Saturday, January 19, 2013

small harvest


The harvest has been small so far.  Perhaps it is the absence of rain (one tank is empty) that is slowing growth.  By this time last year I was picking loads of vegetables but it's mainly hard work and little reward this season.  Still, it is good to pop a small tomato before watering and picking fresh basils for pesto.  I will plod on in the garden and keep it alive and will not give up on growing vegetables.

petunia

The petunia is grown for effect as it can produce an abundance of flowers in summer to create a pleasing showiness.  My regret this summer is that I did not buy more seedlings to spread all over the garden.  This water loving plant will do well for as long as there is enough water and sunshine.

Another variation to the red and white hues.

In deep purple.

Saturday, January 5, 2013

Flat peach


The flat peach tree is barely a metre tall and I intend to keep it low.  This is the fruit in October, developing very nicely.  The tree is now under netting as there are enough hungry creatures ready to plunder my precious fruits.


The peach looks ready but it is still firm.  There are enough fruits for the family and I hope they will ripen beautifully.  The flesh is white, sweet and juicy.


Fortunately the tree did not suffer the curl leaf blight, which affected the big peach tree.  Looking after fruit trees is just as demanding as bringing up children.

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

summer flowers


The jacaranda tree is dropping its flowers daily so sweeping is futile.  What is left on the tree is still a beautiful sight, adding a bit of colour to an almost green garden.


The agapanthus in blue and white are at their best.  The miniature versions in different part of the inside and outside garden make a bright display for the best part of summer.  I know that the agapanthus is decreed a noxious weed but the problem is easily solved by deadheading before the seed pods form.


These red poppies are a wonderful surprise.  It is really quite late for poppies but I noticed two plants in the box of spring onion and decided to leave them undisturbed.
I am waiting for the petunias to open up, as well as the sunflowers.