Down to Earth SA • Winter 2022

You’ll dig it!

Citrus season

Houseplant happiness!

See our leather range inside

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WHEN WE SAY “BUILT WITH CARE” WE REALLY MEAN IT

“Surrounded by nature. Built with care.”

If you’re familiar with who we are and what we stand for, you’ll know that it’s our promise for every resident who chooses to make us their home.

From our location to finishes and even community, every element of life at Renishaw Hills has been “built with care”. Our award-winning homes and indigenous gardens are the epitome of this ethos, with designs that celebrate our surroundings to deliver the ultimate indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Where our finishes are concerned, we spare no attention to detail. Instead, we go all out to make sure that every property is one we’d relish in calling “home” ourselves.

For more on how you can live the holiday and enjoy every moment just as our residents do, arrange a tour today or take a virtual one on our website: renishawhills.co.za/house-tours.

Sharyn 079 853 8946 | Kelly 087 135 5555 | sales@renishawhills.co.za | www.renishawhills.co.za

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EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief & Publishing Director Jason Aarons jason@isikhova.co.za Creative Director Joanne Brook joanne@isikhova.co.za Design intern Zian Cornelissun Guest Contributor Jenny Slabber, Talborne Organics Wordsmiths Khwezi Makeba and Zack le Roux

Editor-in-Chief's

message

It’s a typical winter’s day in Jozi as I pen this note.

Clear blue sunny skies, chirping birds, the sudden madness of a hadeda (very typical! Oh, by the way, page 37 is a must-read), a gentle, rather icy breeze accompanied in the distance by the sound of an ice-cream truck – talk about seasonal perseverance. Wonderful childhood memories of vanilla soft-serve Choc 99s with sprinkles rush through my head. I want to run outside in my winter woollies and wave furiously at it to stop. And that song! It’s called Music Box Dancer and was recorded in the 1970s

by Canadian musician Frank Mills, although it was slowed down somewhat for the ice-cream “combi”!

The quandary is obvious: I’m trying to reconcile what the weather and audio look and sound like with what the temperature really is. I’m conflicted. My weather app says 5°C, my palate says “ice-cream” and my garden says “don’t leave me”!

HOWEVER: don’t let cold weather and a chilly wind fool you into thinking you need to hibernate and ignore your garden – either outdoor or indoor. South African winters are among the best seasons to get the most out of your home garden, with veggie planting extending the autumn harvest season.

There are essential tasks too. Days of glühwein and rose-pruning lie ahead, soilcare so that you can grow well to eat well, a host of seeds and seedlings to plant, and creative houseplant ideas for happy indoor vibes. You can go big on bonsai too. Our citrus feature will give you more than just lemons and is a must-read, with the bonsella of a spicy citrus jam recipe to try.

It’s a winter wonderland out there. Grab your hot choco and your beanie and get inspired!

Pictures Editor Amahle Jali Copy Editor Anne Phillips BUSINESS Managing Director Imraan Mahomed imraan@isikhova.co.za Director: Brand Strategy Jenny Justus jenny@isikhova.co.za Operations Director Thuli Majola thuli@isikhova.co.za Marketing Director Lamees Mahomed lamees@isikhova.co.za Advertising Manager Ruwayda Mahomed ruwayda@isikhova.co.za Down to Earth SA is independently published by Isikhova Media (Pty) Ltd 10th Floor, Metal Box, 25 Owl Street, Milpark, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa Telephone +27 11 883 4627 www.isikhova.co.za Subscriptions & general enquiries downtoearth@isikhova.co.za The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the owners, the publisher, contributors or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its contents, neither Down to Earth SA, the owners, the Editor-inChief, the publisher; media alliance partners nor any of its endorsed organisations or contributors can be held responsible for any omissions or errors, or for any misfortune, injury or damages which may arise therefrom. The same applies to all advertising. Down to Earth SA © 2022. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publishers.

Yours at the ice-cream truck…

Jason

savvy thinkers smart doers together people

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Contents 4

INDOOR INSPIRATION From House & Home

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COME ON IN! An inviting front door entrance

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WINTER WONDERLAND This season’s stand-out colours

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DELIGHTS AND DISCOVERIES Great finds for your garden and home

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DAYS OF GLÜHWEIN AND ROSES All you need to brave the cold for rose-pruning

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AN EYE ON JULY Beat the winter blues

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“RIGHT,” SAID VEG! Get the best of your winter veggie planting

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SECRETS OF THE SOIL Great gardening starts with fertile soil

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THE MAGICAL MARIGOLD Cheerfulness in your garden

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THE NEED FOR SEEDS Our pick of the bunch to plant

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SPECIAL FEATURE: CITRUS A must-have in any organic garden

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JUST JAMMING A hot and spicy citrus jam/marmalade

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HOUSEPLANT HAPPINESS Ten of our favourites

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HERBS “FUR” PETS Herbs to maintain and improve pet health

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SILL LIFE Don’t hibernate!

Five fun winter gardening activities

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SHADY CHARACTERS Indigenous trees

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GO BIG ON BONSAI It’s no small feat to grow these

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DO THE CAN-CAN! The timeless, useful and decorative watering can

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HAA-HAA-DE-DAH! SA's "Flying Vuvuzela"

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THE GARDEN CANVAS Discover artists inspired by fabulous flowers

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GREEN READS Let your fingers do the walking through our green pages

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OUT AND ABOUT What’s happening on the green scene

congrats

Winners of a crate of Tangled Tree wine from Van Loveren (autumn issue) Sharon Moir, Uvongo Catherine Swanepoel, Louis Trichardt Peter Spencer, Roodepoort Bianca Sidelsky, Johannesburg Sandra Solomon, Johannesburg

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Indoor inspiration

All Alpine products carry a comprehensive warranty from the date of purchase.

from House & Home

Couches are a perfect choice of furniture to have in your home, particularly if you want an authentically rustic, classic look with a touch of the modern/ contemporary, or a lounge that oozes understated style and elegance. And House & Homes’ “Alpine Range” is one of those evergreen beauties that will serve

you, your family and friends incredibly well all year round.

