23 September 2011
In my last article I mentioned the expected arrival of the new KLAHANIE Varieties of Hibiscus. Unfortunately due to the longer than expected cool weather, these plants are too small for sale at this time. It was suggested by the producer to grow them in a hothouse environment, but I prefer to bring them on naturally so they can be hardened off. Sorry about the delay.
The “Black Velvet” and “Orange Crush” Petunias have arrived and are looking great. The clumping “Bumble Bee” petunia is performing well and producing many flowers. My test plants have doubled in size and are flourishing with the assistance of regular “Seasol” applications.
Arriving later this week is a selection of the scented leafed Agonis flexuosa forms (sometimes referred to as the “Peppermint Willow”.) The taller new variety “After Dark” can achieve 5-6 metre under best growing conditions whilst maintaining its willowy appearance. This form has burgundy/purple foliage and bears many tiny white flowers during Spring. This form would make a distinctive and attractive specimen in a lawn area or as a group planting in a large garden zone.
Agonis “Aftershock” is very similar to “After Dark” but is only expected to reach 2 metres with a 1 metre spread. This variety could well be used as a screen or backdrop for your garden. Once established all the Agonis are resistant to moderate frosts. If needed they respond well to a light prune after flowering.
From time to time, when advising clients in regards to the best soil conditions for their garden, some have purchased soils from landscape yards and have been disappointed with the product.
Be aware that most suppliers of soil blends produce a very basic mix and in most cases will need to be drastically improved prior to planting.
This can be achieved by adding plenty of organic matter, humus, compost and the like. It would benefit the gardener to purchase a simple pH tester, so the level of acidity/alkalinity can be checked. In some cases you may need to add lime to increase the sweetness of the soil or sulphur to low the pH to acidic levels depending on what the plants requirements are.
Some soil blends will be hydrophobic, this is they will repel water and are hard to moisten to any reasonable depth. The more organic matter etc you integrate in the mix the better. You will know the hydrophobic condition of the soil by watering the heap and observing how the water reacts to the mix. If it penetrates, well and good. If you see the water running off, carrying dust particles with it, well that soil needs some help. Use your finger to check how far the water has penetrated based on the amount of water you apply.
It would be to your advantage to see these mixes at the yards prior to purchase. Check for nut grass in the suppliers’ compounds and at least ask what the pH of the soil blend is. Good luck.
Plantman