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Garden-fresh asparagus soup

<p>Love the healthy snap of a bright-green new-season asparagus stalk? Enjoy their uniquely grassy, sweet flavour and their healthy-bacteria-boosting proteins in this fresh and uplifting soup.</p> <p><strong>Ingredients:</strong></p> <ul> <li>2 tablespoons butter</li> <li>2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to serve</li> <li>2 spring onions (scallions), finely chopped, plus extra, curled in cold water, to serve</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon curry powder</li> <li>1/4 teaspoon ground ginger</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric grated zest and juice of 1 lemon</li> <li>2 medium turnips, peeled and diced</li> <li>750 ml (3 cups) vegetable stock</li> <li>270 ml tin additive-free coconut milk</li> <li>175 g (1 bunch) asparagus, cut into 1.5 cm pieces</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon Celtic sea salt</li> <li>freshly cracked black pepper, to taste</li> </ul> <p><strong>Directions:</strong></p> <ol> <li>Melt the butter with the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.</li> <li>Add the spring onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft. Add the curry powder, ginger, turmeric, lemon zest, juice and turnip and cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes.</li> <li>Add the stock, coconut milk and asparagus, and simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes or until the turnip is tender, then add the salt.</li> <li>Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly, then purée the mixture in batches in a food processor or blender until smooth.</li> <li>Reheat gently if necessary, then drizzle with olive oil, grind over black pepper and garnish with curled spring onion.</li> </ol> <p><em>Recipe and image from <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.murdochbooks.com.au/browse/books/healthy-cooking/Heal-Your-Gut-Lee-Holmes-9781743365601" target="_blank"><span>'Heal Your Gut'</span></a> by Lee Holmes (Murdoch Books).</em></p> <p><em>Republished with permission of <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/garden-fresh-asparagus-soup.aspx" target="_blank">Wyza.com.au</a>. </em></p>

Lifestyle

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5 ways to enrich garden soil

<p>Healthier garden soil means healthier plants. It is the foundation of successful gardening and thus worth paying attention to.</p> <p>Here are 5 ways you can enrich your garden soil.</p> <p><strong>1. Spread grass</strong></p> <div id="page1" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>Grass clippings add nutrients as they decompose. They also provide shade, keeping roots cool and reducing water loss in hot weather.</p> <p>Mix them with leaf litter or dig into the soil to avoid them forming a mat that will repel water.</p> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"><strong>2. Use manure</strong></div> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"> <div id="page2" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>Cow manure improves soil micro-organisms and chicken manure, which is high in nitrogen and phosphorus, is great for the lawn and vegie patch.</p> <p><strong>TIP:</strong><span> </span>Don’t use manure from carnivores, such as dogs and cats.</p> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"><strong>3. Lay straw</strong></div> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"> <div id="page3" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>Lucerne hay and pea straw strengthen the soil, so they’re highly recommended. They also break down fairly quickly, which gives the soil a quick nutrient injection, and can be dug in to speed up the process.</p> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"><strong>4. Use bark</strong></div> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"> <div id="page4" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>These mulches take longer to break down, so they don’t need applying as often.</p> <p>They shade the soil, help retain moisture, repel weeds and look decorative, but don’t add many nutrients to the plants.</p> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"><strong>5. Add compost</strong></div> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"> <div id="page5" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>A well-rounded source of goodness, compost allows water to penetrate the soil. It provides slow-release nutrients, attracts worms and encourages a healthy root system. Best of all, you can make it from kitchen scraps.</p> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"> <p><em>Written by Handyman. Republished with permission of </em><a href="https://www.handyman.net.au/5-ways-enrich-garden-soil"><em>Handyman</em></a><em>. </em></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Lifestyle

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How to know what weeds to pull and what to leave in the garden

