Garden and Plant Troubleshooting

11 Jul

Garden and Plant Troubleshooting

The Importance of Critique and Feedback in the Plant and Garden Community

• July 15, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Critique and feedback play a crucial role in the plant and garden community. Whether you are a novice gardener or an experienced horticulturist, constructive feedback helps improve skills, fosters learning, and builds a supportive community. This is particularly important when dealing with tropical ...

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08 Jul

Garden and Plant Troubleshooting

Plants Biosecurity Index

• July 8, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

The Plants Biosecurity Index (PBI) is a searchable database of over 30,000 plant species. It provides information on whether they can be imported into New Zealand as seeds or nursery stock. For a more in depth search please visit the MPI website.

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26 Jun

Garden & Plant Questions

How much Tui Enrich Controlled Release fertiliser do I feed my citrus in a wine barrel?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. I have purchased some Tui Enrich for my citrus trees which are in 1/2 wine barrels which hold a couple of bags of container mix. Now after a year they need a feed. They are large advanced grade trees, how much Enrich do I put in each barrel. Answer. Feeding your citrus trees is essentia...

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13 Feb

The Weed Files

Holly Havoc: The Invasive Charm of Ilex aquifolium & Ilex cornuta in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Greetings, fellow garden enthusiasts and nature warriors! 🌿 Today, we’re uncovering the prickly truth about Holly – specifically, Ilex aquifolium (English Holly) and Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly). These festive-looking plants may conjure up images of holiday cheer with their spiky leaves and bright r...

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12 Feb

Garden & Plant Questions

When should I prune tamarillo?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Question. Hi, when should I prune tamarillo in Northland? Answer. Pruning your tamarillo (also known as tree tomato) at the right time is essential for promoting healthy growth, improving fruit quality, and maintaining a manageable tree size. In Northland, New Zealand, the climate is generally mi...

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23 Dec

Garden & Plant Questions

Why are my hydrangea leaves turning black?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. My hydrangeas have flowered well but has not been very leafy this year. The leaves are lush green for a short time, then turn grey, then black and drop off. When I cleaned up the black leaves and dead-headed, the cycle started again. Ive never seen the leaves go grey before. It seems a bad...

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20 Dec

The Weed Files

Beware the Beauty: The Invasive Charm of Bear’s Breeches in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hey there, nature protectors and plant aficionados! 🌿 Have you ever encountered the striking Bear's Breeches, or Acanthus mollis, in your garden or local wild spaces? This plant, with its bold foliage and towering flower spikes, might look like a garden superstar. But behind its stunning appearance ...

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07 Dec

Garden & Plant Questions

Why are my herbs hardly growing?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. Hi there, my coriander and basil are hardly growing - my favourite herbs! Any suggestions? I live in South Canterbury. Answer. Hi there! It's frustrating when your favorite herbs like coriander (cilantro) and basil struggle to grow. These herbs are not only delicious but also add a fres...

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04 Dec

The Weed Files

The Tangled Tale of Old Man’s Beard: An Invasive Invader in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hello, fellow nature lovers and weed warriors! 🌿 Today, we’re unraveling the story of one of New Zealand’s most notorious invasive plants: Old Man’s Beard, or Clematis vitalba. This fast-growing vine might look like a fairy tale with its fluffy, beard-like seeds, but don’t be fooled! It’s more like ...

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20 Sep

Garden & Plant Questions

What would cause my lemons to go mouldy on the tree?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Question. Hi, I have a very robust and heavy bearer lemon tree. This year the fruit is going mouldy on the tree. What would be the cause? Answer. Having a robust and heavy-bearing lemon tree is wonderful, but it's concerning when the fruit starts going mouldy on the tree. Understanding the potent...

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07 May

The Weed Files

The Puzzling Problem of Contorta Pine: An Invader of New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hello, nature lovers and environmental champions! 🌲 Today, we’re focusing on a tree that’s causing quite a stir in New Zealand’s landscapes: the Contorta Pine. Known botanically as Pinus contorta and commonly referred to as Lodgepole Pine or P. murrayana, this tree is part of the Pinaceae family. Wh...

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25 Apr

The Weed Files

The Fluffy Foe: Battling Woolly Mullein – Verbascum thapsus in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hello, fellow gardeners and nature defenders! 🌿 Today, we’re turning the spotlight on a plant that might look soft and innocent but is causing big problems across New Zealand: Woolly Mullein, or Verbascum thapsus. This tall, fuzzy invader with its bright yellow flowers is more than just an unusual s...