Alpine started manufacturing couches in 1969 and its current range includes stateof-art motion and static suites, couches and occasional chairs, all made from the best-quality raw materials.

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Chairs and couches Top-of-therange raw materials, timeless elegance and quality are what you get when you bring any of these prime choices into any living space Motion suites Alpine’s motion suites are crafted with relentless attention to detail and great finesse, with the aim of bringing

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long-lasting quality, comfort and style into your home.

Incliners Renowned for being the embodiment of quality and expert craftsmanship, all Alpine’s recliners are generously proportioned with high backrests to allow you to put your feet up in comfort. There's a range of motion actions to choose from.

Take a look at the beautiful collection of sofa accessories offered by House & Home and shop your way to a warm winter!

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Bring your own extra personal and cosy winter touch to the Alpine range selections in really easy ways with House & Home Place a throw blanket or two on the sofa.

Add cushions that have heavy knit or faux fur covers.

Add colours with warm undertones.

House plants are ideal, as are succulents and, of course, freshly cut or even dried flowers (Try bowls of potpourri too!)

Use rugs as layers of insulation.

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Decoist

Decoist

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on in!

Their versatility in adding instant colour – whether you choose individual plants, mixand-match varieties or even vegetables and herbs – means you can adapt your interior or exterior cloudscapes as season change too. And, of course, they provide bold focal points in your garden and add to the design and architecture of your home.

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Greenwood Nursery

Whether your penchant is for terracotta or a glazed finish, square, round, rectangular or something truly unique, pots afford you gardening creativity second to none: from simple to elaborate, the possibilities are limitless.

Decoist

Come

Make your front door entrance as welcoming as your garden and let it be a vista to your creative green endeavours

Pexels - Ksenia

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Confetti bush

Brighten up beds, borders, pots and patios this season

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Gladioli

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Poppies

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K ra

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wonderland

Pinterest

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erie

s

Winter

you'd prefer not to be visible. For example, introduce orange into your yard to prevent garden guests from noticing your neighbour’s garbage cans or piles of bricks and timber.

Protea This season’s standout colours shine through in a glamorous, fun and magical mix which contrasts calmness with exuberance. Options include orange-reds and sun yellows contrasting with floral pink and cool turquoise, resulting in a refreshing range of varying hues.

Shades of red, orange and yellow usually catch the eye fastest, so use plants and art in making focal points of these bold, bright colours. They’re also perfect for diverting attention from objects

Strelitzia

There are no hard-and-fast rules when choosing colours. A bold chartreuse green might fall into the “warm” category, while a softer, pastel shade of that same green might fit right in with a cool palette. The most important design tip? Choose plants and colours that you love.

For glorious, instant gratification, nothing beats bedding plants.

Just a few trays of seedlings, strategically placed where they’ll make the most impact, will transform your garden into a kaleidoscope of brilliant colours.

Many bedding plants also grow beautifully in containers. A few groupings of flowering pots and hanging baskets will instantly add a warm and welcoming touch to entrances, patios and other areas.

Above all, have fun!

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Ixiaviridiflora

"Choose plants and colours that you love" Lavender

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Delights & discoveries Orchid blue laptop tag.

R785,00. Lou Harvey

Men’s sunflower field socks.

R140,00. Mungo & Jemima

Ladder pot stand – rustic brown.

R660,00. Cape Garden Centre

Elho Vibes fold coupe pot.

R279,95. Folha

Cutting board glass, printed, 30 x 40cm. R99,00. The Crazy Store

Rustic Bordallo cabbage collection.

Various prices. Bordallo Pinheiro SA

King protea crate, medium.

R199,99. MRP Home

Annabelle sparkling wines. Cuvée Blanche and Cuvée Rosé. R89,99. Cuvée Rosé non-alcoholic – R84,99. Checkers

Katherine Castle Floriade 20cm plate Ranunculus.

R155,00 (sale price). Maxwell & Williams

All prices sourced at time of publication. Down to Earth SA cannot be held liable in any way whatsoev

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Our seasonal collection of fabulous florals

Women’s 1460 Vonda floral black lace-up boots. R1 182,00.

Dr Martens Boots SA, factory shop

MM Linen Valencia duvet cover set. Online only.

R1 899,00-R3 099,00. @home

Flame lily tissue box.

R21,99. Pick n Pay

Botanics floral food cover – set of three.

R225,00. Takealot

Cabinet Fleur.

R26 399,00. Kare Design

Melissa & Doug Pretty Petals watering can. Kid-size.

R189,00 (sale price). Homestuff

ver for price differences and/or any additional costs involved in delivery or shipping, where applicable.

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Vintage botanical jar candle – Indian Summer. R349,95. Vendage

Large glass head vase – Smoke.

R445,00. Famous Mountain

Carnation hand-painted tiffin – sunshine yellow. R750,00. Pilgrimage Spaces

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roses

Days of glühwein and It’s winter, so grab a mug of hot glühwein to drink while you don your winter warmers, grab your (sharp) pair of secateurs to brave the cold and start your rose-pruning!

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“Pruning is best done in late July and early August,” says rose-grower Ludwig Taschner.

“It takes a month for the dormant ‘eyes’ on the rose bush branches to sprout, by which time daylight is lengthening, temperatures are rising and the new shoots with the flowering buds on the tips are able to start stretching and forming new leaves.”

If pruning is left until even later in August, the rose bushes will flower later in October.

Remember, it’s better to do some pruning than none at all.

THE EIGHT BASICS You'll be surprised to learn that modern roses don’t need as much pruning as you think.

Follow these steps to ensure your roses thrive: 1. Remove all remaining leaves This allows you to see the structure of the bush and clearly see all the canes (stems). This step also removes any pests or diseases that may have been hiding over winter in the foliage.

2. Start with dead wood How do you know it’s dead?

Cut into it – brown wood is dead, green wood is living.

Cut any dead wood back to the base.

