2020-11-01 Gardening Australia

WATER

need water. Importantly, these areas are ABOVE, AND LEFT PHOTOS COURTESY OF HARDIE GRANT PUBLISHING COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS COMPETITION OPEN TO AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS ONLY. STARTS 12/10/20 AT 00:01 (AEDT)
shaded so as not to create hot spaces, Drip-line irrigation AND CLOSES 15/11/20 AT 23:59 (AEDT). FIVE WINNERS WILL EACH RECEIVE A COPY OF THE SUSTAINABLE HOUSE HANDBOOK BY JOSH BYRNE (HARDIE GRANT BOOKS), VALUED AT
and are bordered by plantings to create is well suited to row $39.99. TOTAL PRIZE POOL VALUE IS $199.95. ENTRIES JUDGED ON 17/11/20 AT 2PM AT NEXTMEDIA, LEVEL 8, 205 PACIFIC HWY, ST LEONARDS NSW 2065. THE JUDGES’ DECISION IS
the perception of lushness. crops in the vegetable FINAL AND NO CORRESPONDENCE WILL BE ENTERED INTO. PRIZE SENT TO THE ADDRESS PROVIDED ON THE ENTRY. FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS AT GARDENINGAUSTRALIA.COM.AU.
patch, as well as PRIVACY POLICY AVAILABLE AT NEXTMEDIA.COM.AU. PROMOTER IS NEXTMEDIA PTY LTD; ABN 84 128 805 970; 205 PACIFIC HIGHWAY, ST LEONARDS NSW 2065.
soil conditioners densely planted
shrub beds; regularly
To improve the water-holding capacity adding compost to
of our sandy soil, we’ve added soil the soil improves its
conditioners. Generous amounts of moisture-holding
compost were initially applied to garden capacity, nutrient
beds to increase the organic matter. retention and
This approach is beneficial for all soils, microbial activity.
including clay, where it helps to improve
structure and boost microbial activity. WIN JOSH’S BOOK
We’ve also added bentonite clay to the
vegetable garden and fruit tree areas We have five copies of The Sustainable
to further improve water and nutrient House Handbook by Josh Byrne to give
retention for these hungry plants. way. Published by Hardie Grant Books,

We mulch all areas regularly to keep the ach book is valued at $39.99. To enter
plant roots and soil life cool, retain moisture he competition, tell us in 25 words or
and suppress weeds. In most areas, coarse ess about an interesting way that you
pine bark mulch with irregular particle save or manage water. Write your name,
sizes is used, as it allows rain and air to address, daytime contact number and
pass through and is less likely to blow entry on the back of an envelope, and
away. Pine bark mulch is also long-lasting. send it to Josh’s Book Competition,
G rdening Australia, nextmedia, Locked Bag 5555, St Leonards NSW
Lupin mulch, which is made from the 1590, or email [email protected] with ‘Josh’s Book’ in
by-product of local lupin crops, has been the subject line by November 15. The most creative entries win.
applied to the productive areas, including
the vegetable beds and fruit trees, where
it is an excellent source of organic matter
for building up soil and providing hungry
plants with nutrients. Lupin mulch breaks
down quickly, so it needs to be topped up
regularly and is best for protected areas.

Other suitable mulches for these types
of plants and protected productive areas
include lucerne, pea hay and sugarcane
mulch. As always, it makes sense to use
products that can be sourced locally.

We apply pelletised poultry manure and
rock-mineral-based trace elements to
productive and exotic ornamental plantings
on a seasonal basis, and continue to
improve the soil with homemade compost.
The vegetables and fruit trees receive
regular applications of liquid kelp and
fish emulsion, however, the native garden
beds don’t receive regular fertilising now
that they are established. GA

50 N OV E M B E R 2020 G A RD ENIN G AUS TR A L I A



rockery reboot
Pretty, compact and very photogenic, rockeries are enjoying a revival.

NOEL BURDETTE shows how he built one in his new gardenemember the rockery, that eclectic During this year of lockdowns and more
time spent at home, making a rockery is
arrangement of boulders, rocks a great project to do with your family or

Rand alpine plants? They were big
going for them. A rockery can be a solution
for a sloping site, reducing run-off of soil
and water. With a few rocks, some compost,

in Victorian times, and again in the a bunch of plants and a little creativity, you housemates. And the ‘drama in miniature’

’60s and ’70s. You may have built a rockery can be as fancy or as modest as you like. It’s created by little flowers set against the heft

yourself, or watched your parents make one. an eye-catching way to showcase smaller of rocks and boulders makes for striking

Pretty yet also practical, rockeries might plants, such as dainty flowers or succulents, photos. No wonder rockeries have caught

just be on the rise again. They have a lot that might be overwhelmed elsewhere. the eye of Instagrammers!

52 N O V E M B E R 2 02 0 G A R D E N I N G AU S T R A L I A

GARDEN LESSONS

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT
An iconic garden feature of the ’60s
and ’70s, the rockery is working its way
back into the hearts of garden lovers,
providing a quirky and eye-catching
way to showcase eclectic collections
of smaller plants such as succulents
and dainty owers; the steeply sloping
front garden of Noel Burdette’s new
home when he moved in was generally
uninviting and desperately in need
of a face lift; with the rockery and
surrounding gardens in bloom, Noel’s
makeover captures the attention of
passers-by, and there’s a bench for
people to sit and delight in the space

PHOTOS NOEL BURDETTE new garden, new rockery

When I relocated to New Zealand last year,
I discovered a selection of unusual rocks
(calcareous mudstone concretions, for the
geologically inclined) scattered around my
new garden. Having ripped out a bed of
overgrown roses and weedy agapanthus,
and with a new picket fence, I decided to
put the rocks to good use by creating a
rockery. This style of garden allows me to
experiment with plants I haven’t yet had
the opportunity to grow, while not straying
too far from my love of the cottage garden.

My site faces west, and receives full sun
from late morning to early evening during
summer. It’s often battered by strong winds.
The area is grassed, and on a 35-degree
slope. The slope is favourable, because

G A R D EN IN G AU S T R A L I A N OV E M B E R 2020 53

GARDEN LESSONS

drainage is crucial with a rockery. But the
soil is clay, so I worked in some sharp sand,
gypsum and two grades of pumice stone.

Next, I arranged the rocks to look natural
and random (not lined up, like a retaining
wall), and to provide a mix of contours and
cracks for the plants to grow in front of,
out of, and between. I added a final, thin
layer of light compost so it could work its
way between the pumice stone and provide
somewhere for the plants’ roots to develop.