<p>One of the least favourite but essential chores that must be performed regularly in the garden would have to be weeding.</p> <p>Because they are often attractive, easy-to-grow plants that thrive, weeds can quickly become invasive and destroy other less rigorous plants if they are left unchecked.</p> <p>The Australian government has produced a<span> </span><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/weeds/weeds/lists/wons.html" target="_blank">national watchlist</a><span> </span>of plants that should be avoided in your garden at all costs.</p> <p>If allowed to take root and spread, they quickly turn the backyard into an unkempt mess.</p> <p>Manager of the government’s National Weeds Strategy Project John Thorp, says, ‘Weeds are any plants growing out of place, such as on paths, in lawns or in a home garden, that a person wishes to control.’</p> <div class="advertisements"><strong>State of origin</strong></div> <div class="advertisements"> <p>Location is key in weed warfare, as species that are classified as a dangerous weed in a particular state or territory may be seen as a welcome garden plant in another.</p> <p>“Australia is affected in most places by weeds, but they change because we go from the tropics to temperate climates,” says John.</p> <p>“What may be an indoor plant in Tasmania could easily be considered a weed in the tropics.</p> <p>“You also get subtropical vines which scramble over canopies.</p> <p>“They’re a problem, especially in the Macleay River area in New South Wales where they really damage the bushland,” says John.</p> <p><strong>Garden invaders</strong></p> <p>There are 32 weeds listed by the federal government as having national significance.</p> <p>Many, including the most common one, lantana, are referred to as garden escapes.</p> <p>“That is, they’ve literally escaped from the garden,” explains John.</p> <p>“Birds typically spread the plants by picking up the seeds and flying over the neighbour’s place, dropping a few along the way and eventually heading into bushland.</p> <p>“The culprits include a range of black birds like the currawongs, which are frugivores.”</p> <p>Some of the most common backyard plants that turn into weeds this way include the fast-growing asparagus weed, which the birds prey on for their berries.</p> <p>Other widespread garden weeds are brooms, which come in different coloured varieties but are most common with yellow flowers.</p> <p>All types of broom, regardless of colour, are prolific seed producers. Cat’s claw creeper, Madeira vine and cacti are also garden weeds.</p> <p>“Cacti are a major problem if you are in a dry place,” says John.</p> <p>“Australia was overrun at one time with a type of cactus, the prickly pear. The opuntioid cacti are a whole group of plants that could easily invade entire dry parts of Australia.”</p> <p><strong>Plant right</strong></p> <p>To ensure the plants that are stocked are not dangerous to the environment, every Bunnings store has a Greenlife Buyer.</p> <p>National Greenlife Buyer David Hardie says one of the key selection criteria is suitability for local climate and conditions.</p> <p>“Our team also works closely with regulators to ensure we are always stocking the right plants,” he said.</p> <p>“Bunnings is committed to not selling environmental weeds that may have a negative impact on the natural environment.”</p> <p>David adds there are now more non- or less-invasive plant cultivars than in the past and recommends the state and territory plant guide at,<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://www.growmeinstead.com.au/" target="_blank">Grow Me Instead</a>.</p> <p>To control weeds, there is a wide range of herbicides and weedmats available instore. Mulching is a good way to prevent them occurring in the first place, as is cutting spent flowerheads from plants.</p> <p><strong>Disposal methods</strong></p> <p>Once a plant becomes a concern, it needs to be eradicated completely by preventing seeding and reproduction.</p> <p>“But the real problem with weeds spreading and propagating isn’t the birds, it is humans incorrectly disposing of garden waste,” says John.</p> <p>“Many people dump waste in the bush or recycle clippings as mulch thinking they’re being green, but it’s really just spreading weeds further.</p> <p>“The correct disposal method for a large amount of material is using an enclosed system like a skip bin, or taking the waste to the tip, making sure that it is tied down securely in a trailer.</p> <p>“Otherwise, use the green bin and dispose of clippings, weeds and other waste material through your normal rubbish removal service.”</p> <p>John also gives the big thumbs down to the backyard burn-off.</p> <p>“It is illegal in many parts of Australia, especially in summer, and the heat from a burn-off opens seeds so they can germinate. Weed residue can also be carried in the smoke.”</p> <p>Weeds are also a major problem in waterways, as they damage and pollute delicate aqua ecosystems.</p> <p><strong>Water invaders</strong></p> <p>“Athel pine is a shade tree which people use in arid lands,” says John.</p> <p>“It becomes weedy and, like the water hyacinth, which was once an attractive pond plant with its blue flowers, it invades major watercourses.</p> <p>“They are presently trying to control 600km of it in the Finke River, which is the largest dry river in the world, running from above Alice Springs to below the South Australian border.</p> <p>“These trees are often found in recreation areas, caravan parks and the banks of rivers,” says John.</p> <p>Many of the 100 willow tree varieties pose a double threat as they grow on both land and water.</p> <p>“Willows have a very short seed life, from two to six weeks, and this very brief propagation period means they can cross-pollinate and produce seed rapidly, so they’re now threatening our waterways.”</p> <p><strong>Growth season</strong></p> <p>The vigour of a weed’s growth depends on which time of year the rainfall occurs.</p> <p>For most of southern Australia, this would be in spring and for the tropical north in summer.</p> <p>Regardless of location, rainfall and season, once any type of weed takes hold, it’s hard work getting rid of it.</p> <p>“If you are going to successfully keep weeds down, you can never take the pressure off, as it requires dedicated persistence to keep them under control,” says John.</p> <p><strong>Pulling weeds</strong></p> <p>The Sydney Weeds Committee offers advice on how to weed manually.</p> <p>Always wear gloves and use a hand trowel to remove the entire root so the plant can’t resprout from any remaining root system.</p> <p><strong>RAKE</strong><span> </span>background mulch.</p> <p><strong>INSERT</strong><span> </span>the trowel and carefully loosen the soil around the roots.</p> <p><strong>PULL</strong><span> </span>the plant free, grasping it by the stems or the leaves while freeing the roots with the trowel.</p> <p><strong>REMOVE</strong><span> </span>the plant and shake off the excess soil.</p> <p><strong>REPLACE</strong><span> </span>the disturbed soil and any ground mulch.</p> <p>Place the entire plant or any part capable of reproducing, such as tubers, rhizomes, berries, seeds or other propagules in a bag and remove from the site.</p> <p>Other debris material can be mulched on site.</p> <em>Written by Handyman. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.handyman.net.au/how-know-what-weeds-pull-and-what-leave-garden">Handyman</a>.</em></div>

