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FLOWER GARDEN
Although little can be done this month, it is the best time to sow in boxes or
frames, (make sure it is a position not in the strong summer heat), for
transplanting later, Antirrihnums, Lupins, Pansies, Dianthus, Poppies,
Primulas, Wallfowers, Anemones, Cinerarias, Stocks etc.
It is worth trying late sowings of Asters at this time of the year. They come
into bloom usually just before Chrysanthemums, and provide some really welcome
late Autumn flowers. Do not sow them however unless you anticipate there is
going to be four months of frost free conditions. Don't sow Calendulas until
the end of the month. Dahlias and Chrysanthemums will need attention in the way
of pinching out the laterals and regular waterings. Watch Chrysanthemums for
rust, if you see it developing spray it with lime sulphur. Cyclamen bulbs which
have been lying dormant can be re potted and watered or planted out in beds
where they will start growth again. Remember too when cutting roses to shorten
them back. Mulching is important this time of the year. Use lawn clippings if
you have nothing else. This is also a good time to mulch your spring flowering
bulbs beds, they should be kept cool during the summer months. Continue the
layering of Carnations should you be wanting to multiply these.
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VEGETABLE GARDEN
One of the most important items for sowing this month is Cabbage and
Cauliflower. They should be ready in 6-8 weeks to transplant. When gauging the
time of maturity for Cabbage and Cauliflower take it from the time of planting
out and not from when the seed was sown. Do not allow insects to check the
plants. Curly Kale and Broccoli can also be sown, they make a good standby
vegetable for winter use. Lettuce can be sown at this time of the year, but
choose the right variety and for preference make the sowings in the open ground
to avoid transplanting. The main thing is to keep the soil moist while the seed
is germinating. You can still make another sowing of French Dwarf Beans now.
Sowings of Beetroot, Carrot, Silverbeet, Parsnip, Leek, Spinach and Swede can
be made. At this time of year the parsley bed should be kept well watered to
stop it bolting. Cucumbers, Melons and Pumpkins will be growing well now and
straw can be laid underneath the fruit to keep them off the ground and prevent
staining and disfigurments.
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FRUIT GARDEN
Continue the spraying of Fruit Trees to combat the later infestation of Codlin
Moth. Give late fruiting peaches another spray to combat brown rot. Should
leech or pear slug still be on Plums and Pears give them another spray. Citrus
trees should be sprayed to combat fungous diseases like verracosis. Summer
pruning may be done. Cut back laterals from vines, but not too much at one
time. As soon as your Berry crop fruit is picked the old canes should be
removed but don't remove those that fruit on two year old wood. Tree Tomatoes
should be kept well watered and mulched or they will drop their fruit later.
Spray to combat mildew.
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