3. Open up the centre of the plant Take out crossing branches which can rub, causing damage and encouraging disease. The goal is to have upward-reaching

branches with an open structure in a vase-like shape.

4. Remove any thin, weak growth The basic rule of thumb is to remove anything thinner than a pencil.

5. Prune the remaining canes Prune by cutting 0,6-1,2cm above an outward-facing bud eye (a small bump found where a leaf would meet the stem). New stems grow in the direction of the bud and the goal is to encourage them to grow outwards, not inwards. Make cuts at a 45˚ angle, sloping away from the bud and allowing water to run off.

6. Seal fresh cuts Protect freshly cut canes from rot and rose-borers by sealing the wounds with a compound like Steriseal. Taschner, however, says it isn’t necessary to seal the cuts

Always use a pair of sharp secateurs. Wear gardening gloves to protect your hands from the thorns.

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on the rose stems, but it’s a good idea to spray the plants with an insect spray.

7. Clean up After pruning, be sure to clean up the surrounding area underneath. All leaves and cut branches should be disposed of, as diseases and pests could be lurking.

8. Feed your roses Roses are “big eaters” and need proper nutrition, so feed them with a long-lasting fertiliser from August onwards.

Fertilise each bush by sprinkling a handful of balanced rose fertiliser around its base. Water thoroughly after fertilising. It does wonders to work in rough compost and/or mulch around the roses at a fork’s depth just after pruning. They love loose, aerated soil!

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“July is all about colourful comforts in the garden and enjoying the hearty harvest winter has to offer,” says Life is a Garden. “Keep your beds looking lush with a sensational selection of flowers available from your Garden Centre Association [GCA] garden centre. Don’t forget your July maintenance to help your garden stay in top shape and ready for the last cold stretch.

Enjoy the journey with your landscape and take some time to appreciate the remarkable changes of Mother Nature.”

An eye on Beat the winter blues

Top tip: Use bird netting or frost cover sheets to deter birds, while also allowing light and air into the veggie garden.

• Surround yourself with colourful comforts available at nurseries now: primose, alyssum/ lobularia, violas, pansies, verbena, Primula malacoides, Primula obconica, Primula acaulis and ornamental kale.

• Robust succulents: Aloe humilis “hedgehog”, Aloe ferox and Aloe speciosa.

• Gems: Krantz aloe, Basuto kraal aloe, nandina, viburnum, camellia, holly and elaeagnus.

• Indoor babies: Move indoor plants to warmer parts of the house, if needed. Also check that your plants are getting enough light.

A flying reminder: Help the birds out and ensure your birdbath and bird-feeder are well-stocked.

Food is scarce for flyers during the winter months.

Life is a Garden is the marketing division of the SA Nursery Association (SANA), a member-driven, non-profit organisation which strives to promote gardening as a hobby in the country for all South Africans. To ensure the highest standards, SANA’s garden centre members form part of the GCA, which strives to continuously improve the quality of products, knowledge and customer service within garden centres. These GCA garden centres can be identified by yellow and green GCA flags, present at garden centres and home stores nationwide.

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July

Everything edible • Garden centre treasures: Fig, olive, grape, cherry, peach, plum and apple trees are available at GCA Garden Centres from July.

• Harvest now: Horseradish, asparagus, celeriac, parsnips, sweet potatoes and waterblommetjies.

• Split and divide: Divide your asparagus and rhubarb now for a larger yield and remember to mulch well after transplanting.

• Support: Stake broad beans and Brussels sprouts to give them more support and increase growth.

• Feed: Remember to feed your winter veg seedlings with nutritious fertilisers and compost. Also, feed your spring bulbs and clivias now.

• Mulch up: Mulch beds well to retain warmth and moisture.

• Water down: Be careful of overwatering during winter.

Every third day should be sufficient.

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“Right,” said

Did you know that South Africa’s winter is one of the best seasons to get the best out of your home garden? Winter vegetable planting extends the autumn harvest season while increasing and maintaining the crop harvest in early spring.

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veg!

◀ Perpetual spinach is a wonderful source of vitamin K in your home diet.

One of its greatest advantages is that it grows very quickly, so you’re assured of harvesting its healthy leaves from season to season. Continuous removal of the flowers ensures a perpetual production of fresh, nutritious leaves.

◀ Cauliflower is one of the best vegetables to grow in winter because you don’t have to worry about pests eating your crop in the cold weather.

▶ Green peas are a highly nutritious cool-season vegetable. To enjoy an early crop and the nutritious benefits of peas next spring, consider planting them as autumn comes to an end. Peas are resilient to environmental conditions, as well as soil and crop disease.

◀ Bulb onions come in various shapes, sizes and colours, are easy to grow and will virtually look after themselves over winter. They take six to eight months to mature. The bulbs are ready to pull when the leaf tops dry out and fall over.

▲ Thyme is known for its extra touch of aroma. This hardy herb is low-growing, so it makes great groundcover. It can survive in extreme weathers and soil conditions. Its hardy nature enables it to grow well and its evergreen leaves will greatly complement your vegetable garden.

▶ Garlic is one of the easiest winter vegetables to plant. It shares various common traits with the scallion onion. For example, it tends to take a longer growing time.

As a result, planting it in late autumn or early winter will take it the entire spring to mature. The garlic will be ready for harvesting in early summer.

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Secrets of

the soil

Grow well, eat well

Great gardening starts with fertile soil, so the focus of organic gardening is on building soil fertility by conditioning the physics, biology and chemistry in the following ways:

All three aspects impact soil fertility While conventional soil fertility programmes focus on N,P and K, the balanced fertility approach considers not only the full spectrum of chemical elements necessary to optimise crop yields, but the biological and physical factors that impact production as well.

1. Mulching planted areas – to save water, maintain temperature and suppress weeds.

2. Adding compost – for good structure and water retention, feeding soil life and humus.

3. Correcting chemistry and nutrient levels – to adjust the pH and fertilise for vigorous, pest-free plants.

Talborne Organics VITA fertilisers are scientifically formulated to deliver complete plant food and ensure plant productivity and quality. (See nutrient deficiency chart.)