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10 must-read insider tips to save you money on gardening

<div class="field field-name-field-intro field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>Whether you buy materials from a farmer’s market, local farmers or chain hardware stores, here’s everything you need to know to get your garden growing on a budget.</p> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>1. Grow what you eat</strong></p> <p>While this may seem like common sense, it’s easy to get carried away when buying seeds and plants for your garden. Realistically, if you don’t eat a certain vegetable or herb now (kohlrabi and purslane, we’re looking at you), you probably won’t eat it even if you grow it. Save yourself time and money by only buying seeds and plants that you know you and your family will eat. </p> <p><strong>2. Buy seeds early in the year</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>According to Celeste Longacre, gardening expert and author of Celeste’s Garden Delights, you’ll find the biggest selection of seeds and the best deals in spring. “Many catalogues offer discounts if you buy the seeds before a certain date,” Longacre says. “Companies can also run out of specific varieties so you’ll want to get your order right in.” But you don’t need to plant seeds for every vegetable you intend to eat in the coming months. </p> <p><strong>3. Buy gardening equipment in autumn</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>Most stores try to clear out their gardening supplies in autumn. You’ll find gardening equipment – like shovels, spades, rakes and buckets – at heavily discounted prices that you can use for next year’s garden. Another great idea is to source good quality second-hand items.</p> <p><strong>4. Go in on seeds with your friends</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>It may seem counterintuitive, but the more you spend, the more you save, thanks to lower prices for higher volume. “Many companies offer deals if you spend a certain amount of money,” says Longacre. “If you get together with friends on your order, you can save.” If agreeing on seeds is a challenge in your friend circle, consider other uses for your yield. </p> <p><strong>5. Plant crops thicker than they actually grow</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>You can plant crops like beets, carrots, onions, lettuce, basil and rocket closer together than traditionally prescribed, according Longacre. For example, instead of planting seeds 25mm apart, plant them 13mm apart. This way you can thin them out and eat the thinnings while the crop continues growing. </p> <p><strong>6. Hit up a local farm's harvest sale</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>The harvest sale is basically the equivalent of a half-yearly or anniversary sale, so you can expect to find amazing deals. Harvest sales usually happen between late March and early May, with the majority being held in April. The earlier in the harvest season you go, the more options you’ll have when it comes to crops, but if you wait longer into May, you’re more likely to nab lower prices, as farmers are trying to unload crops for winter.</p> <p><strong>7. Invest in quality equipment</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>Spending a little more on quality equipment will be worth it in the long run. Not only will you avoid having to re-buy the same gear each year, but you’re also be less likely to deal with stuff breaking mid-season. Equipment worth spending a little extra on: weeders, shears and pitchforks. But no need to buy fancy or expensive pots and planters. Regular, plastic ones will do.</p> <p><strong>8. Tend to your garden regularly</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>There will be days when crawling on your hands and knees through the dirt doesn’t sound all too appealing, but doing just that is necessary in order to keep your garden healthy. If you get behind on watering, your plants will die, and you’ll have to spend more on new seeds. If you don’t treat a bug invasion right away, it’ll only get worse and cause more damage, both to your plants and your pockets. “The hardest part of gardening is that things need to be done when they need to be done, not when you feel like doing it,” says Longacre. </p> <p><strong>9. Ask about inventory</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>A lot of stores offer discounted prices for products that they no longer sell, but still have in back stock. Just make sure you ask why they’ve pulled the product before buying because you don’t want to end up with a mower that doesn’t run or seeds that won’t grow in your climate. “Go to their websites and look for discontinued or clearance items,” advises Longacre.</p> <p><strong>10. Plant at the right time</strong></p> <div class="views-field views-field-field-slides"> <div class="field-content"> <div class="field-collection-view clearfix view-mode-full field-collection-view-final"> <div class="entity entity-field-collection-item field-collection-item-field-slides clearfix"> <div class="content"> <div class="field field-name-field-slide-content field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item even"> <p>If you plant your crops too early, they will die. And if you pick your crops too late, they will also die. Timing is everything when it comes to planting your garden. You simply need to choose the right produce for the season and do a bit of research on the climate in your area before selecting when to plant your seeds. </p> <p><em>Source:<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.rd.com/home/gardening/gardening-tips-to-save-money/" target="_blank">RD.com</a></em></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

