Sow snow and sugarsnap peas direct into pots or a garden bed next to a support for the plants to climb onto.
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Chilli Power
When it comes to the ‘hotness’ of chillies, generally the smaller the chilli the hotter it is with the red ones extremely so.
Hotness is scored from one to ten with ten being the highest.
Habenero is the hottest with banana and jalapeno being mildly intense.
If you like chillies and want to grow them it’s still a little early to plant seedlings out in the garden, unless you provide some protection, but you could sow seeds that will be ready for planting out later next month.
Sow seeds into pots or trays and put in a hothouse to germinate.
When the seedlings are big enough transplant into the garden or larger pots of good quality potting mix.
Water gently until established taking care not to overwater.
Extreme care must be taken when handling fresh chillies or seeds as they can cause a burning sensation in the eyes and on the skin.
Always wear gloves.
TO A TEA
Leptospermums, or tea trees, make lovely plants for the garden and when established are drought tolerant.
Most leptospermums are endemic to Australia and grow in a wide range of environments.
They range in height from prostrate to small trees and feature papery bark and produce pretty pink, white or red flowers.
They are also a great source of food for bees who turn their nectar into valuable honey.
Leptospermum scoparium is an upright, evergreen shrub bearing aromatic flowers in late spring through summer and is a variety that is very popular.
Some varieties can be grown in pots and some make suitable bonsai subjects.
When pruning leptospermums, after flowering, don’t cut into bare wood as this will not regrow.
DROUGHT BUSTER
Another plant that is drought tolerant and deserves a place in the garden is the majestic Echium candicans seen in large clumps with masses of tall, dark blue/mauve flowering spikes.
Plant with Euphobia wulfenii, E. Craigieburn or E. Tiny Tim as their lime green flowers contrast beautifully with the Echium’s vibrant colouring.
On Trend
Convolvulus has become a trendy plant again and when the mauve/blue flowered variety is planted in combination with pink verbenas and silver-leafed Helichrysums the colourful, delicate effect is most impressive.
The funnel-shaped flowers bloom freely throughout summer when given a sunny position with moist soil.
The white-flowered form is used extensively in landscaping.