Pruning plum trees in Zambia should occur just after rains, before winter for early fruiting varieties, and after winter for later-blooming kinds. Pruning technique involves trimming long branches, removing inward growing limbs and low branches, and applying Vaseline to cuts. Cut branches can be used as mulch or for plant propagation.
Pruning Plum Trees Read More »
Plant Care, Tree Pruning
The content discusses growing diverse varieties of figs and other fruits in the subtropics, primarily in large pots, to ensure productivity throughout the year despite long dry seasons and poor soil. Also highlighted is the benefit of such a garden in providing a regular harvest of vitamin-rich fruits, berries, and herbs, beneficial in maintaining overall health, particularly during flu season.
Edible plants that thrive in the Subtropics Read More »
Plant Selection
The unpredictable rainy season in the southern subtropics poses challenges for farmers. Despite this, three raspberry varieties thrived, producing larger, firmer, and tastier red fruits. Raspberry plants remained largely disease-free, though they need protection from slugs, snails, and occasionally, birds. Rain is usually sufficient watering; extra watering, acidic compost, sand, and topsoil are needed during dry spells.
Raspberry Season in the Subtropical Eden Read More »
Berries, Plant Care
Chayote (Sechium edule) is a versatile, low-maintenance plant that can grow as a vine. All parts are edible and it is a valuable source of pollen for bees. Growing it requires planting the whole fruit, preferably once it’s sprouted, in loose soil. Necessary support ensures optimal growth. Maintenance includes regular watering and allows for harvesting within a month of planting.
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Plant Care, Plant propagation
Air-layers are vegetatively propagated plants, genetically identical to the parent plant. They bear fruit earlier than other propagated plants and have a decreased vulnerability to drought stress. They can be created without a rootstock and avoid graft rejection or dieback. However, there are some drawbacks: the process requires skill, they may lose some rootstock benefits, not all plants are suited for air-layering,
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Plant propagation
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The post discusses how to protect orchards and gardens from damage during rainy seasons using techniques like fruit thinning, which prevents branch breakage, promotes air circulation and reduces disease risk. Pruning is recommended in winter or dry summer to prevent plant diseases, however, timing varies by plant type. Training trees helps balance branch weight, distribute fruits evenly and improves air circulation.
Orchard preparation for the rainy season part 2 Read More »
Rainy season gardening in the subtropics
The rainy season comes with heavy rains, high winds and hail storms. Although the orchard and garden enjoy the extra water, the rains may cause damage to the soils and plants. Here are a few tips on minimising damage to the Plants and soils in your orchards and gardens.
Orchard preparation for the rainy season part 1 Read More »
Rainy season gardening in the subtropics
Seed propagation is a common method used to grow food, offering benefits like low cost, easy transport, and simple planting. However, it presents challenges especially for fruit trees including inconsistent fruit type, potential disease spread, high plant mortality rate, lengthy fruit-bearing time, and a lack of seeds in some fruits. Alternative propagation methods include cuttings, grafting, suckers, marcotting, and air layering, which yield true-to-type fruits faster.
Plant Propagation: Seeds Read More »
Plant propagation, Spring and Summer Gardening in the Subtropics
Celery, a perennial herb and a favorite in backyard gardening, is versatile and gives a meaty aroma to vegetable dishes. Two varieties grown in home gardens are drought-resistant due to deep roots and tolerate various light conditions. Potting in deep containers along with regular root division and re-potting prevents root binding. Fresh and dried leaves possess a long-lasting aroma and enriches dishes,
Cuttings are pieces of plants used to propagate new plants. Cultivation benefits include obtaining plants true to the parent type, cost-effectiveness, and ease of transport. While some plants root easily, others require specific techniques. Despite being initially smaller than seed-grown or grafted plants, cuttings are easier to manage. Rooting powders or natural products like honey and cinnamon can improve success rates,
Plant propagation: Cuttings Read More »
Plant propagation, Spring and Summer Gardening in the Subtropics
Nopales, an edible cactus variety, are easy to grow, drought and pest resistant, and can be maintained in a small space. High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, Nopales are used widely in Mexican cuisine. They can be consumed raw, grilled, or boiled, and are used in various dishes such as soups, pickles, and salads. Nopales also serves as a healthy meat substitute due to their texture when seasoned correctly.
Nopales in October Read More »
Vegetables, What is thriving this season?