tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30936886634639717142024-03-13T13:06:22.406+02:00companion planting - organic gardeningcompanion planting is about planting plants with each other to achieve optimal growth, it is a natural way to control pests in your organic garden and get the most out of your naturally grown crops. Achieve healthy abundant gardens using companion planting methods.jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-28907722774924369632016-04-04T19:36:00.000+02:002016-04-04T23:14:18.683+02:00The South African Planting and Companion Planting Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqyF_EIXqBQ/VwJdYyuSEAI/AAAAAAAADGE/wUzOa9-_gWAg9vJvouTJRfFtR2NuOOoNQ/s1600/guide%2Bcover%2B2011%2Bfor%2Bkindle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqyF_EIXqBQ/VwJdYyuSEAI/AAAAAAAADGE/wUzOa9-_gWAg9vJvouTJRfFtR2NuOOoNQ/s640/guide%2Bcover%2B2011%2Bfor%2Bkindle.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The South African Planting and Companion Planting Guide is available, hot off the press. The South African Planting and Companion Planting Guide gives you comprehensive information about over 150 plants that you will find useful as a gardener in South Africa. Companion Planting allows you to get maximum potential from your organic garden, be it a huge organic farm or a small urban organic garden.<br />
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Full colour copies cost R200.00<br />
Black and White copies cost R100.00<br />
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Postage cost not included.<br />
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Get your copy today!<br />
jeanninedavidoff@gmail.com<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbtmBjiy9-8/VwJiezdhmWI/AAAAAAAADGY/7UkZ0KcEn9MaiFDJgzTK0F57xcfOkJRKA/s1600/guide%2Bcover%2B2011%2Bgreyscale%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbtmBjiy9-8/VwJiezdhmWI/AAAAAAAADGY/7UkZ0KcEn9MaiFDJgzTK0F57xcfOkJRKA/s640/guide%2Bcover%2B2011%2Bgreyscale%2Bcopy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-14856877533027848662014-07-11T18:15:00.000+02:002014-07-11T18:23:28.203+02:002 day course at Oranjezicht City Farm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TMAnZ_zvTwM/U8APWr-rMxI/AAAAAAAACuY/KizXziXB0es/s1600/SAM_6309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TMAnZ_zvTwM/U8APWr-rMxI/AAAAAAAACuY/KizXziXB0es/s1600/SAM_6309.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fourganics-Organic-Training-Cape-Town/623862591041634?ref_type=bookmark" target="_blank">The Fourganics Organic Training</a> Team will present a 2 day introduction to Organic Food Gardening on 2 and 3 August 2014. Be sure to join Karen Parkin, Brian Joffin, Jeannine Davidoff and Mario Graziani for an exciting adventure at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OZCFarm" target="_blank">Oranjezicht City Farm</a>.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.ozcf.co.za/" target="_blank">Oranjezicht City Farm</a> is well known for its Saturday morning food market, where you can get the healthiest, freshest produce in Cape Town. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OZCFarm" target="_blank">Oranjezicht City Farm</a> is teaming up with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fourganics-Organic-Training-Cape-Town/623862591041634?ref_type=bookmark" target="_blank">Fourganics Organic Training</a> to give you the opportunity to learn the art and science of food growing.<br />
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The Oranjezicht City Farm (OZCF) is a non-profit project celebrating
local food, culture and community through urban farming in Cape Town. It
is located next to the corner of <a href="http://ozcf.co.za/about/">Sidmouth Avenue and Upper Orange Street</a>, Oranjezicht, adjacent to Homestead Park. Learn all about the history of the site of the farm <a href="http://ozcf.co.za/history">here</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvVXBvgIBHI/U8AMrx8ulGI/AAAAAAAACuM/9u8j_2CbdaI/s1600/Garden+Course+2+&+3+August+flyer+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvVXBvgIBHI/U8AMrx8ulGI/AAAAAAAACuM/9u8j_2CbdaI/s1600/Garden+Course+2+&+3+August+flyer+copy.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-62134322011078443622014-07-06T20:09:00.000+02:002014-07-06T20:09:12.796+02:002 day organic food gardening course<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aEQ8m7Fu_c8/U7mQSbCvJsI/AAAAAAAACtg/zb4-9a_YfNA/s1600/Garden+Course+2+&+3+August+edit+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aEQ8m7Fu_c8/U7mQSbCvJsI/AAAAAAAACtg/zb4-9a_YfNA/s1600/Garden+Course+2+&+3+August+edit+copy.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-33029969405123495742014-05-07T07:11:00.001+02:002014-05-07T07:11:04.895+02:002 Day Intro to Organic Gardening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.meetup.com/Fourganics-Cape-Town-Organic-Training/events/179540102/" target="_blank"><img alt="2 Day Intro to Organic Gardening" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5uiSrK1APUw/U2m_F20BdPI/AAAAAAAACog/oFXtD3dcIpk/s1600/Garden+Course+17+18+may+copy.