Then it was time to plant. A small
rockery is the perfect opportunity to enjoy
bulbs such as ixia, beautiful Rhodohypoxis
species and miniature daffodils, which
will naturalise and multiply to fill up the
crevices. I also included herbaceous
hardy geraniums, erodium, campanula,
gypsophila, perennial nemesia, scented
pelargoniums, calocephalus, different
types of thyme, dianthus, arabis, Iris
chrysographes and verbascum.

For stronger, year-round, evergreen
structure, consider dwarf conifers, or
non-aggressive groundcovers such as
alpine phlox, or Cerastium tomentosum
with its shimmering silver foliage followed
by masses of white flowers in summer.

If alpine species are troublesome in your
climate zone (some require true winter
cold, for instance, which you don’t get in
a lot of coastal areas), focus instead on
succulents such as sedum, echeveria, aloe,
crassula and sempervivum that will tightly
hug the ground and provide an almost
identical effect without the heartache.

Once established, a rockery is low
maintenance. To keep the edge free of
weeds and lawn, use a spade to dig out a
perimeter and separate the garden from
the lawn. Alternatively, install an edging
product, such as heavy-duty plastic held
in place with pegs. Another option is
to place rocks around the perimeter to
create a natural edge. Promptly remove
any weeds that do spring up, before they
have a chance to set seed. Don’t spray
herbicides, and avoid organic mulches
such as sugarcane, as they will destroy
the visual effect of the rockery.

54 N OV E MB E R 2020 GARDENING AUSTR ALIA





PHOTOS NOEL BURDETTE, ISTOCK STEP BY STEP

BUILD A ROCKERY

1 SELECT your site. Most rockeries do best with at
least six hours of direct sunshine a day, but if this is
not possible, ensure you choose plants well suited to
semi-shade conditions. A sunny slope is good, but by
addressing drainage with sharp sand, gravel and rocks,
a rockery can also be created on a flat spot beside a
driveway or pathway or to the side of a pool or pond.
2 WEED the area thoroughly, and remove any roots
or unsightly stumps.
3 BUY or collect your rocks. Aim for an assortment
of shapes and sizes. If you don’t have the rocks you
need on your own property, look for them in landscape
yards. Never remove rocks from native bushland.
4 IMPROVE heavy soils by digging in sharp sand,
gypsum and two grades of pumice stone, scoria or
pea gravel (left, top). This helps to emulate the natural
terrain in which many rockery plants have adapted to
grow, and aids air flow around the crown of each plant,
reducing the chance of rot. Although many rockery
plants don’t require vast, open areas of soil, they do
need sharp drainage and oxygen around their roots.
This is what gives them ‘the edge’ over many regular
garden plants. They thrive in smaller spaces where
most other plants would struggle.
5 ARRANGE the rocks to create a variety of levels,
heights, cracks and contours. Aim for a natural,
random look, and avoid straight lines.
6 ADD a layer of light compost (left, centre) and let it
settle into the gaps and cracks. You might choose to
wait for the foundations of your rockery to settle over
a couple of weeks before you start planting.
7 PLANT UP the rockery (left, bottom). Position taller
species, such as dwarf conifers or dwarf acers, at
the back. You should be able to view all the plants
and rocks at a glance. To save money, fill in crevices
with small seasonal annuals such as alyssum, petunia
or lobelia in the first year. These will provide quick
colour for a low cost, and give you time to invest in
longer-term species or wait until seasonal bulbs or
specific perennials are available.
8 FINISH with a layer of pumice stone or scoria,
which functions as mulch and contrasts with the fine
foliage and details of the plants. The lighter the colour
of the stone, the better it shows off the plants.

GARDEN LESSONS

10 great plants for a rockery
Look for drought-tolerant plants that 6Cushion bush
hug the ground tightly, preventing (Scleranthus biflorus)
weeds from taking hold in your rockery. Australian native naturally found among

Here are some plants that work well. rocks. Evergreen, tight, cushion-like foliage

1 Pinks, dianthus (Dianthus spp.) creates an amazing effect. Frost hardy.
Flowering from spring into autumn, 15cm up to 1m
dianthus (top) come in many colours (white,
pink, scarlet, lavender, bicolour) and some 7Perennial nemesia
Long-term flowers (spring to autumn)
are perfumed. Low maintenance, with only in a variety of colours. Easy-care plants that

deadheading required. They grow in most need only light deadheading, and are highly

climates but excel where summer is dry. attractive to bees and butterflies. They

30cm 60cm grow best where summer is not too wet.

2Snow in summer 30cm 35cm
(Cerastium tomentosum)
This silver groundcover spills over and 8Thyme spp.
A favourite in the herb garden, thyme
around rock crevices and retaining walls. (second from bottom) is happiest positioned

It is grown primarily for its foliage, yet where it can absorb heat radiating from

blooms profusely with frothy flowers in nearby rocks. Most species have fragrant

the warmer months. It grows well in most foliage that can be used in the kitchen,

climates that aren’t too wet in summer. and all produce masses of small pink or

20cm up to 1m white flowers in summer. Types include

3Black mondo grass common, lemon, caraway, golden, turkey,
(Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’) pizza, chicken, white and pink chintz. Ideal
The striking near-black foliage (second for hot, dry locations. Drought tolerant.

10–30cm

from top) contrasts strongly with other up to 1m (depending on species)

plants. It produces small pinnacles of white 9Rhodohypoxis spp.
flowers in summer, but not in abundance. Attractive to butterflies, these small,
It’s perfect for lower parts of the rockery,

as it can tolerate moist soil. Frost hardy. clump-forming herbaceous perennials

25cm 40cm come in a range of colours, from hot-pink

4 Houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum) to white. They like similar conditions to
This small, clumping succulent (centre) black mondo grass. They multiply quickly
to form large, naturalistic clumps, and

quickly fills any gaps to give the garden a require no maintenance. Short-term plants

mature look, and wraps around rocks to in hot climates. Best suited to cool zones.

visually soften hard landscaping. It needs 20cm 40cm

to be kept drier in summer. Frost hardy. 10Dwarf spring bulbs
25cm 40cm Small spring bulbs, including dwarf
daffodils, are perfect for planting into tight
5Cushion bush spaces, where they will multiply and flower
(Calocephalus brownii) each spring. Babiana, freesia and sparaxis
An Australian native with wiry, silver foliage,

and small, yellow, button flowers in spring are good for warm climates, while dwarf PHOTOS ISTOCK

to summer. Excellent textural plant. Very narcissus, grape hyacinth (bottom) and

drought tolerant, but dislikes high humidity. ixia perform better in cooler, drier zones.

