SPECTACULAR GEM

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’

2 mins read

The Gardener

Preserving cauliflower

If cauliflower was a stock to trade, some would have made millions in the last few years as the humble cauliflower became one of the most versatile cruciferous vegetables in the kitchen. With an increase in the popularity of flexitarian, vegan, gluten-free, keto and plant-based diets, cauliflower is no longer only baked into a cheesy casserole, but spiced and grilled as ‘steaks’ on a braai, mashed, riced, sauced, powdered, blended and made into pasta or a crispy pizza base. There are not many vegetables that can do all that!

1 min read

The Gardener

Mushroom plant

Mushroom plant (Rungia klossii) is a bushy perennial with crisp, mushroom-flavoured leaves that are good for adding to salads or for cooking. Steam just before serving so that the leaves don’t lose their fresh green appearance.

1 min read

The Gardener

TIME FOR wild hyacinths!

We told you in January that planting bulbs would be a great trend in 2021, so March is a good time to kick off your annual bulb planting quest with the indigenous wild hyacinths, also called Cape hyacinth, Cape cowslip and, more botanically correct, Lachenalia. Between South Africa and Namibia there are more than 120 natural species (some of which are sold in flower by specialist nurseries), but there are also many desirable hybrids bred by commercial bulb growers that are readily available in bulb form from the end of February.

2 mins read

The Gardener

A passion for roses

For five generations of gardeners, maybe more, Ludwig Taschner has been the friendly face of rose growing.

5 mins read

The Gardener

How To Extend The Harvest Of Baby Marrows

By March baby marrows are usually at the end of their productive lives, with most leaves covered in powdery mildew. Pulling them out is almost an act of kindness.

2 mins read

The Gardener

What To Do Now March

Aeoniums are commonly called tree houseleeks, which is an indication that they form substantial side stems topped with their typical fleshy rosettes. They are also described as subtropical plants, and so require more water and less arid growing conditions than other succulents.

1 min read

The Gardener

Veggies Are At The Frontline Of Health

Eating healthily to keep healthy and maintain a good level of immunity is as much of a strategy in this time of Covid-19 as wearing masks, social distancing and sanitising.

5 mins read

The Gardener

Top 10 Roses

There are over 150 rose species and thousands of hybrids, so compiling a Top Ten is something of a challenge. Here we have chosen some of our favourites, which we feel are essential for any good rose garden.

4 mins read

The Gardener

The Gentle Giant Among His Roses

A lifetime love affair with roses has shaped this expansive farm garden.

5 mins read

The Gardener