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How to start a vegetable garden

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Growing your own vegetables can save you money and give you a huge amount of satisfaction. Ready to get a green thumb?</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your own homegrown vegetables taste much better and are fresher than any that you buy in the shops. Fruiting vegetables, like beans, tomatoes, capsicum and sweet corn, have the best flavour if they’re eaten as quickly as possible after harvest; leafy vegetables, such as lettuce, lose water and rapidly become limp, and all vegetables are more nutritious if they are consumed when as fresh as possible. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Growing your own can save a considerable amount on food costs and will also give you a wider choice of vegetables. Unusual vegetables are often difficult to buy in shops, but are easily grown in the home garden. Lots of vegetables are ornamental so can be grown for their good looks as well as their produce.  </span></p> <p><strong>WHEN TO GROW VEGGIES</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vegetables can be loosely grouped according to their growing season.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Cool Season Vegetables:</strong> Grow best when temperatures are between 10-20 degrees C or even lower. They include: broad beans, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, onions, peas, spinach and turnips.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Intermediate Season Vegetables:</strong> These are best between temperatures of 15-25 degrees. They include: beetroot, carrot, parsnip, celery, leek, lettuce, radish, silver beet.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Warm Season vegetables:</strong> Are grown best when temperatures are above 20 degrees celsius. They include: Beans, capsicum, eggplant, potato, sweet corn, sweet potato, tomato and cucurbits (including cucumbers, zucchini, pumpkins etc.) </span></p> <p><strong>VEGETABLE CULTIVATION</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Position:</strong> Vegetables must have sun! Try to select a growing area that is sunny for most of the day, is sheltered, and is close to a source of water. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Soil: S</strong>oil is often the easiest thing to adjust to your growing needs. In fact, strictly speaking, soil is not absolutely necessary. Vegetables can be grown in potting mix or in a hydroponic set up, but the most common medium is still good garden soil. Soil must have good drainage and a good structure. Regular incorporation of old organic matter (such as compost) will keep the soil functioning well. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Nutrients</strong>: Vegetables, more than most other plants, need to be supplied with adequate nutrients.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Mineral fertilisers:</strong> are reliable sources of good quantities of nutrients. Mixes with a balanced NPK ratio are suited to a wide range of crops. Balanced, all-purpose fertilisers, such as Thrive All Purpose, can be mixed into the soil before planting. Soluble fertilisers, such as Thrive, can be applied in liquid form to plants during their early stages of growth. Additional dressings of Sulphate of Potash and Superphosphate may be necessary, especially for fruiting and root crops.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Organic Fertilisers:</strong> are derived from once-living material. They’re excellent for improving soil, but their nutrient levels can be very variable. In recent years, however, increased interest in these products has led to many improvements, with fertilisers such as Dynamic Lifter organic pellets now having guaranteed nutrient levels. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>pH:</strong> pH is the level of acidity or alkalinity in the soil. Most vegetables produce best results if grown at a soil pH level of 6.0 to 7.0. In some areas this may mean adding lime before planting. Checking the pH level of the soil is recommended. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Mulching:</strong> Mulching over plants’ root systems, preferably with an organic mulch, will retain moisture, suppress weeds, reduce temperature fluctuations, and prevent soil crusting. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Watering:</strong> Water thoroughly so that the entire root system of the plant is moistened. Thorough waterings are more effective than light sprinklings. Don’t allow plants to reach wilting point but, conversely, don’t flood them as this washes away nutrients and may cause drainage problems. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Crop rotation:</strong> It’s important to avoid growing successive crops of the same type of vegetable in the same spot in the garden. This practice, which is called crop rotation, helps prevent build up of soil diseases. Seasonal crop changes often lead to natural crop rotation. </span></p> <p><strong>FAVOURITE VEGGIES</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Beans –</strong> Available in dwarf or climbing forms, beans produce pods that are sliced or eaten whole. They must be grown during the warm season. Origin: Tropical America. Nutrition Value: Vitamin C, Vitamin A (beta carotene), iron, fibre and some protein.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Beetroot – T</strong>he deep crimson swollen root of beetroot is cooked in stews and soups or cooled for salads. Its leaves can also be used as a vegetable. Origin: Southern Europe. Nutrition Value: Excellent source of folate.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Brassicas</strong> (cabbages, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts) – All grow better when temperatures are not too hot or too cold although new varieties are more heat tolerant. The introduction of Chinese cabbages and other oriental brassicas has encouraged new culinary uses for this group of vegies. Origin: Europe and Asia. Nutrition Value: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, mineral salts, fibre, protein.