Planting & Growing

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 …

Once you have brought home your seedlings to plant, here are some tips to ensure successful growth to maturity. Seedlings grow quickly and will outgrow their pot and the starter soil they were planted in, so transplant seedlings into their final location within a day or two after purchasing. When gardening and using soil products, always read the health warning …

To seed or not seed, that is the question? It’s that time of year, you are getting ready to fill your garden with annual flowers or with seasonal vegetables and herbs. But what do you do, do you sow seeds or plant seedlings?  When you look at the costings, yes, seeds look the far more economical way. However, what about …

The scent of lemon is refreshing, sharp and clean. When crushing a leaf from a lemon tree, oils are released which create the familiar lemon fragrance that we know so well. Check out our list of the easiest lemon-scented foliage on offer. Lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora) A deciduous, woody shrub to 2.5m tall, flowering in spring. The leaves have an …

  Ground cover plants are an essential accessory in the garden. Plant them in rockeries, under trees and in garden beds to cover bare patches of earth as a natural mulch alternative. Floriferous groundcovers Calibrachoas: If you want serious colour and wow factor, you can not go past the range of Calibrachoas that are readily available in stores. Flowering almost …

So you have decided your plant needs a different home in your garden. A little bit of prep work will ensure your plant doesn’t suffer shock from the move.   What is transplant shock? Many plants suffer from transplant shock more often than you’d think. In fact, transplant shock in plants is an unknown topic for many gardeners. When uprooting …

Coastal gardening can be challenging, but a little research and advice from your local garden centre staff will go a long way in creating a successful garden. There are several factors that need to be considered before selecting your plants.   Coastal Soil Type No matter where you live, knowing your soil type is a key ingredient to successful gardening. …

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 …