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In the garden: January



1. BRING IN THE FROGS Build a frog pond to attract not only frogs but also birds and lizards. Ensure the pond is shallow at the edges, gradually deepening to 60–70 cm, though it can be shallower if needed. The varying depths provide different water temperatures, allowing tadpoles to move to cooler water during hot weather and retreat to deeper areas when disturbed. For added beauty and habitat, plant Louisiana iris and waterlilies.

2. SEEK OUT SUN LOVERS Summer is the time to plant tropical fruiting trees to ensure they get established before the cold weather sets in. Mango, guava, passionfruit, paw paw, dragon fruit and macadamia all thrive in the heat. Choose a hot spot with full sun and wind protection.

3. MAKE THE CUT Prune apricots, nectarines and peaches immediately afterfruiting. This reduces the amount of water they need over summer and encourages new growth, which will be fruiting wood for next season.

4. SEE OFF FRUITFLIES! Fruit fly control is essential for stone fruit, fruiting figs, mango, citrus and tomatoes. There is no single control method for Queensland fruit fly. Exclusion nets can eliminate the need for spraying, while lures, traps, and sticky baits provide additional assistance.

5. LET IT HANG Summer-flowering orchids such as Stanhopea nigroviolacea, the upside-down orchid, is an epiphytic orchid, native to cooler areas of South America. It can be grown in temperate climates as well as subtropical and tropical. The flowers are strongly perfumed with a vanilla fragrance and emerge from the base of the plant in spring to autumn. Best grown in ahanging basket lined with paper bark so the buds can push through the base and flower through the bottom of your basket.

TYLER’S TIP
Protect young seedlings with a little bit of shade. A few fern fronds make a great umbrella, but little parasols or beach umbrellas are great too!