A balanced diet for plants includes 18 essential nutrients: Major nutrients Nitrogen (N) – Promotes healthy green leaves.

Phosphate (P) – promotes strong roots and productive plants.

Potassium (K) – promotes flowers and fruit, builds strong cells.

Minor nutrients Calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and sulphur (S).

Micro-nutrients Boron (B), chlorine (Cl), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), molybdenum (Mo) and sodium (Na).

Visit: www.talborne.co.za

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Make your brand voice take root and really grow with Down to Earth SA

Book your brand slots and social media campaigns now Call Jenny Justus on 011 833 4627 / 083 450 6052 or e-mail: jenny@isikhova.co.za

10th Floor, Metal Box, 25 Owl Street, Milpark, Johannesburg • 011 883 4627 • www.isikhova.co.za

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These bright and cheerful orange and yellow flowers will liven up any garden, patio or other space. They flower from late autumn, throughout the winter and into early summer, and are ideal in beds, as borders and in container gardening. Pot marigolds are also known to attract butterflies and other beneficial insects to the garden and, if planted in big groups, are magnets for bees.

These flowers are good companions for winter crops of cauliflower, broccoli, broad beans and cabbage.

marigold Caution: Do not take internally when pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not use on deep cuts or lesions, as rapidly healing skin might close an infection inside the wound.

INTERESTING FACTS:

The name “calendula” is a diminutive of the Latin “calendae”, meaning “little calendar”, “little clock” or possibly “little weather-glass”.

The common name “marigold” refers to the Virgin Mary.

Marigolds have been grown in the gardens of Europe since the 12th century. By the 14th century, many had learnt of their numerous and varied “magical powers”.

Medieval Roman poet and herbalist Aemilius Macer (Macer Floridus) described marigolds in his volume on botanical healing and suggested that merely gazing upon the blooms could improve eyesight and draw evil “humours” (toxins) from the head.

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Uses: Astringent Antifungal Antiseptic Relieves inflammation Wound-healer Pungent Bile stimulator Menstrual regulator

Pexels - Kanashiu

The magical

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seeds

◀ Lifestyle Home Garden six-pack (seasonal)

The need for

Our pick of the bunch for July and August.

Remember, grouping your seedlings together in the garden according to their watering requirements and mulching will save you a lot on water bills.

Alyssum Asters Begonias Cosmos Dahlias and bedding dahlias Daisies Dianthus caryophyllus “Sunflor” Gazanias Lavender Lobelias Osteospermum Marigolds Nasturtiums Pansies Pelargonium Phlox Salvia Snapdragons Sweetpea Bijou Verbena WINTER 2022

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Citrus must be the juiciest, freshest and most health-giving fruit on earth. Gardeners can choose from a wide variety, or have a tree of each – oranges, grapefruits, lemons and easy peelers like naartjies, minneolas, satsumas, kumquats, pomelos and more.

Citrus

a must-have in any organic garden WINTER 2022

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If there’s one tree a garden can’t be without, it’s a lemon tree!

This versatile and useful treasure just keeps on giving – and all it requires to do so is a little attention.

Lemons are full of healthy vitamin C to boost the immune system, fight colds and soothe sore throats or coughs when mixed with honey. An early-morning drink of hot water and lemon cleans the digestive system. Add a slice or two to your cocktail, squeeze lemon over fish, chicken or avocados and use it in the laundry for natural cleaning and bleaching. It’s also a useful beauty aid to slough off dead skin cells and lend a fresh glow to your face, hands and elbows!

However, gardeners seem to feel challenged by the maintenance of healthy, productive citrus trees – either the tree doesn’t bear fruit, the fruit drops before maturing or insect control is a problem. The easy secret to healthy citrus trees is correct planting, fertilising and watering.

Best conditions for citrus trees Citrus trees can be planted in most frost-free areas of the country, even in cold regions if they’re sheltered from wind. The soil should be well drained and a light texture and waterlogged or heavy clay aren’t suitable, as they could lead to root disease. The pH of the soil isn’t a significant factor, but planting in soils with high salts (brack) aren’t recommended.

Trees can be planted about 5m apart: check for the spread of mature trees when buying from your nursery. Smaller tree varieties like naartjies, rough skin lemons and ornamentals do well in pots, if adequately cared for in small gardens. Position them in full sun.

How to plant citrus in a container

1 How to plant a citrus tree in the garden 1. Prepare a planting hole that will cover the root ball of the tree. Remove the pot or sleeve and position the tree in the hole.

2. Mix the soil dug from the hole with 1L of quality compost and 150g Vita Grow 2:3:2(16) organic fertiliser. Then fill the hole around the root ball with this soil mixture.

3. Water well, then mulch with wood chips placed up to 10cm of the stem to prevent root or collar rot.

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Select a suitable size container that will allow the roots to grow to maturity.

2 crockery over drainage holes.

Vita Grow 2:3:2(16) at 3 Mix 20ml for medium pots, or Place small stones or broken

50ml for large containers, into a good-quality potting soil.

Organic earthworm castings can be added to enrich the potting soil.

the sleeve or pot 4 Remove around the citrus tree, position the tree in the container and fill it with potting mix.

5 Water well.

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Feeding citrus Citrus trees are very productive, so they’re hungry. Give them a feed of organic fertiliser Vita Fruit & Flower 3:1:5(18) every four months in their producing cycle to maintain flowering, fruiting and tree health.

Post-harvest, feed with Vita Grow 2:3:2(16) to nourish roots and build up energy reserves in the tree for the new season. Disease and pest attack is usually a symptom of a stressed tree, resulting from a shortage of water or food.

Water regularly Many problems associated with growing citrus can be linked to inadequate watering, especially in summer rainfall areas, where trees are often neglected during winter.

Citrus fruits are full of juicy cells, so the trees require a soaking of water every two weeks in dry periods if planted in soil and at least twice a week if planted in containers. Adjust the watering to the season and climate.

