Word games help to keep the mind active to enhance and preserve brain function as we grow older. It is also easier to remember facts we learn through interactive processes. Let’s work, eat and learn how to live healthier and more fulfilling lifestyles. #LoveHomeGrown. #GardeningAndHealth
Citrus Crossword Puzzle Read More »
Citrus fruits, Interactive Content
Fruit flies are the primary cause of global fruit spoilage. They lay eggs in developing fruits, which appear as rotten with maggots in ripe fruits. The insects target fruits like guava, mango, apple, and more but spare some like raspberries and figs. Effective control measures include traps and extermination of infected fruits. Synchronized community efforts and consistent year-round surveillance are crucial for successful prevention.
Harmful Insects: Fruit fly alert Read More »
Pest Control
Fruit thinning is a critical process in orchard management that’s often overlooked by backyard gardeners. It results in larger, higher-quality fruit by reducing the competition for nutrients and preventing damage caused by overcrowding. Naturally spaced commercial fruit varieties need less thinning, making them suitable for small gardens maintained by part-time gardeners. Thinned fruits can be composted or preserved if large enough.
Spring and Dry Summer Gardening Priorities Part 2: Fruit Thinning Read More »
Fruit thinning
Post-winter gardening activities make an orchard resilient and productive till the rainy season’s end. Activities include controlling pests, increasing watering, enriching soil, mulishing, transplanting, and pruning, among others. Increased care should be taken during higher temperatures as plants require more hydration and nutrients. Soils should be amended periodically and mulching should be frequent to retain soil moisture and improve plant survival during droughts.
Spring and Dry Summer Gardening Priorities Part 1 Read More »
Post-winter Gardening Priorities
Citrus trees flourish in subtropical climates and need minimal care, but must be adequately watered and composted. Disease control and pest prevention are essential. Mild winter temperatures in central southern Africa permit many fruits to continue to ripen. Home-growing allows for the creation of nutrient-rich drinks, mixing fruits like ginger, pomelo, and pineapple, beneficial during flu season.
A detailed seasonal update highlighting fruit ripening, root crop sprouting, heat‑season plant care, propagation, and ongoing harvests.
Summer Garden Update — Fruit, Roots, and Hot‑Season Care Read More »
Plant Care, Spring and Summer Gardening in the Subtropics
This month’s garden activities include pruning, propagation, pest control, improved watering, and harvesting, with standout globe artichokes featured.
Seasonal Garden Update Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, Gallery, Plant Care, Spring and Summer Gardening in the Subtropics
A small potted tree produced a 3.134 kg grapefruit, inspiring hybrid seedling growth and joyful gardening experiments.
Giant 3.134 Kg Grapefruit Harvested from Our Small Potted Tree Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, Citrus fruits
Weather Shifts and Unexpected Strength The year 2026 brought sharp weather changes after several dry seasons. Yet many vulnerable plants
Building Resilient Gardens Through Weather Changes Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, What is thriving this season?
Despite a cold snap, berries thrived, producing flavorful fruits and promising a strong harvest as summer approaches.
Thriving Kiowa Blackberries and Strawberries After Winter’s Last Chill Read More »
Berries
Red and yellow tree tomato plants thrive in subtropical conditions, proving resilient, productive, and ideal for urban gardens.
Tree Tomatoes Thriving Through Winter Read More »
Post-winter Gardening Priorities, What is thriving this season?
The garden showcases resilient subtropical plants thriving despite mild winter conditions, highlighting careful management and multicropping strategies for productivity.
Winter Surprises in Our Subtropical Urban Eden Read More »
Post-winter Gardening Priorities, What is thriving this season?, Winter gardening in the subtropics
Blue borage reappears in winter, offering edible leaves and flowers, enhancing the garden’s beauty through self-seeding and reliable growth.
Blue Borage: A Winter Surprise in the Subtropical Garden Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, Gallery, Herbs & Spices, Ornamentables, Very Low Maintenance Plants, What is thriving this season?, Winter gardening in the subtropics
Artichokes enhance the subtropical winter garden with vibrant colors, structure, and resilience while promising future edible harvests.
Artichoke: The Architectural Edible for Patient Gardeners Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, Container Gardening, Ornamentables, Vegetables, Very Low Maintenance Plants, What is thriving this season?, Winter gardening in the subtropics
Warm-climate gardens can yield fresh winter flavors like ginger and lemongrass, enhancing meals and soothing drinks with simple care.
Grow Lemongrass, Citrus, Chilli and Ginger This Winter Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, Citrus fruits, Harvesting ripe fruits, Herbs & Spices, Root Plants, Winter gardening in the subtropics
Surinam and Barbados cherry trees add winter color, support bees with blossoms, and are ideal for compact home gardens.
Surinam and Barbados Cherry Winter Blossoms for Subtropical Gardens Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, Container Gardening, Gallery, Ornamentables, Winter gardening in the subtropics
Pineapple verbena is a fragrant potted shrub with scented leaves, orange berries, and easy propagation for herbal tea.
Pineapple Verbena: Fragrant Potted Shrub with Orange Berries Read More »
Benefits of Gardening, Container Gardening, Gallery, What is thriving this season?, Winter gardening in the subtropics