What to do - Starke Ayres GC

As we approach our hottest months of the year be aware that wild life in the garden need some assistance around availability of food and water. Be mindful of not over-providing as they still need to forage their own food but a little help along the way won’t go amiss. Place feeding tables out of reach of predators like cats, and stock them with fresh natural items like seeds, fresh fruit, suet and vegetables. Hang nectar feeding bottles from trees, sweetened with sugar, glucose or fructose. Do not use honey, or any artificial sweeteners. Artificial colourants are also unnecessary. The ideal bird bath has a gentle slope, is not too deep, with a natural surface that is not slippery. Position in a shady, sheltered spot that offers some protection. Ensure the water is always clean. Birds are attracted to the sight and sound of running water so having a small fountain will help. More than one bird bath is not a bad idea!

The downside of sitting outdoors, at dusk, enjoying the ambiance of the garden, is the annoying buzz of mosquitoes. They are especially annoying if you have a water tank or fish pond. Burning citronella, lavender or eucalyptus candles will help keep the mossies at bay, as will planting Basil, Lavender, Marigolds,Rosemary, Mints and a host of other plants that contain strong smelling essential oils. Avoid standing water. This is an ideal breeding ground. Empty out plant saucers, clear debris that can collect water and if you have a pond or a bird bath, install a fountain to circulate the water. Ensure the water stays clean by adding Makhro Clear Pond to keep the water clean and clear. The natural microbes will reduce harmful levels of Ammonia, Nitrate and Nitrite.

MUST HAVES OF THE MONTH

LAWNS

Lawns need a bit more care at this time of year. Mow them regularly but ensure enough grass blade is left to shade the roots, preventing burning and also from drying out too quickly. Water early in the morning to enable the grass blades to dry before nightfall, avoiding fungal infections. Water deeply, a few times a week, rather than shallow sprinkling every day. This will encourage the roots to grow deeper and be less vulnerable to surface disturbances and drought. Organic fertilisers like Talborne Vita Green 5.1.5, will feed the soil as well as the grass plant, ensuring ongoing plant health. For a quick fix Kynoch TurboGrass 10.1.5 is the answer but be sure to water it in well. Margaret Roberts Biological Caterpillar Insecticide will keep lawn caterpillars under control. FloStim sprayed on existing lawns and watered in, will aid absorption of water and reduce heat stress.

CHILLIES

The second half of summer is chilli time. These decorative plants enjoy the heat we experience in January and February and produce fruits in a range of shapes, colours and heat on a scale of zero to “lift off the top of your head”! Current varieties available are Carolina Reaper (very hot), Mad Hatter (mild, sweet and citrusy), Acapulco Purple (medium, fruity and peppery) and Tabasco (medium, with a juicy fruit). The selection is always changing so visit us regularly to update your collection.