50cm 50cm 20–60cm 30cm

56 N OV E M B E R 2020 G ARDENING AUS TR ALIA

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AT HOME WITH JACKIE

safe haven
When bushfire strikes, our wildlife needs help

– but what are the right and wrong things

to do? JACKIE FRENCH shares what she

has learnt over decades of caring for animals
The first bushfire to threaten us
last summer came from the west, out road verges in the future. Food and 6. Make water available. Water must be
in November. By mid-January, we water are heavy to carry on foot, so the fresh and accessible, with plenty of access.
perfect place is a drivable paddock or near Echidnas can’t reach up and over even

were ringed by fires, with birds a bush track that’s rarely used by vehicles. small barriers, and wombats drink slowly.

and animals fleeing to the conservation 3. Move the station regularly. About The koalas you see being helped with drink

refuge on our property. In Australia, an three weeks into the emergency last year, bottles in touching photos may get water in

estimated 18.6 million hectares burnt last I noticed the smell of built-up droppings their lungs, which can be lethal. We topped

summer, with a loss of perhaps three billion and urine. We moved the station, and up our water ponds from a drip-irrigation

animals, many starving or dying of thirst. kept moving it every three days. I also put system and cleaned them out daily. Your

Thousands of people offered to help, to down hay to absorb the waste, then raked local wildlife organisation can give you

feed and water starving wildlife in those it away each day – mostly (sometimes excellent easy-to-assemble designs for

tragic days. Sadly, the wrong kind of help you just need to do the best you can). waters stations. These just need to be

can lead to more deaths. So how can you 4. Beware of feral animals. Rabbits, topped up daily and scrubbed weekly.

set up a food and water station for wildlife? goats, foxes, feral cats, deer and other 7. Have a sense of wonder. Feeding

1. Make a commitment. Don’t start a food feral animals may come to the station, too. and watering wildlife is hot and heavy.

and water station unless you can visit at Cats and foxes kill wildlife, and ferals can Sometimes it feels endless. As drought

least once a day, or arrange for someone spread disease. I was able to observe our or fires worsen, you may find yourself

to visit, or organise a daily roster. Weekend food and water station from the house, catering for hundreds of animals. But

visits aren’t enough. Food rots or ferments, and take action with live traps, but we I remember the night in January when a

and water can grow toxic algae. Worse, also use motion-sensing cameras to help small black wombat crept starving and

the station will attract wildlife from many control feral pests. Become familiar with desperate through our garden, collapsing

kilometres away, and if the food and water droppings and animal tracks. 10m from the water. I held up a bowl to

is suddenly no longer replenished, the area 5. Provide the right food. Ask your her and she drank, then slowly, very slowly,

around it won’t be able to support all the local licensed wildlife organisation which crept towards the food. The animals all

animals. They would have been better off animals you’ll be feeding, and what foods stepped back to let her through – stroppy

trying to reach an area where they could they recommend. In times of widespread wombats, wallabies and many others.

survive without any help. Be prepared to destruction, it’s impossible to give wildlife Every night and every day at the feeding

maintain the food and water station for their usual foods. Luckily, starving animals station brought wonder. It was an honour

months, or even years. While some areas will usually eat food that’s strange to them. and a privilege to help, as it will be for as

have regenerated from fire, others are still Unluckily, the wrong food can kill or cause long as we are needed. GA

bare ground, and some are still in drought. major health problems, or it can be lethal

2. Choose a safe location. The easiest in the long term. Foods for some native CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT
place to replenish a bush feeding station animals can be found at the supermarket, Mother and baby mountain brush-tailed
is by a road – and that’s the worst place. such as carrots, sweet potatoes, celery or possums tucking into some fruit; koalas
Animals may be run over after they’ve fed corn, and various processed pellets may have very specific food needs; the quokka
or while travelling to the station. Worse, you be suitable. Other animals need plant food is a small wallaby; echidnas need a water
will teach them that food and water can be that might come from local gardens. Jam source at ground level, as they can’t reach
associated with roads, and they may seek sandwiches are never on the menu. ASK. over a barrier; a land mullet lizard eating
birdseed; kookaburras are just one bird
species that needs help during bushfires.

58 N OV E M B E R 2020 G ARDENING AUS TR ALIA

Every bit helps

Many species, including birds,
seek refuge in suburban areas during

bushfires. Birds also spread seeds
in their droppings, which helps burnt
areas recover. A simple birdbath kept

filled with clean water, along with
nesting boxes, fruit and flowers, can

help birds survive. Find out which
species in your area need
protection, and what
help they need.

PHOTOS ISTOCK

thabeudcekneteli’sst

CRADLE MOUNTAIN
& DOVE LAKE

in Tasmania, Australia

TRAVEL

LEFT TO RIGHT FROM MAIN
Cradle Mountain and the banks of
Dove Lake are ablaze with colour

during the ‘turning of the fagus’,
when the endemic beech changes
from green to orange; keep an eye

out for wombats grazing; it’s an
easy walk to the old boathouse.

The Tasmanian wilderness o ers a lot – grand views, An improved viewing shelter at Dove
botanical treasures, and sometimes even wombats Lake is also under construction. As well as
in the snow, writes JENNIFER STACKHOUSE offering updated amenities, the modern
building, which will occupy the old bitumen
PHOTOS ALAMY, GEORGIE McKIE, ISTOCK A visit to Cradle Mountain and the 1545m-high, cradle-shaped, doleritic car park, promises glorious views of the
Dove Lake had long been mountain is tranquil Dove Lake. mountain and lake. Shelter is an important
on my bucket list. But despite consideration in this part of the world with
my many trips to Tasmania, There are lots of reasons to visit Cradle its changeable mountain weather.
it took an interstate move to a property Mountain: majestic views, native alpine
with a view of the famous mountain flora, cute animals and birds, and snow, A well-made path with long stretches
before I actually got there. to name but a few. The good news is you of boardwalk circumnavigates Dove Lake.
don’t have to be a super-fit hiker to get This 6km walk takes two to three hours,
Located in the Tasmanian Wilderness there. Until recently, those with a Parks and there are plenty of spots to sit and
World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain in Pass could drive to the edge of Dove Lake, take in the view. There are several steep
the island’s north-west is about an hour’s and park. Now, parking is restricted, so parts with steps, but for the most part
drive – steep and winding – from the small access is via a frequent shuttle bus from the track is level and easy to walk.
town of Sheffield, where I live. Set beneath the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre.
If you don’t want to do a long, energetic
walk, the short stroll to the old boathouse
allows you to enjoy the glorious views,

