Gallery - How-to

Photos that illustrate ways to get started.

Mulching garden beds

Mulching garden beds well in the heat of summer helps conserve moisture in the soil and suppress weeds.

Worm farms

Worm farms are a wonderful way to convert kitchen scraps to valuable plant fertiliser and plant tonics (in the form of worm juice). Read how JUSTIN RUSSELL set up a worm farm kit he found at the back of his shed - here.

Avoid treated timber

When building raised garden beds and other garden structures, avoid treated timber which contains chemicals that can leach into the soil. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains more, here.

Steel water tanks

When choosing water tanks, steel is a long-lasting material that won’t have to be sent to landfill when it degrades in 10 or 20 years time.

Compost heaps

Compost heaps can be free-standing or contained. Always make them at least 1m x 1m so they generate good heat. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to make a compost heap from cheap, locally sourced materials, here.

Chicken enclosures

When building or choosing chook enclosures, make sure the mesh is sturdy enough to keep out foxes, wild dogs, snakes and goannas.

Bamboo poles

Bamboo or even long sticks can be used to create growing structures for crops such as beans. Just create a tee pee shape and tie together at the top with wire or durable twine.

Hand-pollinating zucchini flowers — Photo: iStockphoto

Hand pollination

If some of your vegie crops such as cucumber and zucchini are not producing fruit, or fruit withers on the vine, poor pollination may be the culprit. Hand pollinating the female flowers early in the morning can ensure a good harvest.

Durable garden tools

When choosing garden tools, especially ones that will be used regularly, look for long-lasting durable metal and wood. JUSTIN RUSSELL gives his advice, here.

Keep pruning tools clean

When pruning or harvesting, make sure you dip your tools in methylated spirits before moving to a different plant or crop to reduce the chance of spreading disease.

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