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ISSUE 55

Espaliers

Ornamental gingers

Poolside plants

Avocado trees

Lemon-scented plants

Summer fl owers

Lilly pillies

Ixoras

For more gardening hints & tips, visit www.aboutthegarden.com.auFor more gardening hints & tips, visit www.aboutthegarden.com.au

Summer 2010–2011

About this issue...FeaturesBecome an avocado afi cionado! 4Poolside planting 6Lemon scented wonders 8Fruit, fl at out! 10 Trees for small spaces 13Stunning summer shrubs 16Lovely lilly pilly 18Ornamental gingers 20Blooms to beat the heat 22Cooling summer herbs 23

RegularsSummer 2010–2011 Garden Diary 12Summer 2010–2011 handy hints & tips 14Subscribe to About the Garden 21

Issue 55Summer2010–2011

For many of us, summer is the time of lazy gardening days. It’s also time to enjoy the fruits of gardening efforts earlier in the year with friends and family. Wherever you are, remember

to take it easy in the summer sun, happy gardening and God bless...

Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.— Luke 18:1

• Managing Director: Conway Searle• Contributors: Linda Brennan, Noel Burdette, Frida Forsberg, Alana Searle and Ashley Searle• Magazine Manager: Alana Searle• Design & Layout: Frida Forsberg — ATG Graphics Dept.• ATG Group Co-ordinator & Advertising: Jason Searle• Front Cover Photography: Ixora ‘Gold Fire’ (foreground) & ‘Prince of Orange (background)’ by Alana SearleAbout the Garden is published seasonally byAbout the Garden Pty. Ltd. ABN 21 076 919 9924914 D’Aguilar Highway, Kilcoy or P.O. Box 70, Kilcoy Qld. 4515Phone: (07) 5422 3090 • Fax: (07) 5497 2287Email: atg@aboutthegarden.com.au

Con Searle

The material appearing in About the Garden is subject to copyright. Other than as permitted by the Copyright Act, no part of this magazine may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers. No responsibility is accepted by About the Garden Pty. Ltd. for the accuracy of information contained in the text, illustrations or advertisements. Although believed to be accurately and correctly sourced, thereof disclaims any liability against itself, editor/s or employees arising from any person acting on the material herein. The opinions expressed in the magazine, or by contributors, do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. ©Copyright 2010 About the Garden Pty. Ltd.

ixoraExhilarating

Ixoras bring a tropical splash of colour to summer gardens and will fl ower profusely through the warmer months. Ideal as a hedge, specimen or container plant, they also make excellent cut fl owers — regular cutting will promote fl ower production and compact, bushy growth. Give ixoras a well drained soil in part shade or full sun, mulch well and water during establishment and dry periods. Protect from frost.

Ixora ‘Gold Fire’

Ixora ‘Coral Fire’

Ixora ‘Pink Malay’

2 mangoes, diced2 avocados, diced100g baby spinach, washedhandful of fl aked almonds or pine nuts4 tbsp mango chutney or similar

Place baby spinach in a salad bowl or on a serving platter. Top with mango, avocado, almonds and pine nuts. Mix mango chutney with a little water to desired thickness. Drizzle over salad. Serve immediately. Great with steak or baked fi sh.

22 avocados, diced100g baby spinach, washedhandful of fl aked almonds or pine nuts4 tbsp mango chutney or similar

2 mangoes, diced2 avocados, diced

Quick Mango &Avocado Salad

Rhythm& Blues

Petunia

AvocadoBecome an

HistoryOriginally from Central and South America, the avocado (Persea americana) can grow almost anywhere in Australia that doesn’t get heavy frosts. Typically a tropical fruit which enjoys cool winters and hot, humid summers, there are also avocado varieties that suit cooler or Mediterranean climates, so the key to easy and successful avocado production is in choosing the right variety for your area.

Planting positionGive trees full sun and shelter from frost and strong winds. They also need protection from salt-laden winds in seaside locations. Although they like extra water during dry periods, they hate boggy conditions, so good drainage is essential. Soil should be sandy and well composted to ensure good drainage. Avocados grow well

on sloping ground, where water does not settle around the roots.

Plant selectionAvocados can be grown from seed, but in such cases cannot be expected to produce fruit for at least ten years. A better option is to plant only grafted plants, which will usually fruit within three years. Fruit does not ripen on the tree. Pick it and allow a week to 10 days for it to ripen (see ‘Harvest’, above). There are several varieties of avocado available to home growers, including Hass, Fuerte, Wurtz, Sharwil and Hazzard. Grown on dwarf root stock, they should not exceed 2.5m in height.

Preparing the soilThe secret to growing an avocado tree successfully is to ensure excellent drainage. Build up garden beds at least 30–50cm high and 1m wide, digging plenty of Searles Real Compost and Searles 5IN1 Organic Plant Food into the existing soil.

Avocados are easy to grow in warm-temperate to tropical gardens and are a nutritious power house of vitamins, minerals, benefi cial fats and antioxidants. Low in sugar and containing no starch or salt, planting an avocado tree can be the best way to grow your way to good health and nutrition.

Squeeze me! To test whether an avocado is ready to eat, give it a gentle squeeze near the stem. A ripe avocado will feel firm, but ‘give’ a little when squeezed. If you want an over-ripe avocado, (such as for making guacamole), wait until the fruit is a little softer.

4 5

MulchingMulching is essential as avocados are a rainforest tree and are surface feeders. A mulch of sugar cane straw and compost can be laid up to 10cm thick and should be spread over the entire ‘under-canopy’ root zone. Re-apply it every year in August or throughout the year as needed.

FeedingAvocados need to be well fed, so apply Searles Kickalong Fruit & Flower organic plant food in spring, early summer and early autumn according to the instructions.

WateringAvocados enjoy warm, wet conditions so make sure you keep the water up to them through the growing season, especially during summer heatwaves. However, be careful not to overwater in winter.