Organic cures for citrus Spray to control: Sooty mould, citrus psylla, scales and mealie bugs are all linked to ant activity, so the correct treatment is to spray

"Citrus trees are very productive, so they’re hungry"

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COMMON PROBLEMS FOR CITRUS Sooty mould is quite frequent on citrus. It’s a fungus which grows on honeydew produced by insects such as aphids, mealie bugs and scale insects. These insects are usually placed on dry, stressed plants and farmed by ants which feed on the honeydew. Although sooty mould doesn’t directly damage the tree, it may reduce photosynthesis, affecting plants' food production and making trees most unsightly.

Citrus psylla (little bumps in new leaves) and aphids are usually confirmed by ant activity up the tree stem and along the branches.

Mediterranean woolly aphids, woolly white flies or woolly scales all attack stressed lemon or citrus trees, especially out of the rainy season.

the base of the soil, up the tree trunk and onto leaves to control the insects with Biogrow Pyrol diluted at 10ml per 1L of water. Follow up seven days later to knock out the problem. Biogrow Organic Pest & Disease control is available from leading garden centres.

Feed to correct: As an indication of stress in the tree appears, feed it with a drench of either Talborne Nourish 5:1:4(10) Multi-Plant or 4:1:6(11) Buds, Flowers & Fruit.

Apply at a rate of 5ml per 1L (foliar feed) (per citrus tree apply 2L of mix) for quick results and apply Talborne Organics Vita Fruit & Flower 3:1:5 Fertiliser 500g-1kg per tree, depending on its size and age. Also ensure that the tree is watered at least once a week in hot, dry weather. It takes a lot of water for a citrus tree to bear fruit.

Planting/Pruning Use Vita Grow 2:3:2(16) for planting new citrus trees and to feed/fertilise when pruning – trees need higher phosphate at these stages for root development and vigour to grow well. As an additional foliar feed option, use Nourish 5:1:4(10) Multi-Plant for foliar feeding, applied every two weeks or when the plant shows any signs of stress.

For flowering and fruiting Use Vita Fruit & Flower 3:1:5(18) for feeding/fertilising before the onset of flowering.

Use Nourish 4:1:6(11) Buds, Flowers & Fruit for foliar feeding, applied every two weeks or when the plant shows any signs of stress.

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Subscriptions E-mail your name to downtoearth@isikhova.co.za with “Subscribe” in the subject line.

General enquiries downtoearth@isikhova.co.za

10th Floor, Metal Box, 25 Owl Street, Milpark, Johannesburg • 011 883 4627 • www.isikhova.co.za

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Just

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HOT AND SPICY CITRUS JAM/MARMALADE A super-easy recipe for a citrus jam that’s both sweet and savoury – and sugar-free too. It’s just a case of grating the zest from the fruit (avoiding bitter white pith) and chopping up the flesh (including all the juice). The result is a delicious mix of sweet and spice. Instant heaven!

Preparation time: 10 mins

With thanks to Karon Grieve, Larder Love

Cooking time: 55 mins Yields: 4 jars of joyously juicy citrus spiced jam Will keep for: Up to one year. Once opened, store in the fridge and use within a month.

Ingredients • 1 lemon, unwaxed or scrubbed • 6 oranges, unwaxed or scrubbed • 1 small red chilli, minced • 5ml (1 tsp) fresh ginger, grated • 1,5ml (1/4 tsp) sea salt • 60ml (4T) honey • 30ml (2T) basil, coriander and mint (mixed) Instructions • Remove zest from fruit using a microplane grater so that it’s very fine.

• Chop the flesh (avoiding the bitter white pith).

• Put the chopped flesh and all the juice in a pan. Bring to the boil, then simmer for about 40 minutes.

• Add all the other ingredients and cook for a further 10-15 minutes.

• Carefully ladle into sterilised jars and pop on the lids while they’re still hot, so that a vacuum is formed.

Serve as a condiment with toast, as a sandwich spread with smoked turkey, as a sauce for grilled or blackened chicken or pork chops, or as an appetiser topping with cheese and crackers.

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Houseplant happiness

10 of our favourites

Healthy, happy indoor vibes from houseplants are really easy to create and are also a practical and affordable way of transforming your living area

Anthurium Anthurium bloom in red, white or pink and rebloom well in medium to low light.

TLC: Keep soil consistently moist.

Bromeliad guzmania You might think this bromeliad needs a lot of light to produce such vivid colours, but it prefers low light and can’t take direct sun.

TLC: Many other bromeliads also thrive in low-light conditions, so check the label on your variety before you buy.

Dracaena Mass cane or corn plants (Dracaena fragrans) are lowmaintenance evergreens from Africa.

TLC: Grow them under artificial lights or in low light.

If their leaf colours fade, they may be signalling their need for brighter, filtered light.

English ivy There’s really a timeless elegance to ivy and it trails down furniture or trellises for a pretty effect. Plus, it’s supereasy to start a new plant for yourself or a friend by cutting a section of the stem.

TLC: It likes moist soil and cooler room temperature conditions, ranging from about 10-21˚C. Ivy should dry out between waterings.

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Ferns Ferns can add a tropical look to your home. Many make wonderful, low-maintenance houseplants.

They do well in hanging baskets because of their naturally bushy, drooping form.

one of the easiest houseplants to grow. They thrive in a variety of conditions, making them perfect for any home.

of greenery to a room. If you prefer a smaller plant, just turn your rubber tree into a shrub shape by pruning any long stems.

TLC: Give them well-drained soil and indirect light to flourish.

TLC: Water your ferns frequently to keep their soil moist, but not waterlogged or soggy. They need bright, indirect light and will endure cooler temperatures, but generally like warmer rooms.

Rubber tree This easy-to-grow indoor houseplant will grow into a 2,4m-tall tree, adding a major pop

TLC: Allow the surface of the rubber tree’s soil to dry out between waterings. It thrives in lighting conditions from medium to bright and a range of room temperatures, from about 15-26˚C. Zebra plant This attractive, dwarf succulent is a must for succulent-collectors and makes a great indoor plant.