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-47674714822153070102014-03-19T16:59:00.000+02:002014-03-19T16:59:28.758+02:002 Day Intro Course in Food Gardening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fPHvRvGf5dY/UymvG9lDh6I/AAAAAAAACkw/lWrNV4Z-548/s1600/Urban+Harvest+-+1st+course.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fPHvRvGf5dY/UymvG9lDh6I/AAAAAAAACkw/lWrNV4Z-548/s1600/Urban+Harvest+-+1st+course.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/karen.parkin.750?fref=ts" target="_blank">Karen Parkin</a> will be the main facilitator, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bengetz00?fref=ts" target="_blank">Ben Getz</a> will give some input <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_597498548" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeannine.davidoff?fref=ts" target="_blank">Jeannine Davidoff </a>will be guest facilitator <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_597498549" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>.</div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/alison.currie.3?fref=ts" target="_blank">Alison Currie</a>, cordon bleu chef, will cater.</div>
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Join us at the<a href="https://www.facebook.com/UrbanHarvestSA" target="_blank"> Urban Harvest Edible Garden</a> at Alphen Vet, Constantia, Cape Town </div>
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Don't miss this opportunity to get the best learning experience from these experts.</div>
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To secure your place; make your payment and confirm with an e-mail to <a href="mailto:tracy@urbanharvest.co.za" target="_blank">tracy@urbanharvest.co.za</a></div>
jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-69444916051239589132013-04-04T18:45:00.003+02:002013-04-04T18:45:39.283+02:00Layering Rosemary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RJOateRJiCA/UV0zpoFuifI/AAAAAAAABoA/yec0TcNIHgE/s1600/rosemary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RJOateRJiCA/UV0zpoFuifI/AAAAAAAABoA/yec0TcNIHgE/s320/rosemary.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Creating new Rosemary Plants<br />
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This Rosemary plant was a little old when I bought it and didn't perform well. One of the branches was looking healthy. I decided to layer it so that it would form a new plant. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PK-Mswaj4a4/UV0yo-CjY2I/AAAAAAAABn0/cSTV9EgXK6w/s1600/rosemary+and+rock+with+compost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PK-Mswaj4a4/UV0yo-CjY2I/AAAAAAAABn0/cSTV9EgXK6w/s320/rosemary+and+rock+with+compost.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Rosemary can be layered to form new plants<br />
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It is really simple to do layering. You need some compost and a small rock. This branch of the Rosemary was already lying close to the ground. I added some compost to the area where the new plant would take root. I pressed the branch of the rosemary into the compost and placed a small stone onto the branch to keep it in place. I did this in July and by September a new plant had formed.<br />
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Snip the branch and carefully dig out the newly formed Rosemary plant. Transplant to where you want it to grow. <br />
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Take care not to overwater rosemary, as too much water can kill it. Usually a good soak once a week is sufficient.<br />
<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-69199700641082604172013-04-03T23:57:00.002+02:002013-04-04T00:03:10.657+02:00Harvesting Linseed or Flax seed<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJpgDibG6TY/UVygH7rFk7I/AAAAAAAABnU/lAmh0YoNndo/s1600/Image4413.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJpgDibG6TY/UVygH7rFk7I/AAAAAAAABnU/lAmh0YoNndo/s320/Image4413.jpg" /></a></div>
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Harvesting Linseed / Flax<br />
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After a few months of drying on the plant the Linseed are ready to be harvested. The pods turn from green to an ochre colour. The Linseed husks become dry. You know that it time to harvest the seed when the pod crumbles to the touch. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7e7CXwCcAjw/UVygPFb1DGI/AAAAAAAABnc/MidBTODNHxU/s1600/Image4414.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7e7CXwCcAjw/UVygPFb1DGI/AAAAAAAABnc/MidBTODNHxU/s320/Image4414.jpg" /></a></div>
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Winnowing Linseed / Flax<br />