PollinationAvocados are not strictly self pollinating. While some varieties can fruit well on their own, cross-pollination between type A trees (with morning receptive fl owers) and type B trees (with evening receptive fl owers) will enhance fruiting. In some varieties, it’s essential for good fruiting, so always ask if you’re not sure. It’s always ideal to plant a type A and a type B tree in close proximity, if you have space!

Avocados in potsAn easy solution to drainage problems or heavy clay soils is to grow a dwarf avocado tree in a large pot, at least 50–100 litres in size. Use Searles Pots & Tubs premium potting mix for best results. Place it in a sunny position in your garden and prune your tree by about one quarter after each fruiting season to keep it compact. This way, it should be able to remain in the pot indefi nitely. Growing avocados in containers is also an excellent option for courtyards and paved areas.

Pests & diseasesPhytophthora (Phytophthora cinnamomi) is a common soil-borne fungal infection which affects avocados and spreads in waterlogged soils. Known as ‘root rot’ among avocado growers, it attacks the tree’s roots, causes yellowing and dropping of leaves and can eventually kill the tree. Prevention is better than cure, so the best strategy

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Harvest!When the fruit adopts a slightly duller sheen and the button at the stem of the fruit starts changing to a lighter colour, the fruit should be ready to pick. Pick one fruit and put it in a paper bag or in a dark cupboard to ripen. If it softens within a week or two, it should be okay to start harvesting.

afi cionado!

is to avoid the problem by ensuring good drainage. Practice good hygiene as infected soil is easily carried on garden tools, shoes and other equipment. Immediately remove infected plants and avoid planting where avocado trees have been grown previously. David Grays Phos-Inject 200 Fungicide (phosphite) is a biodegradable fungicide that has been shown to increase a plant’s natural defences to phytophthora. Iron defi ciency is a common (but less serious) ailment which appears as yellowing of the leaves. If it is not corrected with your regular feeding regime, try a chelated foliar spray of trace elements containing iron such as Searles Iron Chelate.

Shopping list...

honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica)

seaside daisy (Erigeron karvinskianus)sedum ‘Gold Mound’

fl owering aloe Spanish iris (Dietes spp.)ornamental grass

pandorea

blue sapphire (Evolvulous pilosus)

tiger grass (Thysanolaena maxima)

If the whole area around the pool is paved and a little extra space is available, planting into large pots can be very effective. A set of pots that are all the same colour and style will usually have the most visual impact. Plant an assortment of plants in each one or better still, stick to an individual species that can be repeated in each pot.

Good choices include Brazilian jasmine (Dipladenia sp.), Bambino (dwarf) bougainvillea, Geranium (ivy or zonal) (pelargonium sp.), French lavender (Lavendula dentata), bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) or water wise succulents such as century plant (Agave attenuata), fl owering aloe hybrids or money plant (Crassula ovata) (broad leaf form).

Got the hots for pots?

We can often spend large sums of money on the installation of a pool, be it above or in ground, yet we underestimate the importance of plants that can truly bring our investment to life and help to reward us and our families with many years of pleasure and enjoyment.For the most successful result it’s as important to make sure your pool blends with surrounding landscaping and to use poolside plants that grow happily beside the water’s edge as it is to choose the right pool shape or tile colour.

There are no hard and fast rules with plant choice, but most people would prefer to spend their time using the pool than maintaining its perimeters, so the best plant selections are generally those that are easy-care and of high visual impact. Plants should be tough enough to tolerate either salty or chlorinated water spray and to take the likely wear and tear of foot traffi c.

The fi rst priority for many people is privacy and many beautiful screening plants are perfect for this application. To prevent debris falling in

the water, it’s best to avoid shrubby hedging plants that need pruning to shape near the water’s edge.

If space is limited, make the most of vertical space by growing densely foliaged, evergreen climbing plants such as Chinese star jasmine (Trachelospurmum jasminoides) or Honeysuckle ‘Purpurea’ (Lonicera japonica). In cooler climates, the latter can be substituted with one of the many native Pandorea jasminoides species available such as the white fl owered cultivar, ‘Lady Di’. Use a sturdy lattice framework for the climbers to grow onto so they will not interfere with any fence lines. Attach the lattice between posts and then trim it to the perimeters of the framework.

For a tropical effect, plant the exotic-looking tiger grass (Thysanolaena maxima). This Asian member of the grass family is often confused with bamboo and its large, distinctive foliage can grow between three and four metres tall in a very short time. Position plants about 1.5 metres apart. As each plant matures and spreads, their foliage will ‘knit’ to form

a dense screen within two years of planting. Tiger grass is non-invasive and does not set viable seed. Its base will reach around 50 cm in diameter so can be ideal in tight spots.

To continue the tropical theme, tiger grass can be under-planted with dwarf rhoeo (Tradescantia spathacea). This highly dependable and fast growing ground cover can outwit the fastest of weeds whilst providing maintenance-free foliage throughout the year. Its deep green, succulent-like leaves are dark aubergine on their undersides to provide striking colour at ground level. This plant can be offset with the vibrant foliage of sedum ‘gold mound’. The contrasting foliage creates a contemporary look while providing quick, reliable coverage.

During the summer one of South Africa’s most loved fl owers comes into fl ower, the agapanthus. There are so many on the market now that the choices seem endless, yet the original tall growing varieties of blue and white still hold their stately appeal. Tough, durable and extremely heat tolerant, agapanthus

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Pictured: This delightful planting of jasmine and potted petunias creates the perfect poolside retreat. bears its masses of blooms

during our hottest time of the year. Look out for a smaller cultivar named ‘Silver Baby’ that only grows to 60cm tall with soft, silver-blue fl ower heads.

Agapanthus is perfect teamed with seaside daisy (Erigeron karvinskianus), blue sapphire (Evolvulous pilosus), society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) and Brachyscome multifi da, our native rock daisy which is now widely available in many forms.

