Planting & Growing

For many of us the idea of having a large garden seems a distant dream. Many of us live in a house or unit with limited outdoor room, we rent or we just don’t have the time to garden on a large scale.  Potted Gardens are our reality.   I love the look of aged terracotta pots in the garden …

Are you tired of plain, green murraya or English box hedges? How about a hedge with a difference that creates a talking point at barbecues and inspires the envy of your neighbours? These little beauties are reliable, fast growing hedging plants that are sure to grab the spotlight.   Metrosideros ‘Fiji Fire’ This tough performer is excellent for hedges up to …

Unused sloping backyards, reduced mobility and better control over soil structure are some of the many benefits to installing raised garden beds. The answers to the following questions exemplify why raised beds can be a really good idea. Why can’t I grow anything in my soil? Unless you are blessed with an abundance of deep, rich, volcanic soil in your …

As gardeners, most of us are fully accustomed to growing plants in containers or directly in the ground, but for some who lack the generosity of garden space, growing plants can often be a struggle with space restrictions, difficult corners to tackle or an overabundance of tree cover to block out sunlight. Well what may seem like obstacles should possibly …

One of the first fruits which come to mind when we think of summer is the fleshy, juicy mango with its golden sunny flesh tempting us. If you have a little room in your back garden, you won’t be disappointed planting one of these divine trees and raiding its offerings. Planting Plant young mango trees in a sunny position in the garden, where there is …

My favourite place to garden is on the eastern side. It is truly a pleasure. Eastern facing gardens usually get morning sun, which usually isn’t as harsh as our afternoon sun. I find many plants that thrive in full sun conditions also thrive here in half shade especially plants that sometimes get their flowers burnt in full sun conditions. Selecting …

Mark Brandon loves to wander far and wide in search of get tips and inspirations for home improvement. He is a contributor for Safe and Sound Property Inspections and shares his expertise to other blogs as well. Below, he shares some tips on how to add some drama on Garden Design. Whether you live in the countryside or the cities, …

by Michael Marriott of David Austin Roses Careful choice of varieties – is fragrance important; health; shape of flower; shape and size of plant? Wise choice of planting position – roses do not like too much competition at the roots and all like at least a few hours of sun a day, especially in the morning. Thorough soil preparation – mix …

The potato originated in the Andes Mountains where it was cultivated by Pre-Columbian Indians. It was taken to Spain by the Conquistadors, but because of its association with poisonous plants (it is a member of the nightshade family) the potato didn’t come to prominence in Europe until introduced into Ireland in the 17th century. Being so nutritious and easily grown in poor soil, …

A well positioned, healthy tree can bring a lush, leafy ambience to your home or work environment as well as protection from the elements. The following check list will ensure you choose the best tree for your situation. 1. Take a hike Look at trees growing in your own neighbourhood. This will give you an idea of how trees will …