If you want a winter veggie garden you need to get cracking now. Wednesday, 04 March 2020 13:38 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Kohlrabi Image by Pezibear from PixabayThe usual planting time for planting a winter vegetable garden in the colder regions of South Africa is March, April and May, but in warm frost free areas, most crops can be planted throughout winter.
It’s March, and time to prepare for your winter and spring flower garden. Tuesday, 03 March 2020 16:07 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Image by Jill Wellington from pixabayIn many regions of South Africa, in the evenings and early mornings, there is a distinctive ‘nip’ in the air reminding us that autumn is knocking on the door and it’s time to get our gardens ready for a stunning winter and spring garden.
Brussels sprouts taste better when harvested after a spell of frost Monday, 02 March 2020 13:52 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Brussels Sprouts Farm. Image by Florin Birjoveanu from PixabayWhen you prepare them the right way, Brussels sprouts have a mild, sweet, almost nutty flavour, but when they're overcooked, they have a bitter taste with a slimy texture, and a strong, sulphur-like smell, giving them a bad rap, especially with children. However, Brussels sprouts are finally getting their due, with simple yet creative recipes from around the world taking centre-stage in homes and restaurants alike.
All you need to know about Orange Jasmine Thursday, 20 February 2020 13:26 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Murraya exoticaOrange Jasmine (Murraya paniculata 'Exotica') is a handsome evergreen which has been widely planted in warmer parts of the world, and in South Africa. It is a close relative of the citrus family and a really handsome medium-sized to large evergreen shrub with gorgeous glossy, deep green leaves that emit a citrusy aroma when crushed. Even its clusters of sweetly scented pure white flowers smell like orange blossoms, hence the common name "Orange Jasmine."
Fresh basil will add a whole new dimension to your dishes Tuesday, 18 February 2020 13:07 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Image by Selling of my photos with StockAgencies is not permitted from PixabaySweet Basil remains one of the most popular kitchen herbs, and in summer when the intoxicating scent of fresh basil fills produce markets, enjoy its brief season fully. The sweet-and-spicy flavour of basil is welcome in so many cuisines and will add a whole new dimension to your dishes!
Figs are best eaten fresh under the tree Saturday, 15 February 2020 16:43 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Image by jhfl from PixabayWorldwide, the common fig remains one of the most popular fruits, prized for its soft sweet flesh which goes in so many delectable dishes, and everybody loves them – fresh, dried, stewed, preserved, roasted, paired with cheese, or just toast with fig jam - figs are simply irresistible! And one of the best ways to enjoy them is to eat them fresh from the tree, so if you really love figs, why not try your hand at growing your own!
The pincushion flower is a classic yet thoroughly modern plant Tuesday, 28 January 2020 13:08 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Modern gardeners are looking for good-looking plants which perform at their best with a minimum of fuss. They also want plants which are not susceptible to many pests and diseases, because they wish to reduce or eliminate the need to spray poisons in the garden.
Onions are the staple of every major cuisine Thursday, 23 January 2020 09:31 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Smoked Salmon Salad. Image by Free Photos from PixabayToday onions are grown and eaten in more countries than any other vegetable, and unlike wheat, are a staple of every major cuisine and truly a global ingredient. This devotion to the onion is shared by most cooks, and it is rare to find a cookery book that that is onion-free.
A Bamboo Palm is one of the top air-purifying plants for indoors Tuesday, 14 January 2020 13:52 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Image created by FreepikThis graceful multi-stemmed palm has a soft, leafy appearance which will enhance indoor spaces, and is a lovely addition to tropical and subtropical gardens. It is known to be one of the top air-purifying plants for indoors, and a natural humidifier, improving the air quality of your home or office, as well as adding a relaxing tropical feel.
Noteworthy trends shaping the gardening world in 2020 Thursday, 09 January 2020 13:07 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Create a green spaceGardening is rising in popularity throughout the world, and a big hit with younger generations who are drawing on the knowledge of older generations, incorporating it into our changing world, and using technology in clever and inspiring ways, knowing that as we enter a new decade it becomes more and more important to create healthy and happy places to live, and what better way to do it than with plants.
Wishing all my guests a blessed Christmas Wednesday, 11 December 2019 16:12 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Imagine! Wednesday, 11 December 2019 12:41 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Allow time for yourself this holiday season - these lazy summer days are the stuff of dreams and daydreaming, when the day seems to last forever and the fun never stops.
This quote by John Lubbock captures this special time of the year beautifully: “Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time.”