G A R D E N I N G A U S T R A L I A N O V E M B E R 2 02 0 61

TRAVEL

photograph the reflection of the mountain in NEED TO KNOW WHILE YOU ARE THERE PHOTOS RON McKIE, ISTOCK
the glassy lake, and soak up the atmosphere.
Part of Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair Kaydale Lodge Gardens
Cradle Mountain is also part of a six-day National Park, Cradle Mountain is about
hike, the Overland Track. There are many a two-hour drive from Launceston or An 80-minute drive from Cradle
short and steep walks to explore from the Queenstown, or 90 minutes from Burnie. Mountain, this well-established
base of the mountain, too. Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake are open cold-climate garden in Nietta,
year-round, but may be affected by road towards the coast, has massed
It’s easy to drive to Cradle Mountain now, closures due to snow at any time. Stop rare bulbs, peonies and maples.
but opening up the area for tourism was no at Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre (4057 The property also has a tea room
easy matter. Botanist Gustav Weindorfer Cradle Mountain Road, open 9am–4.30pm and country house accommodation.
saw the potential for tourism when he daily) to pay for park access and to take kaydalelodge.com.au
visited the mountain in 1909. He lobbied for the shuttle bus to Dove Lake. It’s generally
the creation of a national park in the region, colder than elsewhere, so bring a warm, Sheffield township
and built its first accommodation, Waldheim waterproof jacket. Other essentials include
Chalet, along with a perilous 13km track walking shoes, sunscreen, water and food On the way to Cradle Mountain
to get there from the main road. Today, (there’s currently no food at Dove Lake). At from Launceston, it’s well worth
Waldheim Cabins, a replica of the chalet, the time of printing, the Tasmanian border stopping at ‘the town of murals’ to
offers rustic accommodation at Dove Lake. was closed to visitors due to COVID-19. GA enjoy works such as Stillness and
Warmth, which features Gustav
The peak time to visit is autumn, when Weindorfer, and the charming
Tasmania’s endemic, deciduous beech, Daffodil Show (for an index of
commonly called fagus (Nothofagus gunnii), murals, visit sheffieldmurals.com).
is changing from green to yellow and Sheffield also has cafes, plenty
russet, and the mountainside is splashed of local accommodation, and the
with colour. You’ll also see fascinating Kentish Visitor Information Centre
lichen, moss and fungi, clumps of button (5 Pioneer Crescent).
grass, and King Billy pine. In summer, the sheffieldtasmania.com.au
area is bright with the tall, flowering stems
of Richea pandanifolia, R. x curtisiae and Cradle Forest Inn
other endemic species.
This rustic alehouse and grill in
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Moina is a handy place for lunch
Beyond the Overland Track, the rugged on the way to Cradle Mountain,
Du Cane Range in the south of Cradle or dinner on your return. Chalets
Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park and suites are also available.
attracts experienced bushwalkers and cradleforestinn.com.au
mountain climbers; moss-covered logs
and trees give the Knyvet Falls Track, For more information,
near Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, visit parks.tas.gov.au
an ‘enchanted forest’ feel; the vibrant

owers of endemic Richea x curtisiae.

62 N O V E M B E R 2 02 0 G A R D E N I N G A U S T R A L I A

Garden tours around Australia CREDITS: Jumjum Garden © Trisha Dixon; Michael Cooke Garden Design. Photo by Brigid Arnott

HILLS AND VALES OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA PRIVATE GARDENS OF THE NSW CENTRAL COAST

Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale The Hawkesbury and the Yarramalong Valley
with Genevieve Jacobs | 12–20 November 2020 (9 days) with Elizabeth Swane | 21–24 October 2020 (4 days)

Uncover the rich offerings of South Australia’s gardens, Explore stunning private gardens nestled between
orchards and farms, and admire sweeping landscapes the pretty waterways and pristine national parks

awash with springtime colour. of the NSW Central Coast.

GARDENS OF THE NSW CENTRAL WEST GARDENS OF THE NATIONAL CAPITAL

Orange, Bathurst, Cowra and Canowindra with Genevieve Jacobs
with Elizabeth Swane | 02–08 November 2020 (7 days) 06–09 November 2020 (4 days)

Gain exclusive access to the colourful gardens of Discover striking private and public gardens of the
historic private estates and country homesteads Australian Capital Territory in their springtime bloom

of the NSW Central West region. and meet their passionate owners.

For detailed information visit renaissancetours.com.au, call 1300 727 095 or contact your travel agent.

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NOVGARa nEMBE DnENe
More than 50 jobs to do in your action planner
words JUDY HORTON

YOUR
PLANNER

sTcpOaPrJOienB fg bulbs

When spring bulbs such as Arabian star flower (pictured) finish blooming, continue I ’s time to...
to liquid-fertilise every fortnight until the leaves die down. Then decide whether Remove spent roses (above) to
you’re going to leave the bulbs in place, especially if they flowered well, or lift them. maintain a tidy display and encourage
If you want to use that garden space for summer plantings, lift the bulbs and store early repeat flowering
them in a cool, dry, dark place. In warmer areas, cold-loving bulbs, such as hyacinth,
tulip and crocus, benefit from being lifted now, and chilled in the fridge for a couple Cut back ground-covering plants
of months or so from late summer or early autumn before replanting. If your bulbs that are spreading onto and shading
aren’t flowering as generously as they used to, it’s a good idea to thin crowded clumps. sections of lawn
To do this, carefully dig out the bulbs, then transplant them to other parts of the garden,
give them away, or store them for autumn planting. Keep up watering to newly planted
perennials, especially on warmer days
PHOTOS ISTOCK, LUKE SIMON buy & plant Woau ch
Select and plant advanced annual
PETUNIAS CONTROL DISEASES flower seedlings so they’ll be in bloom
AFFECTING ROSES by Christmas
Petunias are one of the most
generous and reliable flowers for November is a top month for rose Scoop up duckweed and algae from
colour in the summer garden. The displays, but it’s also when the first garden ponds, and add it to the compost
seeds can be tricky to germinate, signs of fungal diseases, such as
so it’s easiest to buy seedlings black spot (above), rust and mildew, Detach and pot up small plantlets
– or advanced bloomers, if you’re are seen. Pick off and bin affected from echeveria, and hen and chicken
impatient – and pop them into a leaves when problems first appear, fern (Asplenium bulbiferum)
prepared garden bed or container to slow the progress of the disease.
in a sunny spot. Feed them every Fungal diseases spread on moist Remove old flowers from pieris,
two weeks with a liquid fertiliser surfaces, so water in the morning trim lightly, and get rid of any thin or
that’s suitable for flowering and avoid wetting the leaves. spindly shoots
plants. Pinch back lanky shoots,
and watch out for snails and Prune bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.)
caterpillars. Most of all, enjoy shrubs and trees after their main
the cheerful floral display. flowering to keep them tidy

Pot up a Banksia ‘Birthday Candles’
plant to decorate a sunny terrace or
paved area

