Garden Patch Autumn Garden

Peter introduced his talk with an amusing description of his unusual career path from Accountant to Nurseryman as well as the difficulties he has experienced in running his own nursery business, The Garden Patch in Hartwell. When Peter purchased the business some 20 years ago, it was a simple nursery, but now includes a floristry section and coffee shop / café.

Autumn in the garden 

Pests and Diseases:

Citrus - 

• Gall Wasps – Hang Insect traps before October ($8.95)
• Caterpillars – ‘Success’ by Yates
• Leaf Minor – Pest oil

Roses -

• Black Spot – Triforene or Rose Gun
• Aphids – Confidor
• Powdery Mildew – Rose Gun

Apples - 

• Wooly Aphids - Confidor

Feeding the garden:

     ‘Grow Better’ organic fertilizer has flowering elements ($25 for 15kg)

     ‘Grow Better’ Lawn Feeder

     ‘Seasol’ or ‘Charlie Carp’ Liquid fertilizer for root promotion

     Phostrogen Plant food (powder) for flowering 

Indoor colour:

Phylanopsis Orchids - 

• Indoor only – flowers for 6 months. Place in a south or easterly position with no direct sun. Water once a week, and even less when not flowering. After flowering cut above the growth bud. Should flower 3 times in 2 years.

Cyclamen - 

• Indoor and put out at night when cold. Don’t over water!!