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28 Mar

Garden & Plant Questions

What do I fertilise my young banana tree with and how often?

• June 25, 2024
• By Troppo

Question. Hello, what do I fertilise my young banana tree with and how often? Answer. Hey there, banana enthusiasts! 🌿 If you’re nurturing a young banana tree and wondering how to keep it happy and thriving, you’ve come to the right place. Let's dig into the best fertilizers for your banana tree ...

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18 Mar

Garden & Plant Questions

Help, I have whitefly in my glasshouse.

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Question. Hi, I live in Taranaki, and have just picked and uprooted my broccoli plants which were growing in a hothouse, they had loads of white bugs under the leaves. Will these affect other things in the hothouse even though the infected plants are now removed. Please help as I am new to vegetaria...

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12 Mar

Garden & Plant Questions

The Perfect Potting Mix for Hibiscus: A Comprehensive Guide

• June 21, 2024
• By Troppo

Creating the perfect potting mix for your hibiscus is essential for ensuring healthy growth and abundant blooms. By understanding the specific needs of hibiscus plants and using the right mix of ingredients, you can provide an ideal growing environment. Remember to water, fertilize, and prune your hibiscus regularly to keep it thriving. With these tips, your hibiscus will be a stunning addition to your garden or home.

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09 Jan

Garden & Plant Questions

How do I treat toadstools/fungi in my lawn?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Question. Hi, fungus/toadstool growing in our lawn, how do we get rid of this without killing the lawn? Answer. Finding fungus or toadstools growing in your lawn can be concerning, but it's a common issue that can be managed effectively. Here are some steps to get rid of these unwanted fungi whil...

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08 Dec

Garden & Plant Questions

How can I rejuvenate my patchy lawn?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. My lawn is not growing very well. It is patchy. What can i do to rejuvenate the lawn and when? Answer. Having a lush, green lawn is a dream for many homeowners, but sometimes, despite our best efforts, the grass just doesn't grow as well as we'd like. If your lawn is patchy and struggli...

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23 Oct

Garden & Plant Questions

Can I use Tui Strawberry Food on my strawberries in pots?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. I have planted my early strawberries in large plastic containers only to find that Tui Strawberry food is not suitable for plants in pots and containers. Why is this as they have ample root space? Answer.  Planting strawberries in large plastic containers is a great way to enjoy fresh f...

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06 Aug

Garden & Plant Questions

Is it helpful to pinch out the first flower heads to promote a fuller flowering plant?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Question. Hi, is it helpful to pinch out the first flower heads to promote a fuller flowering marigold plant? Answer. Marigolds are beloved by gardeners for their vibrant colors and ease of growth. To achieve a fuller and more abundant display of marigold blooms, one effective technique is pinchi...

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28 Jul

Garden & Plant Questions

What Are the Best Companion Plants for Feijoas in New Zealand?

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo

Feijoas, also known as pineapple guavas, are beloved in New Zealand gardens for their delicious fruit and attractive appearance. To maximize the health and productivity of your feijoa plants, consider companion planting. This guide explores the best companion plants for feijoas in New Zealand, helpi...

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12 Jul

Garden & Plant Questions

Feijoa Bambina: Can This Little Fruit Handle the Heat?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Feijoa Bambina is a resilient, drought-tolerant plant that can thrive even in challenging conditions. Its deep root system, combined with appropriate soil and water management, makes it an excellent choice for gardens aiming to conserve water while still enjoying the beauty and bounty of a productive fruiting plant. Whether you’re in a Mediterranean climate or facing periodic droughts, Feijoa Bambina can be a valuable addition to your garden, offering both aesthetic appeal and delicious rewards.

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31 May

Garden & Plant Questions

What can I do about mosquitoes in my glasshouse?

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo

Mosquitoes and fungus gnats can be a persistent nuisance in glasshouses, disrupting your gardening efforts and creating an unpleasant environment. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to manage and eliminate these pests. This guide will provide practical tips to control mosquitoes and...

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30 May

Garden & Plant Questions

How can I control white fly in my flower garden?

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo

Whiteflies can be a persistent and damaging pest in flower gardens, but with the right strategies, you can keep them under control. This guide will provide you with practical tips to manage and eliminate whiteflies from your flower garden, ensuring healthy and beautiful plants. Identifying Whitefly...

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20 Apr

Garden & Plant Questions

Do I need to cut the leaves on my banana tree before planting?

