PLANT OF THE MONTH
KEY POINTS:
Frangipani is a deciduous tropical shrubs from warm climates.
On account of its astounding beauty the frangipani has found its way into cultural and religious practices in countries where it grows.
The flower's fragrance is irresistible, and colours can be combinations of white, yellow and pink. The shrub is ideal for both indoors and outdoors, on decks, conservatories and pool areas.
THINGS TO DO IN JANUARY
- Plant up your garden beds with summer flowering annuals.
- Spray your roses to prevent insect infestations.
- Plant or replant existing pots and planters for flowers through summer.
- Fruit trees need to be sprayed at this time to prevent fungal infections.
- Make sure they are watered thoroughly to get excellent fruit development.
- Existing lawns should be fertilised and treated for any weed invasions.
- Scatter snail deterrents around vegetable and flower beds.
- Side dress young plants with a general garden fertiliser or liquid feed.
- Keep up with weeding.
- Mound up soil around potatoes for bigger, better crops.
- Avoid cutting lawns too short at this time of year to prevent moisture loss.
- Remember to water all plants more regularly.
- Mulch all flowerbeds and liquid feed for strong, healthy growth.
- Spread mulch around garden beds to keep the moisture in throughout the warmer months.
WATERING AND IRRIGATION
In New Zealand, January is one of the hottest months. Your garden will suffer if it is not receiving enough water below the hard top surface of the soil.
Make sure with your watering that the soil is being completely drenched. If you have to, scrap away the top, hard layer of soil before watering to ensure the watering is sinking in.
Only water first thing in the morning or in the evening, never in the heat of the day. And never water the foliage of your garden. Make sure you are watering regularly, especially fruit trees as an inconsistency in watering can lead to less juicy or deformed fruit.
An easy way of watering your garden is to install an irrigation system with a timer. This way you can water your whole garden at once, for as long as you like, whenever you like.