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Broad Beans –</strong> Grow on upright bushes during the cooler time of year. The whole pod can be eaten when young or (more commonly) the seeds are removed and cooked. Origin: Prehistoric Europe and ancient Egypt Nutrition Value: High in carbohydrates, fibre, minerals, Vitamin A and Vitamin C.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Vegetable -</strong>garden -carrots -potatoes -wyza -com -au</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you're short of space for growing veggies, try square foot gardening</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Carrot</strong> – A root vegetable that is traditionally bright orange in colour. Must be grown in well-drained, friable soil that is free of stones, fresh manure or fertiliser. Origin: Europe. Nutrition Value: Potassium, carotene (Vitamin A), Vitamin C and fibre.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Cucurbits –</strong> Includes vine plants such as pumpkin, cucumber, zucchini, melons. They must grow during warm season and almost all have separate male and female flowers. Only the females produce fruit. Origin: Tropical America and the Orient. Nutrition Value: Vitamin C, minerals and fibre.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Lettuce –</strong> The most popular salad plant in the world, lettuce is grown for its crisp green leaves. Butterhead lettuce has soft, buttery leaves; crisphead or iceberg have firm, solid hearts; cos has upright, loose leaves. Origin: Mediterranean. Nutrition Value: Carotene (Vitamin A), Vitamin C, fibre.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Onions –</strong> Onions are bulbs with a pungent flavour. The bulb develops in response to day length and correct sowing times are critical for onions. Origin: Central and Western Asia. Nutrition Value: Vitamin C, calcium.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Peas –</strong> The pea is a legume that is grown for its pods or for the seeds they contain. For many centuries peas were eaten only in their dried form but the fresh pea has a sweet, pleasant flavour. Available in dwarf or climbing forms. Origin: Asia and North Africa.Nutrition Value: Protein, fibre, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, mineral salts. One of the most nutritious vegetables.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The underground tuber of a warm season plant that is now one of the world’s staple foods. Easily grown in the home garden but needs plenty of room. Origin: South America. Nutrition Value: Protein, Vitamin C, carbohydrate and fibre.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Sweet Corn</strong> – A warm season cereal that is grown for its sweetly flavoured seeds, sweet corn grows on a tall plant. The seeds must be pollinated by pollen falling from the tassel at the top of the plant. Origin: South America. Nutrition Value: Vitamin C, fibre, minerals and protein.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Tomatoes</strong> – A warm season fruiting vegetable that is popular both in salads and cooked dishes. Fresh tomatoes are best eaten at room temperature. Origin: South and Central America. Nutrition Value: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fibre and protein.</span></p> <p><strong>MATT’S TOP 7 TIPS</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sydney based Landscape Gardener Matt Paton says the secret to growing a great home veggie patch is finding the right location to plant, using a good potting mix and watering regularly. </span></p> <p><strong>1. Choose the best location:</strong> Always plant in a bright and sunny area which is away from any windy spots.This will maximise the growing potential for your vegetables and will help to provide years of fresh vegetables for you and your family.</p> <p><strong>3. When planting in clay:</strong> If you have a clay type soil use a liberal dose of clay breaker or gypson. This powder needs to be worked into the soil with a garden fork (as a guide you should go as deep as the garden fork goes in the soil) for best results. This helps breaks down the clay to release the other vital nutrients in the soil to the plants but must be done several days before planting the seeds.</p> <p><strong>4. Draw up a plan:</strong> Then mark up the spacing with a tape measure and create holes with your finger or a stick to show where you are planning to put the seeds. Then tag the area with whatever is handy such as coloured pegs or if you want the professional look then buy specific plant tags from a nursery.</p> <p><strong>5. Use a good quality potting mix:</strong> Buy this from a nursery and use your garden fork to mix this into the soil. This winning combination gives added nutrients to your growing vegetables and provides a healthy environment for a great crop to grow.</p> <p><strong>6. Space out your vegetables:</strong> Follow the instructions given on the side of seed packets regarding spacing out the vegetables. They will grow better and it really does make a difference to help maximise your seasonable vegetables crop. If they are planted too close together then pests and diseases are likely to become more prevalent in your vegetable garden. </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>7. Apply a layer of mulch:</strong> This should be about 50-75 mm thick of mulch to the whole area of the vegetable garden (just cover the rows you will be planting and harvesting) as this reduces weeds and provides organic matter to the plants when it breaks down. </span></p> <p><strong>8. Liquid fertilisers give good results:</strong> Consider using a liquid fertiliser as the plants take up the nutrients of the fertiliser quicker than they do with a granular fertiliser. It also saves you time. If you use a granular fertiliser then always water when the soil appears dry and apply the fertiliser before you water.You can use a granular slow release fertiliser such as 'Osmacote' for vegetables.You can also use a liquid fertiliser such as 'Seasol’. This has the added benefit of watering the plants and fertilising them simultaneously.</p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Republished with permission of </span><a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/property/how-to-start-a-vegetable-garden.aspx"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wyza.com.au.</span></a></em></p>