• June 25, 2024
• By Troppo

Question. Do I need to cut the leaves on my banana tree before planting to grow healthy roots? Answer. Hey there, banana enthusiasts! 🌿 If you’re gearing up to plant a banana tree, you might be wondering whether you need to cut the leaves before getting it in the ground. The short answer? It depe...

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22 Feb

The Weed Files

The Persistent Pest: Tackling Twin Cress – Lepidium didymum in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Hello, green thumbs and eco-warriors! 🌿 Today, we’re shedding light on a small but mighty invader that’s been creeping its way across New Zealand’s gardens and farmlands: Twin Cress, or Lepidium didymum. This tiny troublemaker may be easy to overlook, but its impact on our ecosystems is significant....

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08 Jan

Garden & Plant Questions

Which plants are good companions for strawberries?

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo

Strawberries are a favorite in many New Zealand gardens, prized for their delicious fruit and attractive appearance. Companion planting can enhance the growth and yield of strawberries, while also helping to deter pests and improve soil health. This guide explores the best companion plants for straw...

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04 Dec

Garden & Plant Questions

What herbs can I grow to deter flies?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. What herbs can I grow to keep flies away? Answer. Flies can be a nuisance, especially during the warmer months. Growing certain herbs can help deter these pesky insects while adding beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here’s a list of herbs that are known for their fly-repelling proper...

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22 Nov

Garden & Plant Questions

What can I plant under my fruit trees?

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo

Planting under fruit trees can enhance the health and productivity of your orchard while creating a more diverse and resilient garden ecosystem. This guide explores the best plants to grow under fruit trees in New Zealand, helping you maximize the benefits of companion planting. The Benefits of Und...

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10 Nov

Garden & Plant Questions

What can I grow near my tomatoes?

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo

Tomatoes are a staple in many New Zealand gardens, and companion planting can enhance their growth, yield, and health. This guide explores the best plants to grow near your tomatoes, helping you create a thriving and productive garden. The Benefits of Companion Planting Companion planting involves...

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29 Sep

Garden & Plant Questions

How do I move worms in a worm farm?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. Hi, I have had a worm farm for about 11 months. Is it safe to transfer the compost and worms to my garden? I understood these tiger worms are not the same as wild worms? There is no way of separating the worms from the composted material. Is it safe to introduce them into my garden? Ans...

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11 Aug

The Weed Files

Dock the Invader: The Trouble with Rumex in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Hey there, nature enthusiasts and garden guardians! 🌿 Have you ever come across those pesky plants with broad, paddle-like leaves in your backyard or paddock? Meet Dock – specifically, Rumex obtusifolius (Broad-leaved Dock), Rumex pulcher (Fiddle Dock), and Rumex conglomeratus (Clustered Dock). Thes...

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02 Aug

Garden & Plant Questions

How and when do I refresh my pot plants?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. Hi, we have been using garden pots for some years now and the soil in some of the pots with shrubs in them is very compacted. Do I try to refresh the pots and put in new potting mix, or is there another way? Answer.  Over time, soil in garden pots can become compacted, leading to poor d...

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13 Jun

Garden & Plant Questions

Are marigolds good companions to runner beans?

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo

Marigolds are popular in New Zealand gardens for their vibrant blooms and pest-repelling qualities. But do they make good companions to runner beans? In this guide, we explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of planting marigolds alongside runner beans specifically in New Zealand. This article ...

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23 May

Garden & Plant Questions

What flower seeds germinate quickly?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. Hi there, can you tell me which seed varieties germinate in about 7 days. I am making miniature scenes (instant fairy gardens) for our school calf club display and I was wondering if there was anything that I could bulk buy that was suitable. I am also looking for best non-toxic wild flowe...

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04 Feb

Garden & Plant Questions

Which Potato varieties are indeterminate and determinate?

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Question. Hi, which potatoes are indeterminate, these are best container ones as they make more potatoes as soil is mounded and added. Also the determinate ones don't need mounding up, this would save on buying vegetable mix to know this. I grow on an old riverbed and for me indeterminate potatoes g...

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26 Nov

The Weed Files

Wild Ginger: The Beautiful but Invasive Invader of New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Hello, nature guardians and green enthusiasts! 🌿 Today, we’re taking a closer look at a pair of plants that are as captivating as they are problematic: Wild Ginger, specifically Hedychium gardnerianum (Kahili Ginger) and Hedychium flavescens (Yellow Ginger). These exotic beauties, while stunning, po...

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