GARDENS IN TAUPO

Taupo Times, Volume IV, Issue 170, 29 April 1955, Page 3

GARDENS IN TAUPO

Autumn Tints ,

(By

Flora)

Now that rain has come, after one of the most trying of summers as far as the Taupo gardener is eoncerned, plants that seemed near death have taken a fresh lease of life. And with the coating of dust washed from the foliage we see the glory of the autumn colourings, and realise anew the value of those trees whose leaves tuni such heautiful colours as winter draws near. Now is the tirne for newcorners to Taupo to take stock, and decide which of these lovely trees will be planted in their newly-laid-out gardens. There are many to choose from but I the favourite for Taupo is the Scarlet Ortk (Quereus coecinea). This needs space, as its eventual height may be 50 feet. The Silver Birch (Betula Alba) is a popular Taupo tree, and its golden foliage certainly earns il is pluce. The Liquidainbar is also a large tree when fully grown, but its red and yellow leaves are glorious. The Dogwoods (Cornus-florida rubra). too, turn to a blaze of colour, almost claret coloured in the autumn. Of those trees that do not grow to such a size, the Maples are perhaps the loveliest. To give of their best they need a sheltered .situation. or

strong winds will brown the foliage There are many varieties to choos from and one that is often recom mended is Acir Ginnala. Rhus cotin oides, with its flaming orange anc yellow leaves, is certainly worthy o a place in every garden. Lasfc Minute Jobs It is not too late to plant your nar cissus, hyacinths, tulips and ranun culus, but you must delay no longer. Plant a row of broad beans foi spring picking. About two weeks be fore planting dust the bed with supI erphosphate and potash, one ounce each to the square yard. Then when the drill is open for planting sprinkle with bonedust. It is rather late for the sowing of blue lupins as a cover crop, but oats or barley are quick maturing and can be used instead. Some gardeners sow all the seeds that they have over at ! the end of the season to serve as green manure to be dug in before the spring sowings. It has been a disappointing season for the winter Brassica, the white butterfly grub was particularly troublesome this year, nor did the Cabbages and Brussel Sprouts relish the dry conditions, and only where the soil was particularly good did they survive. If obtainable, you may still plant out Flower of Spring cabbage plants, which will come away quickly when the wanner spring weather arrivesCut back all spent perennials. You may divide them up now, or wait and do it in early spring. Lift polyantlius from their summer home and plant out in the beds in which thev are to flower. They do best in a rich loamy soil, or one that has been well fortified with well-rotted animal manure and a good rlressing of blood and bone.