Monstera The monstera, also known as a delicious monster or the Swiss cheese plant, is a show-stopper.

This plant is perfect for adding a big, bold, tropical feel to your home. It tolerates all types of lighting conditions and helps purify the air.

TLC: It can tolerate full sun, but flourishes in the shade and, as such, thrives indoors – even in the darkest spaces. Water it well when the soil is dry, until the water drains freely, and feed it once a month during growing season.

TLC: Bright light, with no harsh sun, but it can handle some gentle sunlight. Water it thoroughly and allow the top part of the soil to dry out between waterings. Keep the soil barely moist in winter.

Spider plant/Chicken and hen Spider plants are adaptable and

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Lemongrass

There’s a wide selection of herbs to maintain and improve your pets’ health – and many can be planted in a spot or container where your cat or dog has direct access to their favourite herb plant.

Rosemary

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Fennel

Oregano

Herbs “fur” pets!

Catgrass gives cats a ready supply of essential vitamins and minerals often missing from their diets and is a natural aid to hairball removal.

Dogs, birds, guinea pigs and rabbits also love catgrass.

Catnip can send a cat into a state of euphoria for up to 20 minutes due to a chemical called nepetalactone which acts as a nerve stimulant when sniffed.

Fortunately, it isn’t addictive, although it was used to trap mountain cats in the past! Use dried catnip to stuff toys or sprinkle under bedding.

Garlic

Catmint is a smaller, more ornamental form of catnip and can be used in much the same way.

Comfrey can be used as a poultice on skin abrasions.

Parsley

Fennel is said to repel fleas and lice around henhouses. Make a flea deterrent by stuffing a jar with fennel and then filling it with hot vinegar. Leave for a week and then dab it onto your dog every day.

The fennel helps deter fleas and the vinegar soothes rashes.

Garlic is said to repel fleas when one clove is added to a dog’s meal every day.

Lemongrass releases oils in hot weather that can deter flies. Try plaiting it into a dog collar or planting it around the kennel.

The citronella oil used in lamps is derived from lemongrass.

Oregano has long been used to aid digestion in animals.

Parsley is very high in calcium and iron. A few sprigs thrown into a fishpond aids sick fish. It also helps sweeten bad breath and relieve flatulence and arthritis in dogs. Use it in small amounts.

Rosemary made into an infusion can be applied to the skin twice daily to relieve irritations.

Thyme contains a chemical called thymol which has antiseptic qualities and can be made into an infusion for skin irritations.

Watercress is often nibbled on by fish and also provides a shelter from above.

A WORD OF WARNING Not all herbs that are helpful for humans are helpful for pets and, in fact, some can be quite dangerous and toxic. It’s always best to consult a veterinarian for advice on herbal and natural remedies for pets and how best to apply them.

Watercress

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Decorate your pots Dress up your indoor or outdoor pots and show off your personality. Cover a terracotta pot in mosaic tiles, make a stacked planter or turn a chair into a unique plant-holder. Get even more ideas by clicking here.

No need to go into complete hibernation in winter. Here are five fun activities to keep you creative and inspired.

Enjoy!

Sprout your own seeds, beans and grains Sprouting is a way of creating “living plants”, loaded with nutrients, vitamins C, B and E and carotene. Sprouting also helps the absorption of minerals because they're better digested.

Sill Learn something new Take advantage of the slow, short, darker days of winter and learn something new. We have a great selection of “green reads” for you on page 40.

Create a windowsill garden If you have a sunny windowsill, there are plenty of options for winter gardening. You’ll need to keep an eye on temperatures, especially if your windows aren’t well insulated. Grow microgreens, herbs and more by following these windowsill gardening tips.

Plant an amaryllis bulb This is a good time to pick up amaryllis bulbs on clearance. I have a few started and can’t wait to see those big, beautiful blooms in about six weeks. when I’m really over winter. See the post: How to Grow Amaryllis Bulbs for the Perfect Winter Flower.

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Tasty Yummies

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Shady

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characters

Tree SA

Meet two indigenous trees that are terrific choices to grow

The pompom tree (Dais cotinifolia) is one of the best-known and best-loved indigenous trees, tough enough to be used as a street tree and small enough to fit into most gardens. When in flower at Christmas, it looks like a giant candy floss, as it transforms into a cloud of soft pink balls. Its natural home is the eastern part of SA, where it grows on the margins of forests, wooded hill slopes and in stony kloofs. It’s fast-growing, fairly drought-resistant once established and frost-hardy. It reaches its full height within four to five years, flowering from about the second year. The trees can be lightly pruned if necessary, young trees becoming very bushy if the leader is trimmed. Flowers are produced on the previous year’s growth, so any pruning should be done after flowering.

Trigg Plants

Olive sagewood (Buddleja salviifolia) is a very hardy, drought-resistant, fast-growing, multi-stemmed, large shrub or small tree with grey, quilted leaves and graceful arching branches.

It bears wonderfully fragrant, small cream to lilac flowers in long sprays from July to October that attract a myriad of insects. It’s also a wonderful bird and butterfly tree that can be used as a nurse plant to protect other plants in very cold areas. Plant in welldrained soil as a windbreak or as part of a mixed border. Prune regularly to keep it looking neat and tidy. It also makes an excellent hedge, as it can become a little scruffy. Its full size is 3-8m. Its leaves are browsed by game. Fresh and dried leaves make an aromatic herbal tea. A decoction of roots provides a remedy for cough and relieves colic, while an infusion of the leaves is applied as an eye lotion.

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▲ Known as the oldest bonsai tree in the world, the Ficus retusa Linn is also one of the rare luxury bonsai on this list not displayed in Japan.

This tree is in a display room at the Crespi Bonsai Museum in Italy after the owner of the museum, Luigi Crespi, worked for over a decade to buy the tree. The Economic Times ▶ The Taikan-ten Bonsai exhibition in Kyoto is one of the biggest celebrations of bonsai in the world. This Sargent juniper bonsai tree sold for $350 000 at an auction there. Facebook

Go big on It’s no small feat to grow this tree

bonsai

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Pexels - Cottonbro

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The word “Bon-sai” is a Japanese term which, literally translated, means “planted in a container”.