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The Linseed pods are subtle and beautifully shaped. As you crumble the pods, the shiny Linseed fall into your hand. You can winnow the husks in a light wind. Winnowing is done by pouring the seed and the husks from one vessel to another in a light breeze. The husks of the linseed will blow away on the breeze. The linseed themselves will fall into the container. This has to be done several times in order for all the linseed husks to blow away.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_R30ZqEsuRM/UVygYFNLWwI/AAAAAAAABnk/rFjrCuCOnUg/s1600/Image4415.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_R30ZqEsuRM/UVygYFNLWwI/AAAAAAAABnk/rFjrCuCOnUg/s320/Image4415.jpg" /></a></div>
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Linseed / Flaxseed in the diet<br />
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Linseed is known as a
fantastic laxative. Soak a teaspoonful in water overnight and in the
morning add the soaked Flax seed to your breakfast muesli.<br />
A few sprouts in salads are delicious. Flax seed oil is used for creaking bones.<br />
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Flax stems make Linen<br />
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Flax or Linen is derived from the stems of the plant. It is a long process, as the stems need to dry thoroughly before the outer layer can be removed, leaving the flax fibers ready to be woven into linen. Flax fiber is used for paper making. The ancient Egyptians are know to have used flax fibre. <br />
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For more information on how to prepare flax for fibre making refer to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flax">Wikipeidia</a> and other sites on flax fibre preparation. jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-27422460098329240102013-03-28T10:13:00.001+02:002013-03-28T10:16:49.903+02:00Plants to plant in April<br />
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Here is a quick guide to plants that can be planted in April.<br />
have fun preparing your winter garden<br />
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Barley<br />
Beetroot<br />
Birds Foot Trefoil<br />
Cabbage<br />
Carrot<br />
Broad Bean<br />
Chinese Cabbage<br />
Chicory<br />
Clover<br />
Diakon Radish<br />
Fennel<br />
Fodder Turnip<br />
Garlic<br />
Kohlrabi<br />
Lotus Major<br />
Lettuce<br />
Lucerne<br />
Lupins<br />
Oats<br />
Onion<br />
Parsley<br />
Parsnip<br />
Pea<br />
Radish<br />
Rye<br />
Seradella<br />
Spinach<br />
Snail Medic<br />
Swedes<br />
Swiss Chard<br />
Turnip<br />
Winter Wheat<br />
jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-59542258060365201262012-11-21T11:46:00.001+02:002012-11-21T11:46:17.662+02:00rainbird in the gardenThis morning i was working in my office and i heard a rustling sound. I stood up to look what made the noise. To my astonishment, there was a <a href="http://www.treknature.com/gallery/Africa/South_Africa/photo167329.htm">rainbird</a> sitting on the lawn eating a snail. Half an hour later it began to rain. Amazing.<br />
These birds are usually only seen when it is about to rain. The bird is known as Burchell's coucal - Centropus burchelli. It is incredibly beautiful.<br />
jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-48905009299598740192012-11-02T08:46:00.004+02:002012-11-02T08:46:49.357+02:00October Winner Congratulations Sammi! The October winner of the South African Planting and Companion Planting Guide. Hope your small plot of land becomes a cornicopia of abundant organic food.jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-15374647588239587402012-10-02T10:20:00.003+02:002012-10-02T10:24:33.921+02:00Spring has Sprung First WinnerLucky Barbara has won the first book. <br />
Please congratulate her on <a href="http://www.sprig.co.za/2012/10/spring-has-sprung-winners/comment-page-1/#comment-8163">Sprig Blog</a> and make your comment on the <a href="http://www.sprig.co.za/2012/09/spring-has-sprung-competition/comment-page-1/#comment-8152">Spring has Sprung</a> link to win next month's copy.<br />
Have a look at <a href="http://www.thegardeningblog.co.za/">The Gardening Blog</a> to see more about her gardening experiences.<br />
jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-75812949998025938942012-09-13T18:09:00.001+02:002012-09-14T13:29:06.961+02:00Spring has Sprung Competition 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eD6EH-Z-6Qg/UFH92xWk_FI/AAAAAAAABjM/px1YJfBnr1Y/s1600/guide%2Bcover%2B2011%2Bfor%2Bkindle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eD6EH-Z-6Qg/UFH92xWk_FI/AAAAAAAABjM/px1YJfBnr1Y/s320/guide%2Bcover%2B2011%2Bfor%2Bkindle.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.sprig.co.za/2012/09/spring-has-sprung-competition/">Spring has Sprung Competition</a> 2012<br />