Ornamental tussock grasses such as ‘Eskdale’ (Poa labillardieri), ‘Kangaroo grass’ (Themeda australis) or ‘Elijah Blue’ (Festuca Glauca) can be added to this ensemble to create a magical effect during late summer when graceful soft plumes are produced.

An alternative to agapanthus is the ever popular Spanish iris (Dietes cultivars). Best choices are D. grandifl ora with its large, lavender and white blooms, held one metre high or D. bi-colour with its rounded growth habit and soft, lemon coloured blooms.

Poolside gardens are commonly treated as ornamental, but it is perfectly possible to grow functional or productive gardens by the poolside.

Pool enclosures can be perfect for growing herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano and mint, as well as dwarf citrus trees in pots.

Even though most of us don’t use our pools as frequently during the winter period, this does not mean the surrounding landscape cannot retain its appeal to the eye through the cooler times of year. Pools take up more ground in our increasingly space-limited backyards than most of us care to acknowledge, so utilizing the smaller spaces around or within their perimeter can certainly bring another sensory dimension to outdoor entertainment and family living space.

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Poolside promenadeFor many of us, a swimming pool in the backyard is synonymous with the great Australian lifestyle and complementing your pool with stylish gardens will enhance your enjoyment of it, year after year.

society garlic(Tulbaghia violacea)

agapanthus

Chinese star jasmine(Trachelospurmum jasminoides)

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Mandevillain glazed pots

What you’ll need...

Lemon grass

The leaves of most citrus trees exude a delicious, lemon fragrance when their leaves are bruised or crushed, but what’s remarkable is that completely unrelated plants can give us the same unmistakable perfume. For that refreshing, ‘lemony’ aroma, here are a range of plants that can bring natural aromatherapy right to your doorstep.

Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus)

This herb makes a beautiful landscape plant. Growing to a large, grey-green grassy clump about 1m x 1m, it loves a frost-free climate, full sun and plenty of water until established. It is only the inner, 2-3cm portion at the base of the stalk that is eaten, so remove the tough, outer layers and crush it lightly to release the lemony oils before adding it to your cooking.

*Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora)

This small, Australian native rainforest tree is not only one of the purest sources of naturally occurring citral (a deliciously lemon-scented compound) but is also an extremely beautiful tree. It bears satiny, bright green leaves throughout the year with flushes of apricot-pink new growth

and bird and butterfly-attracting flowers in late spring and summer. It flowers best in full sun and prefers a rich, well-drained soil with plenty of moisture but is hardy and easy to grow in most Australian gardens. When grown in full sun, it rarely exceeds 5m in height and tends to grow tall and narrow so can be excellent for small spaces. It will bear

branches almost to ground level unless they are removed so can make a good screening plant.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Related to mint and oregano, lemon balm needs a sheltered, sunny spot or part shade for best results, but can prefer full sun in cooler climates and at cooler times of year. Similar to mint in appearance and habit, it is a clumping perennial herb that can be an excellent ground cover in dry spots where nothing else will grow. Throw a few leaves into boiling water for a soothing tea or use in fish dishes. In cooler climates, lemon balm may die back in winter but re-appear in spring.

Alana Searle wonders

Lemon scented tea tree blossoms

smells like lemon and it is said that even just standing nearby, it is possible to smell the lemon fragrance on a gentle breeze. Best suited to large gardens, parks and acreages because of its large size (up to 25m), it is none-the-less a magnificent tree and worth growing if you have space for it.

*Plants marked with an asterisk are recommended as flora for fauna.

*Lemon-scented tea tree (Leptospermum petersonii)

This Australian native is wonderful as a feature tree or mass planted as a privacy screen. Every spring, it is covered in tiny white flowers that attract birds and native bees. Its fine leaves can be crushed to release its uplifting, lemon fragrance or used to make a tea which was a popular drink with Australia’s early settlers. Plant it in full sun and give it good drainage for best results. Hardy in most conditions including drought, it tolerates light frosts.

Lemon verbena(Aloysia triphylla)

Lemon verbena is a sun loving, deciduous perennial shrub with a strong, citrus fragrance, native to South America. It can grow well in a well-drained potting mix such as Searles Pots & Tubs. Lemon verbena will lose its leaves in freezing temperatures

Lemon basil(Ocimum x citriodorum)

This is a variety of basil with a delightful lemon fragrance and flavour. Like other basil, it is a warm-season annual that likes a rich, well-drained soil and frequent watering during its peak growing period. Although it enjoys a sunny position, it grows best in part shade during the heat of summer and likes protection from harsh, afternoon sun. Pluck off flower heads when they appear to prolong its productive life.

*Lemon scented eucalyptus(Eucalyptus citriodora)

The most striking feature of this lovely tree is its smooth, powdery white or pale pink trunk which stretches majestically upward into slender branches. Every part of this tree

but can survive temperatures of -10˚C. Water it during its winter dormant period to keep the soil moist but not wet. Lemon verbena can grow up to 3–7 metres tall in tropical conditions, but is likely to stay less than a metre tall in home gardens. Lemon verbena likes plenty of water but is also quite drought hardy. Pop a few sprigs into a foil parcel with fish on the barbecue for some great, fresh flavours.

Lemon thyme(Thymus x citriodorus)

Lemon thyme will bring a strong and zesty lemon flavour to any recipe. It’s another great one for growing in a pot by the kitchen and also makes a great landscaping plant as it spreads easily, has low water needs and rarely exceeds 30cm high. This sun-loving, drought hardy perennial herb may die back in winter in cooler regions, often re-appearing in spring.

