Pruning, Propagation, Water Management, and the Artichoke Highlight
Pruning, Pest Control and Weeding
This month, we continue weeding and pruning trees and grapevines to improve aeration and encourage strong productivity. These tasks also help reduce disease pressure and maintain balanced growth across the orchard. We also replaced the pheromone lures for diamondback moth, tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta) and fruit and melon fly traps.
Propagation Work
We are also harvesting air layers and collecting cuttings for rooting. However, we avoid diseased or scale‑infested branches, since they root poorly and may reintroduce pests. Therefore, we select only vigorous, clean material for propagation.
Watering and Soil Amendments
We have increased watering and added soil amendments to boost nutrients and improve moisture retention. As a result, plants are better protected against drought and recover faster if flash floods occur.
Warm‑Season Pest Checks
Warm weather brings new shoots, yet it also increases threats from aphids, whiteflies, scale insects, and mealybugs. Thus, we inspect every plant thoroughly, starting at the base and moving up to the highest branches. Additionally, tall plants receive extra attention because pests often hide in upper growth.
Pollinator Support
The bees remain well supported, as fruit trees and herb plants continue producing abundant blossoms. As a result, pollination stays strong throughout the garden.
Ongoing Harvests
We continue harvesting fruits, spices, and vegetables. Furthermore, root crops like ginger, turmeric, giant purple yam, and galangal are now ready, despite delayed sprouting caused by August’s cold weather.
The Globe Artichoke Highlight
Among all thriving plants, the globe artichoke stands out beautifully this week. It has produced heavily on every stalk, and its flowers show different stages of development. Consequently, the large plants create an ornamental presence that rises above the surrounding fruiting and flowering species. We share the beauty of the green globe in our latest images from Subtropical Eden.
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