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The South African Planting and Companion Planting Guide has over 150 vegetable, herb, flower and fruiting species mentioned and over 100 full colour watercolour illustrations. The guide has useful tips on when to plant, what grows well together, and what each plant is used for nutritionally and medicinally.<br />
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Make a comment on <a href="http://www.sprig.co.za/2012/09/spring-has-sprung-competition/">the sprig blog post</a> to enter and stand a chance to win a free copy of the South African Planting and Companion Planting Guide. For extra points, tell us all about your organic gardening and companion planting experiences. Let us know about the projects, eco-villages and innovations you are working on! (This is not true in fact – winners will be selected by Sprig using the True Random Number Generator but tell us anyway!)<br />
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The “Spring has Sprung” competition runs from 12 September till 30 November 2012. A monthly winner will be announced on the last day of each month of the competition. The winners name will be posted here on Sprig, on *earthwormproductions* website and on their Facebook page.jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-43412992230950535002012-08-10T12:59:00.004+02:002012-08-24T15:22:04.547+02:00Green finger tips - germinating lettuce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i10jOALXBi8/UCTlI8Ar-wI/AAAAAAAABgY/KxgZNTNVodI/s1600/2%2Bday%2Bold%2Blettuce%2Bseedlings%2Bgerminated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i10jOALXBi8/UCTlI8Ar-wI/AAAAAAAABgY/KxgZNTNVodI/s320/2%2Bday%2Bold%2Blettuce%2Bseedlings%2Bgerminated.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Geminating Lettuce seed<br />
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These lettuce seedlings are two days old. Lettuce seed germinates best when exposed to light briefly before planting. The seedlings will germinate in 2 to 3 days.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w5qIgCLTy6c/UCTnimvxQ9I/AAAAAAAABgk/p5aYDTaSkQo/s1600/lettuce%2Bseedlings%2B12%2Bdays%2Blater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w5qIgCLTy6c/UCTnimvxQ9I/AAAAAAAABgk/p5aYDTaSkQo/s320/lettuce%2Bseedlings%2B12%2Bdays%2Blater.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Lettuce seedling developing<br />
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Twelve days later the first true leaves are visible. Once there is more growth, the seedlings will be ready to transplant. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJYWI_XuIeI/UCT_yQQ4DOI/AAAAAAAABhI/6k_-PL1QIps/s1600/lettuce%2Bseedlings%2Bready%2Bto%2Btransplant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJYWI_XuIeI/UCT_yQQ4DOI/AAAAAAAABhI/6k_-PL1QIps/s320/lettuce%2Bseedlings%2Bready%2Bto%2Btransplant.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Lettuce seedlings ready to be transplanted<br />
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After another 16 days the seedlings are ready to transplant. <br />
jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-49727697648397310952012-08-06T16:19:00.001+02:002012-08-06T16:29:14.167+02:00green finger tips - flax or linseed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-255Yur2giEg/UBfcDkCI9hI/AAAAAAAABeI/dNcurtzjBJw/s1600/flax%2B1%2Bmonth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-255Yur2giEg/UBfcDkCI9hI/AAAAAAAABeI/dNcurtzjBJw/s320/flax%2B1%2Bmonth.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Getting to know Flax<br />
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Flax or Linseed is a fantastic plant to grow in the organic garden. It is a versatile plant which improves the soil and provides nutritious seed for human and animal consumption. <br />
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The botanical name is <i>Linum usitatissimum</i> <br />
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Growing Linseed<br />
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Linseed's shiny brown seeds are easy to grow. Broadcast the seed and water well. The seedlings should come up in 3 or 4 days. The flax plants in the first picture are about a month old. <br />
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The plants grow up to a meter in height. After the purple-blue flowers blossom, the seeds start to form in papery husks. When the husk are straw-coloured, the seeds have formed inside. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zZhc1VsczAc/UBfX_BgN_oI/AAAAAAAABdw/lhzDKDxks7M/s1600/flax%2Bflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zZhc1VsczAc/UBfX_BgN_oI/AAAAAAAABdw/lhzDKDxks7M/s320/flax%2Bflowers.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Linseed's uses<br />
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Linseed is said to deters potato bug. It helps to makes clay soil friable and is generally used as a green manure plant. Flax's stems are used for making paper and linen. Artists use linseed oil in oil painting and it is widely used as a wood protection. The most facinating thing about linseed is that it is used in the manufacture of linoleum. <br />