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Lemon thyme

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For mild winters:• Olives (eg. Helena)

• Citrus eg. Tahitian lime, Meyer lemon, Lisbon lemon

• Berries such as Keriberry

• Figs

• Dwarf pomegranates

• Camellia sinensis (Tea)

• Bay laurel

Espalier (es-pal-yay) is the age-old art of training fruit trees and ornamental plants to grow onto a frame or lattice to produce a two-dimensional ‘wall’ of fruit, fl owers or foliage. Espalier originated in Persia, where gardeners trained trees along walls or boundaries. Through the middle ages, the French became masters of espalier, and the craze for these fancy trees spread across Europe. In those days the heat refl ected from walls allowed espaliered fruit trees to be grown in much cooler climates than their native origins; today espalier can help make the most of our increasingly

small living spaces or better exploit a narrow strip of sunlight between tall buildings. While espalier most often involves stone and pome fruits like cherries, apples and pears, you can espalier a range of evergreens and tropical fruit trees too. A well-trained espaliered tree is a beautiful sight. The many traditional shapes include palmette, candelabra, serpentines and stepovers. The latter are low growing borders used around garden edges and pathways.

Potted espalierEspaliered trees can be grown in the ground or in large pots and tubs. Choose a

Fruit, fl at out!Would you like a fruit tree or two but just can’t fi nd the space? Here’s a way to have your small block and your fruit trees, too. Linda Brennan shares with us the secrets of espalier.

quality potting mix such as Searles Pots & Tubs Potting Mix. Pots can be ideal for patios and balconies, but your fruit trees will still need a strong, permanent support for training.

Starting your artful trainingChoose a spot with at least 5-6 hours sunlight per day. If planting into the ground, prepare the soil with compost and organic fertilisers such as Searles Kickalong Fruit & Flower to create a fertile, moisture retentive growing medium.Now prepare the supporting framework. You can use an existing metal wire panel, timber slats, wire fencing panels or existing wire fence or lattice. Alternatively you can create your own framework with three tightened stainless steel wires between posts. For a tiered espalier like the one pictured top-left, you will have the fi rst taut wire/timber running about 60 cm up from ground level. The second wire will be 30–40 cm above this. Third or fourth wires are installed at even spacings, depending on your desired fi nished height.

Choosing and planting your fruiting specimen Your young plant will have at least 3–5 fl exible young branches, the lowest starting at about 50–60cm from the soil level. (It may be dormant or in leaf. Remove any fruit. Plant in the centre of the trellis or wires and water in well with Searles Liquid Seaweed to stimulate root growth.

Be vigilantRegular removal of strong growth in any direction other than along the supports is essential. With stone fruit, keep fruiting spurs short and close to the wires. The main trimming is done in winter on deciduous trees. Shorten and control quick growing branches through the summer.

Evergreens like olives and citrus will be trimmed to shape from the time you put them in too, but they tend to grow most of the year, so need regular maintenance. When training citrus, remember that fruit are formed on the current season’s growth. Allow some fl owers and fruit to form before trimming away excess. On all trees, keep branches and their laterals short so fl owering and fruiting on new growth occurs close to the wires. Remember, we are aiming for a fl at tree with easily accessible and harvestable fruit.

Harvesting your fruit As with any fruiting tree, espaliered trees may take a number of years to fruit. Expect citrus to fruit after just a couple of years. Tropical apricots, apples and peaches may take 3 years or so. You’ll fi nd it very easy to harvest from your espaliered fruit tree as it will be trained no higher than you can reach. Setting the wires or trellis out from the wall or fence by 15-20cm will create a space for you to reach behind and trim and harvest from the back of the plant, too.Before long you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your artful tree training and friends will be asking you to help them train an espalier too!

A traditional tiered shape is both decorative and functional. Fruit are just a short reach away.

A heritage pear makes an attractive fan-shaped (palmette) espalier.

• Take the lowest two branches and tie them to the fi rst horizontal support wires using string or soft ties. They don’t have to be tightly attached or fl at at this stage. You can retie them in a few weeks as they succumb to the horizontal growth pattern. Trim any long stems along the branch so you have a main ‘lateral’.

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Fruiting treesfor espalier

Training a Training a tiered shapetiered shape

For cool/cold winters:

• Stone fruit eg apricots, plums, peaches and nectarines

• Nuts

• Apples, pears and quince

• Grapes, Logan berry and youngberries

• Kiwifruit

• Pomegranate

• Camellia sinensis (tea)

• Bay laurel

The main branches of this old pear tree are well established in their permanent shape. They are held against a wall using wires and soft rubber tube ties.

Espaliered fruiting trees can turn a boring wall into a work of art. This candelabra shaped collection is an eye-catcher.

60cm

35cm

35cm

• If your plant has a central leader, continue it upward. Find the next two branches up the main stem that are closest to the next layer of horizontal wires. Tie these to the supports as for the fi rst layer.

• Once you have a branch at each side of each tier, remove the central leader. All the effort to go into the side shoots. 11

• If you have small branches in between the wires, trim them off. They are not needed. Now the central leader can be allowed to grow up to the next layer over the next 6-12 months. As it produces side shoots at the level of the next tier, train one to each side of the wire.

You will need...

NewcastleOrange

Rockhampton

Mackay

Wodonga

Blackall

Longreach

Warwick

QLD

NSW

VIC

TAS

Summer 2010–2011Regional Garden Diary

Tropical

Subtropical

Temperate

Cool

Arid

REGIONAL MAP

Portulacas will power on through the most relentless of summer heat or drought and come in a range of striking colours. This spreading succulent annual loves full sun and any well-drained soil, including poor and sandy soils. Give them a prune if they become leggy. Flowers

Sow ageratum, aster, balsam, celosia, cockscomb, coleus, gomphrena, impatiens, marigold, salvia, sunflower, torenia, vinca and zinnia.

HerbsPlant basil, chives, coriander, fennel, gotu kola, heliotrope, lemongrass, mint, parsley, tarragon and winter savoury.

Fruit & VegetablesPlant artichoke, beans, capsicum, celery, Chinese cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, kohlrabi, leek, lettuce, melons, okra, onion, potato (tubers), pumpkin, radish, rhubarb (crowns), rosella, silver beet, spring onion, squash, sweet corn, sweet potato and tomato.

