Basil loves rich, well-draining soil in a position that gets some light shade as the hot sun may scorch the leaves.
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Plenty of water and a regular application of a liquid fertiliser will produce healthy, lush, oil-rich fragrant leaves.
Another plant with aromatic leaves that enjoys similar conditions is mizuna.
The attractive peppery leaves are great in salads, omelettes and compliment grilled steak.
Loving the lime
The finger or caviar lime, Citrus australsica, is an Australian native with unusual finger-shaped fruits containing individual vesicles that pop out when squeezed.
The kaffir lime has tough, lumpy-skinned, green fruit with uniquely-flavoured leaves used in Thai cuisine.
Limes prefer full sun to dappled shade.
In cold areas plant near a sheltered, warm wall for frost protection or grow in large pots that can be put undercover during the colder months.
Water regularly, feed in spring and keep mulched.
Not-so hot stuff
Capsicums like the same growing conditions as their close relative the tomato, that is, full sun in well-drained, humus rich soil.
Capsicums are not as hot as chillies so can be enjoyed by all the family.
Water feature
At this time of year a good soaking of water every couple of days rather than a light one every day in the ornamental garden not only saves this precious commodity, but also encourages the growth of healthier plant root systems.
Quality plants, mulch and removal of all weeds also make a big difference.
Water early in the morning if possible.
Rose work
Pick roses for the vase at the bud stage and in the morning before the heat of the day.
Prune modern roses lightly by removing spent blooms and any diseased and sappy, weak growth.
This tidy-up will strengthen the plants in preparation for that next flush of autumn flowering.
Clematis care
Plant clematis in humus-rich, well-draining soil so the root system does not dry out and become dehydrated.
The ideal growing condition is one where the foliage is in the sun while the roots are moist and cool.
Keep the plant well watered in the hot, dry months.
Verbenas are back
Verbenas are making a comeback in our gardens with dozen of varieties.
These hardy plants do best in an open, sunny position in a well-drained soil with a light texture, moderately rich in compost.
When planting seedlings give them plenty of space to allow air circulation and light as verbenas are prone to powdery mildew.