January 2018 Issue #149

Hello,

What fun that we both love gardening. Thanks for joining me.

1) Soggy soil?
2) Eco gardening tips
3) Herb, Garlic and Cheese Bread

FREEDOM FOR CARROTS!

As kids don't play in the streets or go to parks so much now, it seems play equipment is provided at home. We also like to impress with the latest in outdoor entertainment, including massive shiny bbq's, cane lounge suits, swing seats, pools and fountains.

Eco gardening tips

• Soggy soil?
  Don't let your plants sulk with wet feet. It's simple to test the drainage of your garden by digging a hole about 20cm wide and 30cm deep (8 x 12"). Soak the hole well for 10 minutes and leave it filled to brim.
  
  

  If the water hasn't drained in 1 hour or it's still really soggy in 2 hours, then you will have trouble growing vegetables. Raised beds or underground drainage pipes are two solutions for you.

  
  

• Chilli lore
  Perhaps some chillies you grow are mild and some are smokin' hot, arrrgh. Here's a way to increase the flavour and, if they're hot chillies, reduce their heat. This is done by removing the seeds; and most chefs apparently do this anyhow. See a simple diagram on No-dig's facebook page




• Compost in containers
  If you're growing vegetables in containers — whether it be pots or planters — remember compost is too high in nutrients. It should be mixed with about 2/3rds of something else, such as ordinary soil, or mix of soil, peat or similar and pumice or vermiculite… depending on the type of plants grown. Read more about container vegetable growing here

Pebble Pillows!

So soft, such fun. You can buy these eye- catching garden gifts HERE.

Herb, Garlic and Cheese Bread

Ingredients

• 6 slices sourdough or preferably some wholemeal bread
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
• 3/4 cup shredded cheese, any sort, but Parmesan is delicious
• 2 Tblns chopped fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, oregano (optional).

Method
1. Preheat grill or toaster oven.

2. Mix butter, garlic and herbs well in a small bowl. Spread mixture on one side of each slice of bread, then sprinkle with cheese.

3. Put in toaster oven or grill until bread and cheese are golden brown, about 2-4 minutes. Serve immediately.

Preparation: 8 minutes
Cooking: 6 minutes
Serves: 3-6 people

Live, love and garden.
Megan