More advice...Spray roses with Searles Rose Pro to prevent black spot. Cut back excessive growth on herbs to prevent them becoming lanky. This will also reduce fungal infections caused by humidity.

Subtropical — Coastal

FlowersSow balsam, celosia, cockscomb, coleus, gomphrena, marigold, petunia, salvia, sunflower, torenia and vinca.

HerbsPlant basil, coriander, lemongrass, mint and tarragon.

Fruit & VegetablesPlant artichoke, beetroot, capsicum, cauliflower, celery, Chinese cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, lettuce, pumpkin, radish, shallots, spring onion and tomato.

More advice...Prepare garden beds in readiness for next season’s vegetables. To discourage hibiscus beetle, pick up and dispose of spent hibiscus flowers. Keep the fertiliser up to citrus trees as nutrients are constantly being lost with the rain.

Tropical — Wet & Dry Tropics

South-east Qld& Northern NSW

North Queensland

Cold & Southern Tableland areas

Temperate areas

FlowersPlant ageratum, alyssum, cineraria, cleome, cyclamen, forget-me-not, Iceland poppy, lobelia, lupin, marigold, pansy, petunia, phlox, primula, stock, verbena, wallflower and zinnia.

HerbsPlant basil, chives, coriander, lemongrass, marjoram, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, tarragon and thyme.

Fruit and vegetablesPlant beans, beetroot, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, cauliflower, cucumber, English spinach, kohlrabi, leek, lettuce, onion, parsnip, pumpkin, radish, silver beet, spring squash, swede, sweet corn, tomato, turnip and zucchini.

More advice...Water flowering annuals and vegetable gardens as required. Snap off withered rhododendron trusses. Watch potted house plants for dry-out and feed with diluted Searles Fish & Kelp Plus when watering. Apply Searles Flourish Tomato & Vegetable fortnightly for tastier vegetables and bigger blooms. Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, snails and caterpillars. Give Japanese and Siberian iris clumps a deep watering as they come into flower.

FlowersPlant ageratum, alyssum, boronia, calceolaria, cleome, cyclamen, Iceland poppy, linaria, malope, marigold, pansy, schizanthus, stock, verbena, vinca, viola and wallflower.

HerbsPlant basil, chives, coriander, fennel, gotu kola, heliotrope, lovage, mint, parsley and tarragon.

Fruit & VegetablesPlant beans (dwarf and climbing), beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, cauliflower, celery, chicory, chilli, Chinese cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, endive, kohlrabi, leek, lettuce, okra, parsnip, potato (tubers), radish, rhubarb (crowns), shallots, silver beet, spring onion, sweet corn, sweet potato and zucchini.

More advice...Mulch the entire garden thoroughly. Before laying turf, sprinkle one handful of Searles Kickalong Complete Organic Plant Food per square metre and rake in well. Water well after laying turf to help it establish. Prune wisteras. Feed all food crops fortnightly. Feed azaleas, camellias and gardenias fortnightly with Searles Flourish Azalea, Camellia & Gardenia. Avoid overwatering watermelon once it starts to set fruit as this can result in a watery, tasteless crop.

MelbourneSydney

Put netting over mangoes to protect them from marauding birds as they are ripening on the tree. After harvest, feed trees generously with Searles Kickalong Fruit & Flower organic plant food.

Be sun-smart this summer. Limit your gardening to early morning and late afternoon to avoid the worst heat and solar radiation of the day. Always wear a broad-rimmed hat, long sleeved shirt and keep a bottle of drinking water handy whenever you’re in the sun.

A dwarf variety of native frangipani (Hymenosporum fl avum), ‘Gold Nugget’ grows little over a metre tall and bears highly fragrant fl owers in late spring and summer. Plant in full sun or light shade, mulch well and clip to maintain bushiness. Dislikes wind and heavy frost.

Ripening Bowen mangoes

Variegated abelia (Abelia grandifl ora variegata) is an attractive, evergreen shrub or hedging plant (1m x 1m) with yellow variegations on the leaves. Easy to grow and very hardy, it bears masses of rose and white coloured fl owers through summer and autumn. Plant in full sun or part shade.

Native frangipani ‘Gold Nugget’ (Hymenosporum fl avum)

Little Evodia (Melicope rubra)

Frangipani (Plumeria rubra)

12 13

Grey myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia)

Eucalyptus ‘Summer Red’ (Corymbia)Eucalyptus ‘Summer Red’ (Corymbia)aa

Trees for small spaces

Give plants a fortnightly application of Searles Liquid Seaweed to help them cope with stress from summer heat, wind, sunburn and dry periods.

Pawpaws are easy to grow and should crop within 9 months of planting. Give them a sunny position, keep moist through the summer and feed with Searles Kickalong Organic Fruit & Flower. Purchase only bisexual plants from garden centres to ensure they fruit.

NewcastleOrange

Rockhampton

Mackay

Wodonga

Blackall

Longreach

Warwick

QLD

NSW

VIC

TAS

Summer 2010–2011

Hints & tips

Tropical

Subtropical

Temperate

Cool

Arid

REGIONAL MAP

Clumping bamboo is non-invasive, has a shallow root system, is fast growing and is great for screening to a wide range of heights. With varieties suited to both sun and shade, they are easy to grow and are excellent for landscaping.

For an outstanding cropping season, make sure you keep the water and fertiliser up to your citrus trees through the summer. Give all trees a thick layer of mulch to conserve water and keep the roots cool, especially on young trees.

Australian clematis (Clematis aristata) is a tough vine that can climb about 6m high in sun or part shade. Masses of starry fl owers appear from spring to summer and are followed by fl uffy seed heads. Although not fussy about soil, it prefers moisture and good drainage. Tolerates frost and drought.

The starry, white fl owers and delicious perfume of the stephanotis are a delight in the summer garden. Give it a warm, sunny position, a rich, well-drained soil and a trellis or support to grow on as it grows up to 5m high. Don’t overwater in winter or let it get too cold.

