The soil in a typical backyard vegie patch works pretty hard. Season after season, we depend on it to grow a continuous supply of produce. As soon as one crop finishes, in goes another. So should we give our soil a rest from time to time?

If you love rubber plants, then you might want to try this simple propagation method to turn one plant into two! Marcotting, also known as ‘aerial layering’, is a bit like striking a cutting, only it’s still attached to the mother plant. Here’s how it’s done.

With autumn well and truly under way, it’s a great time to be out in the garden, preparing for cold days ahead. Here are 10 jobs for the garden, patch and patio to add to your May to-do list.

You sow, you water, you wait, but all that comes up is weeds! If this sounds like your experience growing carrots from seed, then you’re not alone. It can be disappointing when seeds don’t sprout but once you learn a few tricks, you’ll enjoy excellent germination time and time again. Here are a few secrets … Continue reading 5 tips for sowing carrots →

Growing plants under trees can be challenging. Sprawling roots deprive neighbouring plants of water and nutrients, making the soil dry, even barren. And a canopy can cast deep shade, making it hard for plants underneath to photosynthesise and grow. So, what can you do? Turn to plants that have adapted naturally to growing in these difficult conditions.

A change of season brings about a change of focus in the garden. There’s a heap to do in the patch and elsewhere, so let’s get stuck in. Plant spring bulbs into pots and garden beds for a great display in late winter and spring. Prune maple and birch trees to shape and manage their … Continue reading 10 jobs to do in the garden in April  →

The way your garden changes from summer to autumn can have a big impact on backyard visitors, such as birds and lizards. With fewer flowers to eat, less food around, and water often scarce after months of heat, it’s a time of year when wildlife can benefit from a helping hand. Here are some steps you can take in your garden now to help critters cope with the season’s challenges.