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Flax's Companion Plants<br />
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Flax grows well with potatoes and carrots. It makes a useful stakes for climbing peas. <br />
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Linseed's medicinal uses<br />
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Linseed is a well known laxative. A poultice of linseed will help draw out boils. <br />
Linseed oil added to the diet in combination with cheese or yoghurt is great for easing creaking joints in the body. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-byM5ao1Iuzc/UBfXhkJFUwI/AAAAAAAABdk/br1V7qPugL4/s1600/linseed%2Bflax%2Bflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-byM5ao1Iuzc/UBfXhkJFUwI/AAAAAAAABdk/br1V7qPugL4/s320/linseed%2Bflax%2Bflower.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-55094556857261371502012-07-31T14:51:00.000+02:002012-07-31T14:51:21.607+02:00green finger tips - dragonfly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0iQ-LvXkYg/UAAlNAtw7dI/AAAAAAAABTo/YgI7LxK5IgA/s1600/dragonfly%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0iQ-LvXkYg/UAAlNAtw7dI/AAAAAAAABTo/YgI7LxK5IgA/s320/dragonfly%2B1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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I was lucky enough to have this dragonfly pose on the aerial of my car. <br />
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Dragonflies belong to the <i>Odonata</i> order and there are many species. They eat mosquitoes, wasps, flies and ants. These amazing fast moving creatures can fly in all directions.<br />
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Read more about these amazing creatures by clicking this link to the <a href="www.dragonfly-site.com">dragonfly site</a>jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-27430200688284901632012-07-20T09:16:00.000+02:002012-07-20T10:17:23.187+02:00green finger tips - Paper Wasp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eqBlwkzOzO8/UAAf-wf-4RI/AAAAAAAABTY/vmHOtNa2lls/s1600/paper%2Bwasp%2B22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eqBlwkzOzO8/UAAf-wf-4RI/AAAAAAAABTY/vmHOtNa2lls/s320/paper%2Bwasp%2B22.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Paper wasps in the organic garden<br />
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Paper wasps or <i>Polistes fuscatus</i> are useful predators in the organic garden. They eat a variety of insects with caterpillars being their favourite. They feed on meat and plant juices. <br />
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Nesting habits of paper wasps<br />
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These amazing creature rasp the bark of trees, mix it with saliva and mould their perfect paper-like enclosures to lay eggs in. The wasp in the photo built its nest on my front door. I just removed it while the wasp was away. <br />
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Paper wasps inspire inventor<br />
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Fredrich Keller, a German inventor got the idea of crushing wood into fibre to make paper after watching paper wasps work.<br />
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Paper wasp stings<br />
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I got stung on the lip once by a paper wasp. The sting is a little more painful than a bee sting, but it subsided quickly. If you do have allergic reactions to stings it is best to get it seen to immediately.<br />
<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-47580644530919281272012-07-13T11:22:00.000+02:002012-08-16T17:49:38.183+02:00green finger tips - chickweed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eMcv_ILNRSM/T_bK5sHfCcI/AAAAAAAABPo/0l1KkZ8bpGg/s1600/chickweed+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eMcv_ILNRSM/T_bK5sHfCcI/AAAAAAAABPo/0l1KkZ8bpGg/s320/chickweed+flower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Introducing Common Chickweed<br />
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<i>Stellaria media</i> is known as Common Chickweed or Stichweed. Though it is thought of as a "weed", it is edible and has medicinal uses. <br />
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Common Chickweed in the organic garden<br />
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Common Chickweed has a myriad of benefits for the organic garden. Chickweed is a great living green mulch plant. It can spread like a pest but your soil's fertility will improve especially if you use it as a green manure. Just pull the plants out and lay them on the soil to decompose.<br />
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Chickweed for Chickens<br />