Native paper daisies (Bracteantha spp.) will fl ower almost year-round but need a good layer of mulch and regular watering during very hot, dry periods.

The delicious fragrance of gardenias is a summertime delight. These hardy beauties fl ower in full sun or light shade and love plenty of compost and a slightly acidic soil. Keep them well mulched to conserve water and feed fortnightly with Searles Flourish Azalea, Camellia & Gardenia soluble plant food.

Angelonia ‘Angel Mist’ bears an abundance of fl owers throughout summer. Extremely heat and drought tolerant, they are ideal in mixed containers and excellent as a cut fl ower. Plant in full sun for best fl owering.

Australian native bees (Trigona carbonaria) are great for small gardens and perfect for pollinating fruit trees and vegetables. Being stingless, these tiny, black bees are safe for families with small children and pets. Contact your local garden centre for more info on how you can start harvesting your own honey!

Your garden is a haven to relax and escape from daily life, so give outdoor seating and furniture a vantage point to take in beautiful garden vistas such as water features, fl owering trees or garden artwork.

Golden Candles (Pachystachys lutea) is a delightful evergreen shrub (1–1.5mH) which bears its ‘candles’ (actually golden-yellow bracts) from spring until autumn. Suited to a tropical or subtropical climate, it prefers frost-free conditions, light shade and a moist, well-drained soil.

Lomandra is a hardy native, closely related to the grass tree (Xanthorroea). Excellent in rockeries and borders, it tolerates heat, poor soils, dry conditions and humidity. Low maintenance once established.

Lomandra ‘Little Cricket’

Blossom from a lemon tree

Mona Lavender (Plectranthus sp.) fl owers beautifully in full or part shade. Flowering from late summer into autumn, it forms a low bush 60cmW x 80cmH. Give it moist, well-drained soil, prune gently after fl owering and Searles Robust Plus controlled release fertiliser in spring. Protect from frost.

‘Ghost’ (Dendrocalamus minor var amoenus)

The delightful iceberg rose fl owers profusely for most of the year and is one of the most easy-care and disease-resistant roses available. Try new varieties Iceberg Brilliant Pink and Iceberg Burgundy (pictured) for a change from the traditional white.

Pentas make it easy to create colour in semi-shade. Tolerating summer humidity and attracting butterfl ies, they also grow easily from cuttings. Prune occasionally to keep compact.

Pentas make it easy to create colour

Protect herbs, vegetables, trees and shrubs from possums, kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, hares, bandicoots, deer, foxes and other wildlife.Protect vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, seedlings and buildings from cockatoos, crows, ducks, pigeons, rosellas, starlings, swallows, other birds & bats.Protects homes, gardens, patios, shop fronts and paved areas from both dogs and cats or rats and mice.

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A passionfruit vine twines around ripening pawpaw.

Remember that even the most drought-tolerant of plants will need watering while they are establishing, so water every day for the first two weeks after planting.

PoinsettiaIt’s Christmas and garden centres are brimming with new fashion poinsettias! These yule-tide beauties are charming as a table setting, but plant them outside as soon as the festivities are over.

Poinsettias grow best in full sun and can die if keep indoors for more than two weeks. They also fl ower naturally in winter, so Aussie gardeners can expect them fl owering again in 6 months time!

Euphorbia milliiFamous for its spiny, cactus-like stems, Euphorbia millii is native to Madagascar and is a stunning and tough performer. Its showy ‘fl owers’ (actually bracts), appear throughout summer and come in a range of warm, tropical colours like cream, yellow, apricot and cherry-red. Rarely affected by pests or diseases, give it a light, well-drained soil, feed occasionally and water well during the growing season for best results. It makes an excellent indoor plant in a bright, sunny room.

Stunning summer shrubsWith the easy-care nature of trees and compact enough to replace some of our most popular fl owering annuals, these fl owering shrubs can liven up a courtyard, balcony or forgotten corner with effortless colour and foliage.

Swamp Banksia(Banksia robur)This hardy and dramatic little shrub grows to about 2 metres in height. Although its most profuse fl owering period is in autumn, the bird-attracting fl ower heads are borne sporadically throughout the year and the highly decorative seed heads can remain on the bush for years. It grows naturally in swamps and so will enjoy a damp corner of the garden, but will also grow in much drier conditions. Give it full sun for best fl owering.

MandevillaThis well-behaved and prolifi c fl owering vine can be easily trained into a bush or small shrub with a minimal amount of pruning. Despite its lush, tropical appearance, it is actually very tolerant of dry conditions because of its water-storing, rhizomous roots. Plant it in rich, well drained soil or in a large pot or tub of Searles Peat 80 Plus potting mix and boost blooms throughout the summer with regular watering and an application of Searles Flourish Soluble Plant Food every two weeks. Don’t overwater in winter.

Cleome ‘Senorita Rosalita’

Euphorbia millii

Swamp banksia seed heads

Euphorbia‘Diamond Frost’This seemingly bullet-proof plant will fl ower throughout the year. Its delicate white fl owers provide perpetual highlights throughout the garden where it can offset the bolder fl owers or foliage of other garden plants beautifully. It’s great in a pot or by the pool and tough throughout dry periods. Give it full sun for best fl owering. It grows to a mound-shape up to 1m tall and wide, and responds well to light pruning in the summer months.

Cleome‘Senorita Rosalita’This little beauty is so easy to grow and never seems to stop fl owering. Preferring full sun and a free-draining soil, this North American native forms a mounding bush about 1m high. Senorita Rosalita fl owers profusely from the beginning of spring until the end of autumn, will not self-seed, does not need deadheading and will not become leggy or stop fl owering in hot weather. Being drought and heat

tolerant as well as attracting birds and butterfl ies, this is the perfect, low maintenance landscaping plant.

Bougainvillea‘Bambino’These bougainvilleas grow about 1m tall and offer an exciting range of colours. Give them a warm, sunny position and a regular, light pruning to keep them neat, removing any strong shoots as soon as they appear.

a.