Health

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When to prune

<p>Ever wondered when the best time is to prune your garden or to grow fruit? This calendar should help you out.</p> <h4>Pruning calendar</h4> <p><strong>Late winter</strong></p> <p>Dormant-prune deciduous fruit trees such as peach, nectarine, apple, pear (always lightly), cherry and European and Japanese plums.</p> <p>Cut back autumn-fruiting raspberries to within a few centimetres of the ground.</p> <p>Begin pinching back cordons and espaliers and rubbing out unwanted vegetative buds to maintain the desired shape.</p> <p>Prune blueberry bushes from the end of harvest through to the following bud break by removing or cutting back old canes. Late winter pruning is ideal.</p> <p>Cut back canes of any newly planted raspberries and hybrid blackberries.</p> <p><strong>Spring</strong></p> <p>Prune apricots in very early spring and before blossom opens.</p> <p>Prune citrus; remove dead or diseased wood and crossed rubbing branches. Remove one limb every three to four years to improve light penetration (the flower bud loss has little effect on yield).</p> <p>Prune passionfruit vines in mid- to late spring.</p> <p>Continue to shape cordons and espaliers during spring by rubbing out vegetative<br />buds that would form unwanted branches and spoil the established shape.</p> <p>Thin the small fruits on early stone and pome fruit trees to improve harvest quality.</p> <p><strong>Summer</strong></p> <p>In the early part of summer, continue judicious fruit thinning on late-season deciduous fruit varieties.</p> <p>Prune gooseberry bushes and white currants after fruiting has finished.</p> <p>Carry out summer pruning on deciduous fruit trees after harvesting in late summer. Only do dwarfed varieties if necessary.</p> <p>Cut out raspberry canes that have fruited.</p> <p><strong>Autumn</strong></p> <p>Complete any summer pruning of deciduous pome and stone fruit trees in early autumn.</p> <p>Cut down the shoots of blackberry hybrids that have fruited.</p> <p>Complete pruning of white currant and gooseberry bushes, and prune red and blackcurrant bushes.</p> <p><strong>Other</strong></p> <p>Tropical trees are usually pruned immediately after fruiting. In the first year this will simply consist of cutting back the leader to about 1 m high. Thereafter, make one thinning cut annually by removing a single limb; this will keep the tree at a manageable size.</p> <p>Bananas are cut to the ground after fruiting. Each plant will be replaced by an emerging sucker.</p> <p>Avocados are pruned lightly immediately after harvest. In the home garden trim only one side or the top of the tree annually. Rotate the part that you trim each year to maximise fruit production.</p> <p><em>Written by Reader's Digest Editors. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/gardeing-tips/when-to-prune">Reader’s Digest.</a></em></p>