Bonsai trees are incredible creations of living art and the product of many, many years of hard work and loving attention. They symbolise a union between art and nature and represent boundless beauty, balance and simplicity.

The oldest bonsai in the world Estimated at well over 1 000 years old, the Ficus retusa Linn in Italy is believed to be the oldest living bonsai tree today.

It's kept at the Crespi Bonsai Museum near Milan, Italy. It stands at over 3m high and just under 3m wide.

The most famous bonsai in the world “Goshin – Protector of the Spirits” is arguably the most famous bonsai in the world. It was created

by American-Japanese horticulturist John Naka and is actually a combination of 11 separate Chinese juniper trees, each representing one of his 11 grandchildren.

The most expensive bonsai tree in the world Sold for $1,3 million at the International Bonsai Convention in Takamatsu, Japan, in 2012. It was an 800-yearold white pine of exceptional size and quality.

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The largest bonsai in the world A 600-year-old red pine bonsai that's nearly 5m tall is believed to be in the Akao Herb & Rose Garden in the city of Atami, in the Shizuoka prefecture of Japan.

The smallest bonsai in the world The smallest bonsai tree known to the general public is an Acer momiji species.

Any tree species can be a bonsai Contrary to popular belief, there's is no such thing as a “bonsai” species of tree. It's possible to make a bonsai from almost any species of tree or shrub.

The most common species for bonsai are maple, elm, juniper and ficus.

Bonsai trees can produce fruit Many people still don’t believe this until they actually see it. Another common misconception is that the fruit will also be miniature in size. This isn’t true, as the trees aren’t genetically modified, so the fruit will be of normal size. The most popular species used in bonsai are fig, crabapple, lemon, orange, mulberry and cherry.

(With thanks to Mythical Bonsai)

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Do the

cancan!

◀ SEBOR. 10L. R134,00. Leroy Merlin

◀ The Good Roots, galvanised metal watering can.4.5L. R329,00. Builders

Timeless, useful and even decorative, the watering can is the basic tool of the real gardener. Its history is fascinating and it would take many pages to relate – but can you guess when the first watering can was used? Originally, the watering can was just a goatskin used to transport water from point A to point B. Over the years, though, its shape evolved. In medieval times, it was a “chantepleure” (French for “sing and cry at the same time”, referring to the joy of being filled (singing) and then having the water poured out (crying)). A chantepleure originally took the form of a funnel, with no spout or handle, and closely resembled the fruit of the coloquinte. ◀ Burgon and Ball British Bloom.

Indoor watering can.

1L. R599,00.

Fine and Fabulous

◀ Out of stock at Wantitall, but we love it and had to share!

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Pexels - Mikhail Nilov

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◀ Retro stainless steel.

1.5L. R574,00. Fruugo

▶ WhaleLife indoor watering can for house bonsai plants. Long spout 1,4L. R795,00. Wantitall

Why choose a metal watering can?

The charm and beauty of a zinc watering can are incomparable. Secondly, since these watering cans are also very robust, they last longer and don’t rust. Whether they’re zinc, copper or galvanised steel, they all carry trace elements essential to man in small quantities. They also have a sanitising effect on water. Zinc oxide has fungicidal and antiseptic properties. These are details that matter to anyone who wants the best for their plants!

In later eras, the watering can became much more rounded, with a spout (rather than a simple hole) and, eventually, holes for sprinkling.

Plastic, copper or zinc – it’s up to you Whether your watering can is made of metal or plastic is a matter of not only personal style and taste, but also of weight, strength and ease. Plastic is certainly a much cheaper material, with greater flexibility and much lighter weight, which means it can better withstand shocks without being pierced.

However, it must be said that plastic is less aesthetically appealing and also grows less solid over time. ◀ Novelty Lucky Duck. Yellow. 3,7L. R288,56. Amazon ▼ Umbra’s Quench Watering. 1L. R999,00. Kitchenique

An object that enhances your living space Today, whether it’s small, stylish or traditional, your grandparents’ watering can will find a place in your home for its vintage, aesthetic and fashion aspects. Its surprising shape and refreshing colours make it an ultra-trendy object that can compete with your flowerpots and other decorative objects. So dust off that classic garden tool!

(With thanks and acknowledgement to Guillouard)

"Originally, the watering can was just a goatskin used to transport water from point A to point B" ▲ Eva Solo Aquastar. 2L. R599,00. Yuppiechef

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Love Birds. Love Your Country.

Wherever you are in our country, birds are there with you.

In towns, in cities, in villages and on farms, in your garden, in your street.

In the bushveld, in the Karoo, in the Kalahari, in our nature reserves.

In woodland, in forest, on mountains and in kloofs.

On our coasts from Saldanha to Sodwana, offshore, onshore.

Celebrate the joy and the wonder… love birds, love your country.

BirdLife SOUTH AFRICA

Giving Conservation Wings

www.birdlife.org.za

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Haa-haa-de-dah!

“It’s as South African as boerewors and pap. Its call is as familiar and annoying as the hooting and tooting of minibus taxis during peak traffic,” wrote Dominic Naidoo, environmental activist and writer. “This bird’s ability to wake people up on a Sunday morning is envied by even the most dedicated roosters in the country.”

Some call it a “flying vuvuzela”, recalling the din of the plastic horn used by stadium fans during the World Cup soccer tournament in SA in 2010.

According to a popular joke, a hadeda makes its grating call because it’s terrified of heights!

It’s the hadeda ibis (Bostrychia hagedash), of course. Its loud, raucous, distinctive and trumpeting “haa-haa-de-dah”

call – which can build up to a deafening cacophony – isn’t easily forgotten! It’s usually heard when the birds are flying, startled or communicating.