Mandevilla

Euphorbia ‘Diamond Frost’

n tolerant as well as attracting

Bougainvillea ‘Bambino’

NEWSUN

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Poinsettia ‘Princettia Bright Pink’16 17

Poincettia ‘Assorted’

Poinsettia ‘Princettia Candy Pink’

Most lilly pillies have colourful new growth to rival any fl ower.

The fruit of the small leaved lilly pilly or ‘riberry’ (Syzygium luehmannii) is

known for its fl avoursome berries.

Weeping lilly pilly (Waterhousia fl oribunda)

Brush cherry (Syzygium australe) in blossom

lilly pilly

The fruit of the small leaved lilly pilly

Weeping lilly pilly (Waterhousia

ry (Syzygium australe) in blossom

LovelyThe lilly pilly is an evergreen rainforest plant that has it all: beautiful fl owers, attractive, edible fruit, glossy leaves with colourful new growth and the ability to attract native rainforest birds and butterfl ies to the garden. They’re also easy to grow and are suited to most Australian soils, so why not plant one this summer?

Lilly pilly are easy to establish, will grow in sun or shade and are not fussy about soil. Lilly pilly is the common name for a group of Australian native rainforest plants which range in size from small, compact shrubs no more than a metre in height to giant, rainforest emergents exceeding heights of 45 metres. Related to eucalyptus and including around 1100 different species, lilly pillies are now categorised under four separate genus names: eugenia, syzygium, acmena and waterhousia. Whatever the name, lilly pillies are best known for their distinctive, berry-like fruit, some varieties of which are pleasant-tasting enough to be eaten straight off the tree, others make a refreshing cordial or conserve.

suited to most home gardens and offer a wide range of very compact varieties, but always ask if you’re not sure. If you want the plants to imitate the look of English box in hedging or topiary or are after a very formal look, it may be worth selecting varieties that are especially resistant to psyllid attack (see ‘Pests and diseases’) such as Acmena smithii and Syzygium luehmannii. Information about fruit, fl ower and new growth colour can usually be found on the label.

PlantingWhile lilly pillies are not fussy plants, taking the extra time to properly prepare the soil before planting can help reduce your lilly pilly’s watering needs in its early

What you’ll need...

Powderpuff lilly pilly (Syzygiumwilsonii) blossoms.

18 19

years. Dig up a section of the soil about the same depth and at least three times the width of the pot the lilly pilly came in, mixing in plenty of compost and an organic fertiliser such as Searles Kickalong Organic Native Plant Food. You may also wish to mix in some Searles Water Crystals at this stage. If the soil is very heavy clay, it may help to dig in some sand and break up the clay more thoroughly. Plant the lilly pilly in the centre of the hole, backfi ll and tamp down gently so that the soil sits at the same level as the soil from the pot. Finally, water it well and add a generous layer of mulch.

WateringYoung lilly pillies will grow and establish more quickly if they are kept moist. Water every

day for the fi rst two weeks after planting and continue to water a new lilly pilly occasionally for the fi rst few years of its life. To test for dryness, push your fi nger through the mulch and a couple of centimetres into the soil. The soil should be moist but not wet. Established lilly pillies should not need watering.

MulchingMaintaining a layer of mulch about 5cm thick will keep the roots cool during hot weather and limit the need for watering. Reapply it every 6 months, depending on the material.

FertilisingFor healthy growth, young lilly pillies will benefi t from a dose of Searles Kickalong Organic Native Plant Food every three months during the growing season.

Syzygium ‘Cascade’ blossoms.

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Choosing a varietyGiven the size variation in lilly pilly species, it’s important to select a plant that won’t outgrow your garden, especially if space is limited. Garden centres will usually stock only varieties

psyllid scarring

gardeners consider this unsightly, but it does not seriously harm the plant and usually disappears as plants mature. Excessive psyllid activity can be a sign of plant stress, usually from lack of water. Affected foliage can be removed and spraying with Searles Conguard can prevent further psyllid damage.

Pests and diseasesMany young lilly pillies are affected by an insect called a psyllid. This is a tiny, native, cicada-like insect whose young suck sap from the foliage (usually the new growth), causing a scar that resembles a tiny pimple on the leaf. Some

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Ornamental gingers are related to the edible ginger (Zingiber offi cinale) that we buy in the supermarket, but are known for their spectacular appearance rather than culinary uses. The entire ginger family comprises about 1200 herbaceous plant species; the majority of which are native to tropical south east Asia. For Australian home gardeners, there is an enormous variety to choose from — from dwarf forms like the globbas which seldom reach more than 50cm high and have delicate, often cascading fl owers — to the large and spectacular Torch gingers which can grow 3–6 metres high and produce tall fl ower spikes which are so intensely coloured as to look unreal! If

you want a really spectacular plant as a feature in your garden, you can’t go past the Torch Ginger (Etlingera elatior). With tall stems and unbelievable fl owers, these plants are the ‘queens’ of the ginger family. They come in several different colours — red, pink and white — and are extremely attractive both in the garden and as cut fl owers. You’ll need a large vase to accommodate them!

Ginger varietiesGingers are all closely related, but are not necessarily the same genus, so their uses and cultural requirements are varied. Some gingers have fragrant fl owers and others have spicy foliage. Most gingers have long-lasting blooms, and many have beautifully marked foliage that make fl owers a bonus. The hedychiums (butterfl y gingers) and some species of costus are the most fragrant types of ginger.

Beehive gingersBeehive gingers (Zingiber spectabilis) are a group of gingers which produce fl owering spikes at the base of the plant with pouch-like infl orescence bracts which create the impression of a beehive. They come in a wide range of colours — green, yellow, red and even

chocolate and produce ‘day fl owers’ which pop out from between the bracts in many different colours. These fl owers are often variegated or spotted which gives them a resemblance to tiny orchids. Most beehive gingers are evergreen. These plants certainly deserve a place in your garden; and their fl owers in your home.

