worm farm is a great way to turn your kitchen scraps into liquid plant food and worm casts (virmicasts) which can then be incorporated into your gardens or containers.
Well gardeners, the year is quickly drawing to an end and the gardens are bursting with produce and flowers planted in the spring. It is a time that you are rewarded for your gardening efforts with produce and flowers to grace your home and table. It is also the right time to plant up in […]
