When planting summer annuals don’t plant the seedlings too close together, leave about 15 to 20cms between each plant. Remove any flower buds until the plants reach full size then allow them to flower.
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A liquid fertiliser every two weeks or so is beneficial for healthy growth and flowers.
A mix of four teaspoons of lemon juice to two cups of water is a good spray to control aphids.
FIG-GURE IT OUT
Young fig trees do best when their roots are restricted, as this prevents the growth of rank, unproductive wood so they would be ideal specimens planted in a large 45cm pot.
Use quality potting mix.
COLOURFUL CARPET
Plant portulacas on a sunny bank or rockery where they will quickly mass to form a carpet of brilliant colours. Livingstone daisies are also great for rockeries and banks.
Basil!
Basil is a warm season herb that likes to grow in a sunny or partly-shaded position. Sow seeds direct where they are to grow.
Basil loves nitrogen so apply regular applications of a nitrogen-rich fertiliser. For maximum flavour pick the aromatic leaves in the morning after the dew dries and before the day warms up.
ROSE REPAIR
Be prepared to commence spraying roses for black spot as soon as the leaves unfurl and take on their green colouring.
A regular spray programme, every seven to 14 days, depending on the weather and how susceptible the rose variety is to infection, will help prevent the disease from becoming a problem.
When spraying, make sure to wet the under surfaces of leaves as this is where the black spot fungus attacks the plant. Remove and destroy any affected leaves.
LOVING THE BLOOMS
The hardy annual Nigella damescena, or love-in-the-mist, with its profusion of charming blue-petalled flowers, feathery green foliage and creamy, crimson-streaked seed capsules is much valued for inclusion in floral arrangements. Randomly planted in the garden the cool blue flowers take on a tranquil effect.
MINT CONDITION
Catmint is a good edging plant for borders where its soft mauve-blue flowers and attractive grey foliage can be used with great effect to soften harsh edges. Other edging plants include sweet alyssum, lobelia, candytuft and dwarf forms of nasturtiums.
BEET IT
Sow beetroot seeds 15cm deep, five to 10cms apart in rows 25 to 30cms apart. Soak seeds for about six hours prior to planting. Keep the soil moist, not wet, during germination.
As the seedlings grow, cover the roots to prevent the tops becoming discoloured and corky. The leaves can be stir fried.