Feed the lawn with a slow-release
fertiliser, and raise the mower height
so the grass leaves will be longer
and stronger in the summer heat

G A R D E N I N G AU S T R A L I A N O V E M B E R 2 02 0 67

o i now end TOMATOES

Check yourself and your pet dog for Stake tall-growing tomato varieties (far right), and
ticks after walking in bushland remove the laterals or side shoots (right) that form at the
base of leaves, to avoid congestion of stems and foliage.
Prune mock orange (Philadelphus Also pinch off any leaves that are growing near ground
spp.), weigela and maybush, shortening level, to maintain good air circulation near the base of
shoots and removing the oldest stems the plant and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. All
completely at the base tomatoes, especially tall varieties, appreciate fortnightly
applications of liquid fertiliser. Build up the soil around
Pull out tired foxglove plants before the base of the plant, as this gives more support to the
the leaves are spoiled by mites and other stem and encourages extra roots to form. Mulch around
sap-sucking pests the plant to keep the soil moisture level as even as
possible, and water regularly at ground level. When
Give privet, hawthorn and cotoneaster fruit begins to form, cover it with pest-exclusion bags
a prune to prevent the development of to protect it from fruit fly, caterpillars and wildlife.
berries and unwanted weedy seeds

Take tip cuttings of native brachyscome
daisy to grow more plants to use as a
groundcover or pot filler

Scrub scale pests off susceptible
plants such as gardenia, with an old

d in soapy water
wattle after blooming, but

back to leafless stems
s likely to reshoot
hten the summer garden
anting hot-coloured
ower varieties such
as California poppy,

zinnia, marigold
nd the ever-reliable
rgonium ‘Big Red’
tall a bee hotel (left) to
rage native bees to take
idence in your garden
move good-sized pups
g side shoots) that have
oped on agaves, then

into a well-drained mix

68 N OV E M B E R 2020 G A RDENING AUS TR A LIA

YOUR
PLANNER

sow & plant…
IN NOVEMBER
asian greens ●●

basil ●●●●●

beans (french, climbing) ●●●

beans (snake) ●● ●

beetroot ●●

broccoli ●●

cabbage ●●

capsicum, chilli ●●●●●

carrot ●●●

hTOePaJOtBpsroetteucption chives ●●

Prepare for those super-hot days by setting up frames that can support choko ●● ●
shadecloth covers when required. Plants such as newly planted seedlings or leafy
greens with tender leaves are likely to need cover on hot days. Be prepared, too, to coriander ●●
provide short-term shade for tree ferns, cycads, tropical fruit trees and any other
plants with soft new leaves yet to harden off. Protect a single vulnerable plant by cucumber ●●●●
surrounding it with three or four stakes that will be ready to hold up an old towel or
piece of sheet when needed. Old umbrellas attached to sturdy stakes can also be eggplant ●●●●●
useful as short-term shade makers. Survey the garden on hot days to see if any
areas need more permanent protection such as a pergola or vine-covered arbor. ginger ●●●●

PHOTOS ISTOCK, JESSIE PRINCE kale ● ●

kohlrabi ●●

leek ● ● ●

lettuce ●●●●

melon ●●●●

okra ● ● ● ● ●

parsnip ●●

potato ●●●

pumpkin ●●●●●

radish ●●●●

rocket ●●●

rosella ●●●●

silverbeet ●●

spring onion ●●●●

squash, zucchini ●●●●

sweet potato ●●●●

sweetcorn ●●●●●

tomato ●●●●

KEY
tropical ●

subtropical ●

arid/semi-arid ●

warm temperate ●

cold temperate ●

G A R D E N I N G AU S T R A L I A N O V E M B E R 2 02 0 69

plant giant pumpkins with kids

Edible ga de Giant pumpkins are not the best for later select the strongest seedling to
Water tomato, zucchini (above) and eating, but kids love giving them a go keep. Liquid-fertilise the plant every
pumpkin plants at ground level so the to see how big their pumpkin can grow. two weeks. Allow no more than two
leaves stay dry and are better able to Atlantic Giant (available from numerous pumpkins to develop – or, better still,
resist diseases mail-order suppliers) is the main seed only one – and provide each pumpkin
variety used for growing giant pumpkins. with a bed of free-draining sand to
Set up pheromone traps for codling sit on, to help reduce the risk of rot.
moth in apple and pear trees, and wrap Start by building a rich mound of
corrugated cardboard around the trunk compost-improved soil about 1m across As the weather gets hotter, you may
to catch migrating grubs in an open, sunny space. Sow a couple need to build a shade structure to
of seeds in the top of the mound, then prevent the sun burning your pumpkin.
Spread a compost mulch around
growing vegetables to help keep the Topip STAMP OUT
roots moist and cool during hot spells STUBBORN WEEDS

Feed passionfruit with a citrus or Make a regular date to check and deal with
rose fertiliser, water in well, then spread persistent weeds such as tradescantia (left)
a layer of mulch over the root area and nutgrass. Diligence is the key to keeping
them under control. If you forget about them,
Feel under established potato plants you’ll return to find all your hard work has
for small new potatoes that are ready been undone and the weeds have reclaimed
for you to bandicoot (dig up using fingers, their territory. Put a recurring entry in your
without disturbing the top of the plant) diary or calendar as a useful reminder.

Sow brussels sprouts in cold areas w ou wn LUNCH
to have seedlings ready for planting out
in late summer or early autumn Plant seedlings of lettuce, mustard, rocket and radish,
and within a few weeks you’ll be harvesting ingredients
Cover developing fruit clusters with for your lunchtime salads. Grow them in large pots just
pest-exclusion bags to protect them outside the back door, where you can easily pick the
from fruit fly, bats and greedy birds leaves as you need them. Nothing could be fresher!
If you’re in an even greater hurry, sow the seeds
Direct-sow seeds of climbing and of microgreens in small pots, and they’ll be
dwarf beans into well-drained soil ready to harvest in a week or so. Microgreens
of rocket, radish, watercress (right) and peas
Sow nasturtium seeds in the vegie can all be sprouted at this time of year.
bed for this plant’s pollinator-attracting
flowers, edible leaves, and green
seeds that can be pickled as ‘capers’

Build up soil and mulch around
the base of corn plants as they grow
to encourage more roots and stability

70 N O V E M B E R 2 02 0 G A R D E N I N G AU S T R A L I A

YOUR 2Ce2leYbrating
PLANNER
Waters a LARGE area up to 15 metre diameter.
seek out new salvias Average flow rate of 10 LPM.

