ROUND THE GARDEN

Taupo Times, Volume I, Issue 8, 6 March 1952, Page 6

ROUND THE GARDEN

HINTS FOR TAUPO CONDITIONS During February, Taupo has experienced alternate high temperatures with drying winds, and occasional light rainfall, the latter a great joy to the gardeners, for one and all had been casting anxious looks at the parched beds, and rather wilting plants. It is stocktaking time in the garden. Note the flowers that are out just now, lots making a brave showing. The daisy family is a particularly good stand by for this time of the year. The following do well in our light soil: — Gaillardia, Corcopsis, Chasta Daisy, Heliapsis, Phlox both annual and perennial, Godetia and Pentstemon. The Perennial Asters are also good subjects, likewise the Golden Rod.

Besides making these mental notes on what to plant for next year. We must see to a few jobs as well. Cuttings of many shrubs and other garden plants can be taken now. They are best placed in a shady spot, and covered for the first few days with an inverted glass jar, or placed in a cool frame. The point of this treatment is to prevent all leafy cuttings from wilting. In taking cuttings of shrubs it is best to select new side shoots, and pull off with a small heel of older wood. Shorten shoots to about six inches, and remark the two lower leaves. It is helpful to the striking of these cuttings if they are first treated with a rooting hormone. Cuttings should be planted firmly, and the ground kept moist. Among the plants which can be propagated in this way are sweet william, catmint, carnations, pansies and pentstemons. Many shrubs also including lavender, ornamental brooms, hydrangeas, buddleias and japonica. If you want early Iceland Poppies it is not too soon to sow the seed. Keep the seed boxes in a cool shaded position, until the seed has germinated, After that, more light but not direct sunlight, should be given. When the seedlings are large enough to be handled, prick them out into other boxes. Hedges can be clipped now. The last needed for this season. Cut back faded perennials, top-dress with compost, and many will give a second flowering. Break off faded flowers from Gladioli as the flowers droop. And cut off the spikes completely, when all the flowers are over.