“A visit from a hadeda is a sign of a healthy garden, teeming with smaller wildlife species,” says Glenice Ebedes of Grounded Landscaping. “Their probing search assists with the aerating of soil and the control of insect populations. Apart from earthworms, their diet consists of slugs and snails, spiders, crickets, insects on the ground and small reptiles (lizards and frogs).

“They’ve been known to occasionally eat dog food from bowls. They’ll visit a ground-level water feature to drink and bathe.”

Several websites offer a ringtone download of its cry.

Some ornithologists credit the hadeda’s dietary preferences with curbing the population of the “Parktown prawn”, a king cricket named after a Johannesburg suburb that can creep or leap into homes at night, horrifying residents.

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The garden

canvas

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Discover artists inspired by fabulous flowers

Precious petals, beautiful blooms, trees, the sky, blossoms and flowering buds have long inspired artists to create masterpieces.

Besides their environmental significance, flowers have also attracted artists for their rich symbolism and, of course, their diverse colour palettes. Our garden canvas embraces a few.

1. Claude Monet Monet’s series of water lily paintings have become his most recognisable works. Comprising about 250 oil paintings, they capture his flower garden in his home in Giverny, France. Many of the works were painted while he suffered from cat-

aracts and became his main focus during the last 30 years of his life.

2. Vincent van Gogh Van Gogh made two series of his now-iconic sunflowers. The first series, done in Paris in 1888, depicts the flowers lying on the ground. The second, more famous set was executed a year later in Arles, France, and shows a bouquet of sunflowers in a vase.

3. Georgia O’Keeffe As a gardener, O'Keeffe was often inspired to make a dozen or more paintings of a specific flower. It’s said that she became interested in the brilliant colours and billowing

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petals of canna lilies when she visited Lake George, New York, in 1918. The red canna series began with watercolour depictions of these vibrant flowers, but O’Keeffe progressed to abstract, close-up images in oil, which now epitomise her Modernist style.

4. Andy Warhol Warhol’s series, Flowers, is made up of 10 screenprints based on photographs taken by Patricia Caulfield which were featured in the June 1964 issue of Modern Photography magazine. Warhol made the photographs his own by flattening and cropping them, and adding vibrant, contrasting colours.

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(With thanks and acknowledgement to My Modern Met and Google Arts & Culture for specific information)

5. Édouard Manet Impressionist master Manet created flower paintings throughout his career, culminating in a group of 20 floral still-lifes, most of them produced in the last year of his life, when he was terminally ill. Manet’s friends often brought him fresh flowers, which he then painted at his bedside.

6. Pierre-Auguste Renoir Renoir had a lifelong passion for flowers, but only began painting them later in his career. “I’m at liberty to paint flowers and call them flowers, without their needing to tell a story,” he declared.

Although his paintings of everyday

life were popular, he also painted vases of tangerine-toned gladiolas, pale yellow dahlias and pink roses.

7. Piet Mondrian Dutch-born Mondrian came from a long cultural tradition of flower art.

This early still-life, Amaryllis, was done well before his better-known abstract works, which are rooted in geometry. Mondrian subscribed to the Fauvist style of art.

8. Portchie Portchie (Viljoen) is a South African post-war and contemporary painter who was born in 1963. His paintings are a mixture of Impressionism and Expressionism, boldly expressed in a

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naïve manner. The blue trees which populate his paintings have become his trademark, since they symbolise strength to the artist.

9. Gustav Klimt Enchanted by the landscapes he saw while summering in Litzlberg, Austria, Klimt produced a set of paintings depicting fields of flowers during his Golden Phase.

Flower Garden, or Bauerngarten, is regarded as one of his finest landscapes and depicts a multitude of flowers tumbling out of the frame. The work, which sold at auction in 2017 for $59,3 million, celebrates the rustic charm of a garden without relying on realism.

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Green reads 1. Indigenous Plant Palettes

by Marijke Honig (Quivertree)

This book is all about choosing the right plants for a particular space and purpose in your garden.

R415,00, Takealot

2. The Little Book of Bonsai by Jonas Dupuich (Ten Speed Press) A great bonsai book for beginners.

R350,00, Seeds for Africa

3. Grow Your Own by JJ van Rensburg & Tinus Oberholzer (Briza) A comprehensive guide providing practical guidelines that will teach you how to fully utilise your garden (large or small) by means of both alternative and traditional growing methods. Also available in Afrikaans.

R300,00, Readers Warehouse

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4. Jane's Delicious A-Z of Herbs: A Guide to Growing Herbs Organically in South Africa by Jane Griffiths (Jonathan Ball) A full-colour, richly illustrated, hands-on guide to growing and using these productive plants.

R248,00, Loot

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5. Dr. Seuss's Thank You for Being Green (Penguin Random House) A perfect gift for people of all ages – children, parents, teachers, friends and anyone who makes a point of reducing, recycling and re-using. R148,00, Raru

6. Citrus (BookSumo Press) Fifty delicious recipes using citrus in your meals. R213,00, Exclusive Books WINTER 2022

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MUST-SEE! Pretoria National Botanical Garden, Pretoria Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden, Thohoyandou

Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre, Pretoria

Out and

about

To feature a garden event, show or happening, e-mail details to: downtoearth@isikhova.co.za

Until 9 July Aloe Festival, The Aloe Farm, Hartebeespoort www.thealoefarm.co.za 10 July and 17 July Shepstone Gardens Open Gardens, Johannesburg www.shepstonegardens.co.za 16 July Hydroponics For You Workshop at HomeGrowers, Edenvale www.homegrowers.co.za

MUST-SEE! Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town

9 October Garden Day, countrywide www.gardenday.co.za

MUST-SEE!

MUST-SEE!

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, Roodepoort

The Big Garden at Babylonstoren, foot of the Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley

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GIFTS THAT WILL GROW ON YOU Personalised flowerpots, gardening hampers, aprons, bird boxes and gardening tools.

Contact Lamees Mahomed | lamees@isikhova.co.za Mobile 084 590 5123 | Landline 011 883 4627 | www.isikhova.co.za Branding available