Loved for being easy-care and flowering generously, Removable filter for dam or river water use.
ornamental salvias are stalwarts of the summer and Able to run multiple sprinklers from the same tap.
autumn garden. There are more than 900 species,
so it’s difficult to choose a favourite. Old-timers such
as Mexican bush sage (Salvia leucantha), baby sage
(S. microphylla, below) and clary sage (S. sclarea)
are widely grown, but it’s worth seeking out some of
the exciting newer varieties that can offer additional
qualities such as longer blooming, more compact
growth and interesting colours. Salvia ‘Wendy’s Wish’,
a chance seedling found in a garden in Victoria, has
led to other ‘Wish’ cultivars that are sold to raise
funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. And then
there’s ‘Black & Bloom’, ‘African Sky’, ‘Hot Lips’,
‘Amistad’ and others with names as fascinating as
their flowers. Check with your local plant supplier.

PRESSURE P.S.I 5 10 15 20 25 30 40
6.2 12 13.8 14.5 14.8 15 16
APPROX DIAMETER 4.1 6 7.3 9.1 10 10.7 13
IN METRES

USAGE L.P.M

REMOVE BRIDAL CREEPER Waters a SMALL area up to 8 metre diameter.
Average flow rate of 4 LPM.
Bridal creeper or smilax (Asparagus
Purpose shaped base for roof cooling.
Wa chasparagoides) used to be popular in Removable filter for dam or river water use.
Able to run multiple sprinklers from the same tap.
bouquets, but is now one of the worst
SIZE OF 1.25MM DISC 1.5MM 1.75MM DISC 2.0MM WITHOUT
ouweeds in our gardens and bushland DISC USED DISC DISC DISC
3.5M
and is classed as a Weed of National WATERING 1.5M 2.5M TO 5.0M 4.5M EFFECTIVE
Significance. Some biological DIAMETER TO 3.0M TO 4.0M TO 6.0M UP TO 8M
controls have been released 3.5
in Australia and are slowly APPROX. 2.5 3.0 4.5 6.5
spreading. In the meantime, LITRES/MIN
PHOTOS ISTOCK, ALAMY you can help by removing the
weeds, making sure you dig Available from AGnVET, AIRR, Bunnings, CRT, Dahlsens,
out all the underground tubers, Elders, Home Hardware, Landmark, Mitre 10, Plants Plus,
and bagging and binning the lot. Pursehouse Rural, Thrifty Link, Total Eden, True Value and
Tuckers. Or ask your local Hardware or Rural Retail Store.

facebook.com/Wobble-Tee-Sprinklers

T. 02 4975 3222 | www.wobble-tee.com.au

STEP BY STEP

TAKE LAVENDER CUTTINGS

Lavender is easy to strike from stem cuttings, and it’s a great way
to increase your stock or replace old bushes that are looking tired
and shabby. PHIL DUDMAN demonstrates how.

e opics 1

Enjoy the magnificent sight of 1 CUT OFF a bunch of leafy stems, at tip, strip foliage from the bottom of the
poincianas in full bloom (above), least 15cm long, from the main bush. cutting, and leave a few leaves at the top.
but only consider planting one of these 2 TRIM each cutting at the base, just 3 DIP the base of the cutting in rooting
wide-spreading trees in your garden below a leaf node – that’s where roots hormone powder or gel to encourage
if you have plenty of room for it will form. Prune floppy growth from the root development.

Finish major gardening jobs before 23 PHOTOS ISTOCK, ANNA HUTCHCROFT
it becomes even more hot and humid

Plant Allamanda cathartica in large
pots, and place them where the plants
can best show off their golden flowers

Sow seeds of kangkong (water
spinach) in damp spots to provide a
supply of leafy greens through summer

Watch out for black spots and other
signs of fungal diseases on developing
mangoes, and begin regular applications
of organic fungicide if required

Put in one last crop of sweetcorn
for the season, early this month so the
seeds germinate and the plants get
going before the Wet kicks in

Check and reshape garden beds to
make sure excess water is able to get
away when the heavy rains come

Ensure there is clean water available
in the garden for birds and bees

Tidy vegetable beds by cutting off
old plants at ground level, and gather
desirable seeds to save

Plant rooted sweet potato shoots
in troughs, where their growth can
be easily controlled

72 N OV E M B E R 2020 G ARDENING AUS TR ALIA

YOUR
PLANNER

70

4

56

4 FILL a small pot with moistened
propagating mix (you can make your
own by combining equal parts coir peat
and perlite). Use a pencil to dib a hole
in the mix for each cutting, carefully
plant, then gently water them in.
5 MAKE a mini hothouse to protect your
cuttings from the elements. A piece of
wire makes the perfect frame.
6 PULL a clear plastic bag over the wire
frame to complete your mini hothouse,
then place the pot in a bright, sheltered
spot out of direct sunlight. Check
regularly to make sure the mix is still
moist. In a month or two, the cuttings
form roots and are ready to pot up.

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IN THEPATCH

PHOTOS ISTOCK, JESSIE PRINCE Horticultural editor and devoted food grower
PHIL DUDMAN shows you what to plant,
pick and tend in the edible garden this month

G ARDENING AUS TR ALIA N OV E M B E R 2020 75

PLAitNNTOW

AMARANTH

Often touted as a superfood, amaranth is
a fast-growing annual with edible leaves,
stems and seeds that are high in minerals
and protein. It is easy to grow, thrives in
the heat, and tolerates dry conditions.

Some varieties can be grown purely for
their ornamental value. Garnet Red (right)
has crimson, feather-like flowering plumes,
and Red Callaloo (below) features a splash
of red down the centre of its green leaves.

Amaranth leaves are a great spinach
substitute and very pleasant to eat. They
are not slimy like many other heat-tolerant

spinach substitutes. The leaves and stems Choose a spot in full sun to semi-shade,
can be added to stir-fries, casseroles and and simply sprinkle some of the fine seeds
soups, and the seeds – there are thousands on the surface of prepared soil, or in large
– can be cooked like quinoa and used in pots of potting mix. Firm them in to make
savoury and sweet dishes. While amaranth good contact with the growing medium,
has many favourable characteristics, be then water. Keep them moist and they’ll
aware that it is high in oxalates, so should come up in a week or two. Sow more seed
be eaten in moderation. It’s best avoided than you need, then thin young plants for an
if you are histamine intolerant. early harvest. Successive sowings through
the warmer months will provide an ongoing
Look for seeds at your garden centre or supply of young, tender leaves and shoots.
online. There’s not much to starting them.