Deciduous bulbsSome gingers are deciduous. Many of these are shade lovers whilst some will grow in full sun. The Thai tulip (Cucuma alismatifolia) likes the sun and makes a stunning pot plant for the summer. It’s one of the few bulbs that can really give you a ‘wow’ in the tropics and subtropics. Cucuma ‘Voodo Magic’ with burgundy fl owers performs well in sun or semi-shade. For shady spots, varieties such as the pink fl owered Jewel of Thailand (Cucuma cordata) or the brilliant orange fl owered Jewel of Burma (Cucuma roscoeana) will surprise you in early spring with their display of beautifully coloured bracts and day fl owers.

Alpinias — the reliable tropicalThe popular Shell Ginger (Alpinia zurumbet) is a reliable plant in tropical

Nothing can bring an intense, tropical look to your garden like ornamental gingers. Whether grown in the ground or in a pot, their stunning, almost plastic-looking bracts and lush foliage can bring exotic and extravagant beauty to any frost-free corner of your garden.

gardens. The variegated variety is proving especially popular. This bushy plant can grow to 2 metres and produces clusters of pale pink/white fl owers which hang at the ends of the stems. The yellow and green foliage makes a beautiful contrast to other green plants. Its relative, the Alpinia purpurata has pink/red infl orescences but is a little harder to grow outside the tropics.

Extra careIn the tropics and subtropics, most gingers are easy to look after and grow quickly in the summer months. Give them a well drained, organically enriched soil and plenty of water during establishment. Flowering is usually profuse but if your specimen is a little shy, some Searles Liquid Potash Plus will encourage fl owering. They require little maintenance except for trimming off old fl ower spikes and old leaves. Throughout

the growing season, gingers can be fed once a month with Searles Fish & Kelp Plus for good health and vigour. While they are in bloom, increase the frequency to every 2-3 weeks.

Light requirements Most gingers prefer bright, indirect light or fi ltered sun. However, their tolerances are pretty wide — they just might not bloom. The globbas and kaempferias can tolerate medium light, so can be a better choice for growing indoors. All other varieties need high light levels in order to fl ower.

WateringDuring the growing season gingers like consistent moisture, but don’t let potted specimens stand in water. In winter, the evergreen species needs to be allowed to dry between watering.

So if you want to add a little spice to your garden, choose a ginger — there’s one to suit any situation.

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Roses

Big bloomingclimbers

Perpetual

bloomers

Spring herbs

Cucumber

Decadent fruits

Hedges Part 2

For more gardening hints & tips, visit www.aboutthegarden.com.au

gardening hints & tips, visit www.aboutthegarden.com.auSpring 2010

RRRRRRRRRRoosesNEW RELEASE

bout the Garden

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EspaliersOrnamental gingers

Poolside plants Avocado trees

Lemon-scented plantsSummer fl owers

Lilly pillies

Ixoras

For more gardening hints & tips, visit www.aboutthegarden.com.au

Summer 2010–2011

Some gingers are deciduous (including many of the costus family) in which case plant them in an area that can be kept a little dryer in the winter months while they are

dormant.

torch ginger (Etlingera elatior)jewel of Burma (Cucuma roscoeana) beehive ginger (Zingiber spectabilis)

beehive ginger (Zingiber spectabilis) Siam tulip (Curcuma alismatifolia)

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Dimethoate 300: Is a systemic insecticide which provides effective control of a range of insect pests (including fruit fly, aphids, leaf miner and thrips) on fruit trees and other plants in and around the garden.

Weedkiller: provides effective control of most broadleaf weeds and grasses. 1 litre of concentrate’ Makes up to 100 Litres of ready-to-use weedkiller.

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Blooms to beat the heat

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For quick and easy colour through the hot season, you can’t go past these summer fl owering bedding plants.FoFgog

bacopa

New Guinea impatiens Osteospermum ‘Trentbridge’

For an easy care, spreading plant with masses of lavender or white fl owers throughout the warm season, try bacopa. Excellent in hanging baskets, in rockeries or as a ground cover, give it full sun or part shade and moist, well-drained soil.

For that shady spot, you can’t go past New

Guinea Impatiens for

dazzling colour. They do best in full shade or outdoor fi ltered light. Perfect for pots, hanging baskets and outdoor garden beds. Keep them moist and protect from frost. Also look out for ‘Sunpatiens’ which grow in full sun.

For reliable, low maintenance colour throughout the warmer times of year, you can’t go

past Osteospermum daisies. Plant in full sun and water until established. Tolerates seaside conditions and light frost.

There are few herbaceous plants that offer the colour intensity of the daisy-like dahlia. This native to Mexico fl owers in a range of colours including bright white, yellow and deep red and range from tall border

plants to low-growing bedding perennials. Plant in full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

Petunias offer the biggest fl ower colour range of perhaps any warm season annual. Give them full sun and a compost-rich soil and make sure their shallow roots are kept moist. Regular removal of spent blooms will promote more fl owering. Try the spreading or trailing varieties for landscaping applications.

Aussie native ‘Sunny Daze’ (Hibbertia obtusifolia) will dazzle

with its large, buttercup yellow fl owers and is great for landscaping. Plant it in full sun. Tolerant of drought and light frost.

For a range of bright colours in just about any climate, you can’t go past salvias. There are a huge range of salvias but most need a sunny position and a moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil for best results. Salvias are easy to grow from cuttings or grown from seed in spring.

Cooling herbs can bring an extra dimension to summer salads and drinks. Try salad burnett (for a fl avour as cool as a cucumber), mint or Vietnamese mint for a peppery, coriander-like zing!

Cooling herbs can bring an extra dimension to summer

Cooling summer herbs

dahlia petunia ‘Sunny Daze’ salvia

salad burnett

Give summer herbs a boost with Searles Fish & Kelp Plus — a health tonic and plant food all in one.

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