Lifestyle

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10 tips on how to help your indoor garden thrive

<p>Plants bring life and colour into the home and require little in the way of maintenance. Follow these simple tips and your plants should flourish.</p> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/gardening-tips/how-help-your-indoor-garden-thrive"><strong>1. Position plants carefully</strong></div> <p>Look for the best place in the house for each plant, and don’t be afraid to try different locations until you find the best spot. </p> <p><strong>2. Re-create a forest floor</strong></p> <p>If a room seems too dark to sustain a healthy plant, don’t be fooled. Most indoor plants originate in tropical and subtropical regions, in particular equatorial forests, and they thrive in dim environments and filtered light. The ideal spot is in front of a large window facing east or west, filtered if necessary through a net scrim curtain.</p> <p><strong>3. Sun-lovers face north</strong></p> <p>If you have a plant that thrives on lots of sun, place it on a windowsill facing north or north-east. Check soil moisture levels regularly and inspect the leaves to check they are not being burned. At the slightest sign of withering, move the plant towards the middle of the room.</p> <p><strong>4. Plants for the bathroom</strong></p> <p><span>Ferns and other moisture-loving plants do best in vaporous rooms like bathrooms where they can lap up regular doses of mist.</span></p> <p><strong>5. Water from the bottom</strong></p> <div id="page6" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>Water poured directly onto the soil may flood, or not reach the pot plant’s roots. Instead, water plants bottom up by standing them in a dish and filling the dish with water. Delicate plants such as fuchsias thrive on this method. For this method to work, all pots should have holes in the bottom through which the water is absorbed.</p> <p><strong>6. Keep away from drafts</strong></p> <div id="page7" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>If you don’t want your plant to die of heat or cold, avoid placing it in draughty areas or near ducted heat or air-conditioning outlets.</p> <p><strong>7. Do not over water</strong></p> <div id="page8" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>Water your plants only when the potting mix feels dry to the touch – over watering is often the cause of indoor plant death. Check by pushing your finger into the soil; if it comes out without any trace of soil on it, start watering. Remember that plants may need more frequent watering in summer.</p> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/gardening-tips/how-help-your-indoor-garden-thrive"><strong>8. Remember, plants like to be misted</strong></div> <div class="at-below-post addthis_tool" data-url="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/gardening-tips/how-help-your-indoor-garden-thrive"> <div id="page9" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p>Most indoor plants benefit from an occasional misting of water. Make sure the water is at room temperature and use an atomizer or spray bottle. Misting is particularly beneficial if you live in a centrally heated or air-conditioned house as the air can become very dry.</p> <p><strong>9. Apply some fertiliser</strong></p> <p>Feed your plants with small amounts of fertiliser. The fastest and simplest solution is complete liquid fertiliser in the recommended dose, usually every two to four weeks – check the label. </p> <p><strong>10. Use ice cubes</strong></p> <p>An efficient way to water your plants directly at a steady rate is to use ice cubes. Put a couple on top of the pot soil and leave them to melt.</p> <div id="page11" class="slide-show"> <div id="test" class="slide"> <div class="slide-description"> <p class="p1"><em>Written by Brenda Schmerl. This article first appeared in <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/gardening-tips/how-help-your-indoor-garden-thrive" target="_blank">Reader’s Digest</a>. </em></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Lifestyle

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Easy gardening projects you can do with your grandkids

<p><span>Our kids garden projects are easy, inexpensive, fun and perhaps most importantly, they will not create a ton of mess! </span></p> <p><span>For an easy experience, discuss your chosen project with the kids beforehand and ensure you run through gardening do's and dont's (DON'T turn the hose on without permission, DO wash your hands before re-entering the house). </span></p> <p>Scroll through the gallery to see a few easy garden projects to do with your grandchildren.</p> <p><span>Would you do any of these garden projects with your grandkids? Let us know in the comments below. </span></p> <p><em>Republished with permission of <a href="http://www.handyman.net.au/4-kids-garden-projects">Handyman.net.au.</a></em></p>

Entertainment

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How to get the grandkids involved in gardening