PiItCNKOW GARLIC PHOTOS ISTOCK, GAP PHOTOS/CLIVE NICHOLS

Depending on the variety, garlic bulbs are ready to harvest in
spring or summer, 5–8 months after planting. The first sign is
when the leaves start to die from the base. Scrape back a bit of
soil and check some of the bulbs. If the ridges of the clove are
clearly defined, they can be pulled up. Don’t wait for all the
leaves to die – harvest with at least 4–5 green leaves so they
store better. If the soil is heavy, use a garden fork to help lift
them out. Shake off the soil, tie in bunches of 5–10, and hang in
a warm, airy, shaded spot under cover for three weeks to cure.

76 N O V E M B E R 2 02 0 G A R D E N I N G AU S T R A L I A

IN THE PATCH

CROPS
IN POTS

EGGPLANT

Eggplant is a summer favourite in the garden
and the kitchen, and with a decent-sized pot,
you can enjoy growing this attractive fruit on
a patio or balcony. If you’ve had problems with
deadly soilborne diseases such as verticillium
wilt, you can grow your eggplant in containers
without fear of a repeat appearance.

A large, 40cm-wide pot can accommodate a
single plant. Eggplant looks great in terracotta
pots, creating a Mediterranean feel, but they dry
out quickly. Coat the inside with a pot sealant
first, or use a plastic or glazed container. Place
the pot in a sunny spot protected from strong
winds. Fill it with a 3:1:1 blend of premium
potting mix, coir peat and washed river sand.

Buy seedlings this month to make the most
of the growing season (seed is best started
in September in most areas). Compact and
early-maturing varieties are ideal for pots.
Look for Slim Jim, Long Purple, White Star,
Thai Long Green and Mini Lebanese. Plant
them at the same level as they were growing
in the original punnet or pot. Put in a few
bamboo stakes or a tomato cage to help keep
the fruit-laden plants upright.

Dry potting mix leads to poor-quality fruit,
so check your eggplant daily to see if it needs
more water. If this isn’t practical, grow it in
a self-watering pot to give you an extra day
or two. Add mulch to the surface to conserve
moisture. These are hungry, hardworking
plants, so add a sprinkling of pelletised poultry
manure once a month, and supplement with
a weekly application of liquid seaweed and
fish emulsion. Keep an eye out for black flea
beetles, ladybirds and their larvae, which feed
on the leaves. Pick them off and squash them.

The first fruit should be ready to harvest
2–3 months from planting. Cut them off with
sharp secateurs when they have reached full
size and are still glossy and firmish.

GARDENING AUSTRALIA NOVE MB E R 2020 77

STEP-BY-STEP

INSTALL A FRAME FOR GROWING CUCUMBERS
Cucumbers are trailing plants that the bed so it provides valuable afternoon

naturally sprawl and occupy a lot of shade for heat-sensitive plants such as

space. Training vines vertically on a beetroot, lettuce and other leafy greens.

frame saves room on the ground for Throw down some compost and fertilisers,

growing other things. PHIL DUDMAN such as blood and bone and rock minerals,

demonstrates how to set it up. then rake it all in.

2 DECIDE where your posts should go,

1 PREPARE a spot on the southern side then bang them in firmly. We’ve used

of your patch so the leafy frame won’t sturdy steel star pickets as posts because

shade the rest of the bed. Alternatively, the frame is a heavy galvanised steel mesh

set up the frame at the western end of panel. Wooden tomato stakes would be

fine to support lighter frames made from

plastic or wire mesh.

2 3 TIE the frame firmly to the posts in
1 several places using a strong twine.

3

4 USE a dibbler or trowel to make planting
holes at the base of the frame at a suitable
depth for your cucumber seedlings or seed.
Sow two seeds per hole, then thin out the
weakest of the plants once they get going.
5 WATER seed sparingly, as cucumber
seed can rot when the soil is too wet, then
gradually increase watering as the plants
start to grow. Direct the young vines to
the frame. Once they’ve latched on with
their tendrils, they will happily climb, and
then they’ll need only occasional training
to redirect any wayward stems.

PHOTOS ANNA HUTCHCROFT, ISTOCK IN THE PATCH

4 helping

HAND
Tips for tackling this
month’s problem

5 WHY DIDN’T MY PUMPKIN

SEED GERMINATE?

When conditions are right, pumpkin seed takes 5–10 days
to germinate. If it doesn’t, there are a few possible causes.

The first is moisture. If the soil is too dry, nothing
happens. Too wet and the seed simply rots. A reliable
way to get things just right is to soak the seed for two
hours or so before sowing, to initiate germination. Plant
and water in the seed, then refrain from watering until
the soil or potting mix close to the seed has dried out.
Make sure you sow the seed at the correct depth, which
is about 2.5cm. If it’s sown too deep, it will get too wet.

Temperature also plays an important role. The seed
won’t germinate when conditions are too cold. Wait until
daytime temperatures are consistently in the 20s before
sowing directly in the soil. If you want to get an early start
in spring, sow seed in small pots on a sunny windowsill.

Finally, consider the viability of the seed you’re using.
The germination rate of pumpkin seed that is three or
four years old will be very inconsistent. You could either
try your luck by sowing more of that seed, or buy a fresh
packet of seed for more reliable results.

G A R D EN IN G AU S T R A L I A N OV E M B E R 2020 79

Sweet as!

Kiwifruit vines produce perfect little packages of
juicy goodness, and are generally free of problems.
But be prepared to prune, says PHIL DUDMAN

What a treat it is to tuck into The humble kiwifruit didn’t originate The vines must be spaced 5m apart PHOTOS ISTOCK
a perfectly ripened kiwifruit. in New Zealand. It came from China, to allow adequate room for growth. This
Just cut it in half and scoop and was called Chinese gooseberry. The also prevents unwanted tangling between
out the succulent flesh. It’s Kiwis knew they were onto a good thing neighbours, which makes pruning tricky
a great healthy snack to drop into school when commercial vines were first grown – and these plants need regular pruning.
lunch boxes – my kids used to love them. in New Zealand in the early 1900s. The
plants thrived with little care in the moist, Find a spot that receives plenty of sun.
The fruit grows on a deciduous vine, like temperate climate, fruiting well. Kiwifruit is Strong winds can damage vines, so make
a grapevine, providing shade in summer, also suited to temperate areas of Australia. sure they’re protected by a fence, building
and winter sun when the branches are With the right variety, you can grow this or surrounding vegetation. The plants like a
bare. Kiwifruit vines produce stacks of fruit as far north as South East Queensland. deep, rich, well-drained soil. Add plenty of
fruit, so they are great plants to add to compost before planting and, if necessary,
a home orchard – if you have the space, getting started mound the soil to provide better drainage
that is, because they’re vigorous growers. and greater depth for the roots.
You need about 5m of fence, trellis or Plant bare-rooted stock in the ground
pergola per vine, and you must grow at in winter, or potted plants at other times Support structures need to be sturdy
least two vines because kiwifruit are of the year. One male will comfortably to accommodate the bulk and weight of
dioecious, meaning the male and female pollinate 5–7 female vines, but most vines. A solid weldmesh fence or timber
flowers are found on separate plants. households will need only one or two. pergola is ideal, or you could construct
a freestanding trellis using timber posts