<p>Gardening can be a lot of fun for kids, giving them the chance to get outside and grub around in the dirt. </p> <p>And if you give kids an area outdoors to call their own, they’ll be rolling up their sleeves in no time. </p> <p>The vegetable garden is a great starting point and a wonderful way for them to develop an understanding of where fresh food comes from. </p> <p>You’ll be surprised how many more vegies they are likely to accept on the dinner plate when they’ve grown them with their own hands.</p> <p>Let them add a scarecrow and it will become their favourite spot. </p> <p>Watering and weeding take up only so much time, so to really keep kids interested between sowing and harvesting crops they need to have a stake in the garden. </p> <p>The best way to do this is to create a kid-friendly landscape and this is possible whether you have a large garden, small courtyard or balcony. </p> <p>Use raised beds to give children a dedicated growing area, mark out kids-only spots using puppets, or decorate lights to hang outdoors and you won’t be able to keep them away.   </p> <p><strong>Watch a scarecrow </strong></p> <p>As a reward for the hard work of sowing garden beds and to give the vegie patch a guardian, help the kids make and dress a scarecrow to protect their crops from birds. </p> <p><strong><u>SINK A STAKE</u></strong> up to 3m high about 600mm into the ground, securing a crosspiece 300mm from the top.</p> <p><strong><u>ADD CLOTHES</u></strong> and stuff with grass clippings, woodchips or rags, tying the waistband and pant legs in place. </p> <p><strong><u>MAKE A HEAD</u></strong> from nylon tights or a hessian sack, stuffing it with plastic bags and securing to the stake with twine. Add a face and hat to finish. </p> <p><strong>TIP: </strong>Use bright colours to deter birds. </p> <p><strong>Garden craft </strong></p> <p>Take the time to look and you’ll find your garden is a great source of craft supplies, including seed pods, colourful foliage and flowers, twisted branches and straight twigs. </p> <p>A collection of goodies from the garden works well to create markers for paths and garden beds. </p> <p>Just add a few colourful pipe cleaners and Paddle-Pop sticks, then grab a hot glue gun and you’re all set to create anything your imagination can conjure up.</p> <p>This alien stick puppet was assembled using a glue gun, under adult supervision, to join porous materials and the shiny seedpods.</p> <p><strong>TIP:</strong> When removing a part of a plant, trim it with secateurs rather than tearing it off by hand.</p> <p><strong>Designing a flower press</strong></p> <p>Pressed and dried flowers make beautiful keepsakes or additions to art and craft projects. </p> <p>A flower press is a simple device that features a rigid base and top plate with bolts through each corner. </p> <p>To make your own press, cut two 300 x 300mm squares from 9mm marine or exterior ply. </p> <p>Drill holes about 20mm in from the corners, insert the bolts and secure threaded drawer knobs over the top.</p> <p><strong>TIP:</strong> You can also use wing nuts. </p> <p>To adjust the size of the press simply cut the plywood larger or smaller. For scrapbooks or albums you may want it A4 size. </p> <p>Position the flowers and leaves between layers of paper on the base plate then add the top plate.</p> <p>Wind the knobs to tighten the bolts and draw the top and base plates together, compressing the contents of the press. </p> <p>Change the paper every few days until the flowers or leaves have dried.</p> <p><strong>Watch the weather </strong></p> <p>Add a rain gauge to the garden and open up a new world for kids to explore. It is a simple and fun learning tool that helps children appreciate the importance of climate in their garden. The best spot is somewhere that’s frequently visited like the vegie garden.</p> <p><strong><u>POSITION THE RAIN GAUGE</u></strong> high enough so water won’t splash into it and in an area clear from overhanging buildings or trees. A large, securely mounted, seasoned hardwood garden stake is an ideal mounting point.</p> <p><strong><u>KEEP RECORDS</u></strong> to help kids learn how to track data and look at summarised results. Create a spreadsheet and graph that tallies the monthly and annual rainfall.  </p> <p><strong>Outdoor lights </strong></p> <p>Turn your garden into a fairy wonderland after dark by adding handmade lanterns. </p> <p>All you need is glass paint, LED tea-light candles and glass containers or bottles in just about any shape you can find.</p> <p>To hang lanterns from trees in the garden, decorate jars with wire handles. If you don’t have any, choose jars with a lip and make a hanger using galvanised tie wire from the hardware store.</p> <p>Paint markers make it easy to create pictures and patterns on glass candle holders of all shapes and sizes. </p> <p>They cost from $5 each, from Officeworks, resist fading and come in a range of colours including metallics. </p> <p>Get the kids to practise first on a piece of paper the same size as the surface to be painted.</p> <p><strong>TIP:</strong> If using real candles, don’t paint on the side exposed to the flame.</p> <p><em>Republished with permission of </em><a href="http://www.handyman.net.au/gardening-kids"><em>Handyman Australia</em></a><em>.</em></p>

Lifestyle

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