80 N OV E M B E R 2020 G A R D EN IN G AU S T R A L I A

IN THE PATCH

and crosspieces (to form a T) standing DISEASES
about 2m above the ground. Thread wires, & PESTS
30–40cm apart, through the crosspieces.
Freestanding supports are best aligned Kiwifruit is generally free
north to south to maximise sun exposure of problems, although grey mould
for all parts of the vines. disease can sometimes develop
on fruit. Thin crowded vines and
care & maintenance
clear vegetation around the
Water your kiwifruit vines regularly developing fruit to maintain good
and deeply, especially during dry spells.
They are hungry plants, so fertilise in air flow. If birds are an issue,
early spring, and again in late summer, cover the vines with
with pelletised chicken manure. bird-safe netting.

Use a stake or wire to guide the early TOP varieties
growth towards the long-term support Kiwifruit needs 400–700 chill hours (below 7°C) to form fruit. If you’re in a
structure. Remove side shoots as they warm, marginal growing area, choose a low-chill variety. Remember to ask
appear, to encourage the vine to form for a suitable male pollinator when buying your vine. Here are my top picks:
a single trunk, until it reaches a height
where you’re happy for it to spread – Hayward Popular commercial Low to medium chill.
say, 1m for a fence or 2m for a pergola variety. High chill. H4 Reliable cropper, similar
or freestanding trellis. Train two or more
main arms to the left and right, spacing Dexter Similar to Hayward. to Hayward. Low chill.
them 30–40cm apart. These will be the Low to medium chill. Sweetie Medium-sized fruit
permanent branches. Side shoots that
form along these branches need to be Bruno Large fruit, big crops. with golden flesh. Low chill.
thinned to 20–30cm apart, and these will
become the permanent fruiting spurs. Kiwifruit takes 3–4 years to produce its OPPOSITE PAGE
first crop. Fruit matures from about April To prevent disease, fruit on the
Fruit forms on the current season’s to June. Test by cutting one in half – if the vine should be kept free of excess
growth, which sprouts from the previous seeds are black, the fruit is ready to start vegetation so air can circulate.
season’s wood. In winter, after harvest, cut harvesting. Pick the largest first, stalk intact, ABOVE, AND LEFT
back the spent fruiting wood to one side and take them inside to ripen. They yield
shoot near the base, then shorten this shoot gently to pressure when ready. Ripe fruit e fruit is ripe if it gives a little
to two or three buds to force fruiting growth keeps in the fridge for several weeks. GA when pressed, and the seeds are
in spring. In summer, after the fruit has set, black; train kiwifruit vines over
contain whippy growth by cutting it back a support, with the fruiting spurs
to about three buds past the developing spaced 20–30cm apart.
fruit. This directs the energy back into the
fruit while keeping the vine open and airy, at a glance
which helps to reduce disease problems.
Follow up weekly, until the fruit ripens, to common name
keep the vines in check. Pruning the male kiwifruit
vine is more straightforward. In spring, botanic name
after flowering, simply prune the canes Actinidia deliciosa
back to about 20cm long.
9m 4–5m
full sun
year-round
April to June

suitable

G A R D EN IN G AU S T R A L I A N OV E M B E R 2020 81

MAILBOX

MOST OF MY SPRING FLOWERING PLANTS HAVE
FINISHED. WHAT NEEDS PRUNING NOW, AND WHAT
SHOULD I LEAVE? WHAT’S THE RULE OF THUMB?

Giselle Katz, Kogarah, NSW

MARIANNE CANNON SAYS lightly as soon as the petals fall just need a light trim to remove any spent
and before the new flush of flowers and encourage more blooms.
The rule of thumb with most flowering growth. Some spring-flowering
plants is to prune soon after their flowers or trees, such as jacaranda, are Herbs such as rosemary, thyme,
fruit have finished, removing no more than best left alone, as they send up lavender and oregano can be pruned now
one-third of the canopy for shrubs, and only ugly water shoots when pruned. if they are looking straggly and unkempt.
10 per cent for large trees (if you choose They won’t reshoot from bare wood, so
to prune your trees). Scheduling pruning Flowering deciduous trees, including don’t prune them hard. Always leave a
in this way allows adequate time for new cherry, plum and crabapple, are best reasonable amount of foliage below the cut.
growth to mature before next season’s pruned soon after their flower show has
flowering. If you prune too late, the plants finished if they are ornamental varieties, As you go about your pruning, take the
may produce fewer or no flower buds. or after harvest if they are grown for fruit. opportunity to remove dead, diseased and
The only pruning required for apple trees damaged material. This helps to maintain
Winter-to-spring-flowering shrubs, such (above) in spring and summer is to control both the appearance and health of any
as lilac, camellia, azalea, rhododendron, excessive growth or to remove branches plant. Also, it’s good practice to fertilise
maybush and forsythia, can be pruned growing inward. Their formative pruning and water plants after pruning to support
now. Natives such as tea-tree can be given is best done in late winter when you can them as they respond with new growth.
a light prune to shape after flowering. So see the branch structure more clearly.
can bottlebrush and grevillea, which can
be given a harder prune if required. Roses that flower once, such as banksia
roses and ‘Albertine’, can be pruned after
Evergreen spring-flowering trees, such the spring flush. Repeat-flowering roses
as evergreen magnolias, are best pruned

Q We recently purchased a home in North West Tasmania. It has
a gorgeous walnut tree that’s about 35 years old. e space under
the tree faces east, and I’m struggling to grow anything there. I’d love to
underplant with some colour for when the tree is bare. Can you help?

Rebecca Coleman, Ambleside, Tas

JENNIFER STACKHOUSE SAYS visually unify the space. Annuals that flower PHOTOS ISTOCK
from winter to spring, such as pansies,
Walnuts are allelopathic, which means primulas and polyanthus, are a simple and
they exude natural chemicals to deter colourful solution. Plant these in autumn,
other plant growth. The area under the then swap for potted begonias in summer.
tree is also dry, has root competition, Clumping plants such as hellebores and
and is heavily shaded for part of the year. snowflake (Leucojum aestivum) also
All these factors make it tricky to grow provide winter floral colour, and they can
plants in the soil beneath a walnut tree. remain in place year-round. Position the
Instead, arrange large pots under the tree, pots so they’re easy to water regularly.
surrounded by mulch to deter weeds and

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