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Chickens can be fed on Chickweed and they will flourish. Rabbits are happy to nibble chickweed with their daily fresh greens.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6pf0m5NNyGM/T_bi5LpLaPI/AAAAAAAABP8/b0_AkQAL9O4/s1600/chickweed+plant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6pf0m5NNyGM/T_bi5LpLaPI/AAAAAAAABP8/b0_AkQAL9O4/s320/chickweed+plant.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Chickweed for moths and butterflies <br />
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These are some of the Lepidoptera species known to feed on chickweed:<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angle_Shades">Angle Shades</a> ,<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heart_and_Dart">Heart and Dart</a> ,<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riband_Wave">Riband Wave</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Setaceous_Hebrew_Character">Setaceous Hebrew Character</a><br />
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Medicinal and culinary uses for Chickweed <br />
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Common Chickweed is used to assist with bronchitis, athritis and period pain. Chickweed is said to cure mange and other skin diseases.<br />
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It can be eaten raw in salads and added to stews. <br />
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jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-11754202933563470952012-07-06T11:40:00.000+02:002012-07-06T11:40:44.837+02:00green finger tips - a mountain out of a molehill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFGQhMrBWe8/T_MAwTEE41I/AAAAAAAABN0/GRFiJ_fqW94/s1600/molehill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFGQhMrBWe8/T_MAwTEE41I/AAAAAAAABN0/GRFiJ_fqW94/s320/molehill.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Use your molehills<br />
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I love molehills for the free rich topsoil which the moles deposit on the top of the soil. I usually just flatten the heaps. The soil from the mounds can be collected and used in potting mixes.<br />
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Description and habits of Moles<br />
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Moles are members of the mammal order <i>Insectovora</i> and only eat insects, grubs, worms and not plants. They have small eyes and no visible ears. They have broad front feet for digging and a short tail. Moles are greyish-brown or black and are about ten to fifteen centimetres in length. <br />
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They like to live in soft soil and spend all day searching for food. Moles eat up to three times their body weight in worms a day. You know you have fertile soil when you have molehills - great fertility indicator. Moles aerate the ground and rainwater collects in the channels that they dig in the rainy season.<br />
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All in all, moles are given bad press but these sweet little creatures are actually useful in the organic garden.jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-83705459428746878552012-07-01T15:17:00.002+02:002012-07-26T18:43:36.665+02:00Green Finger Tips - Cape Gooseberry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ngLf8MUr_-M/T_BDsnHGYRI/AAAAAAAABJ4/SsYbosk00io/s1600/gooseberry%2Bthyme%2Bcarrot%2Brocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ngLf8MUr_-M/T_BDsnHGYRI/AAAAAAAABJ4/SsYbosk00io/s320/gooseberry%2Bthyme%2Bcarrot%2Brocket.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Cape Gooseberry or Physalis peruviana is a hardy plant which produces amazing orange berries. The plant is propagated by seed. In this picture the plant is about a month old. It came up between the thyme, a carrot and the rocket plants. I transplanted it into the new section of my garden.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYZgXM39X4Y/UBFuE5atWkI/AAAAAAAABb0/2QT-upxjk9g/s1600/gooseberry%2Bflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYZgXM39X4Y/UBFuE5atWkI/AAAAAAAABb0/2QT-upxjk9g/s320/gooseberry%2Bflower.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The gooseberry flower develops into a papery pod which protects the tart yellow-orange fruit.<br />
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Health benefits of Cape Gooseberry<br />
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The Cape Gooseberry is a tonic plant. It helps control diabetes and cleanses the blood. These delicious fruit can help with the treatment of the prostate gland. It is a useful digestive. Vitamins found in the Cape Gooseberry include Vitamin A, Calcium and Phosphorus.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SlgCRxLcfFM/T_BF_gB0gaI/AAAAAAAABKE/HdzaObDLfSg/s1600/Cape%2BGooseberry%2Bpods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SlgCRxLcfFM/T_BF_gB0gaI/AAAAAAAABKE/HdzaObDLfSg/s320/Cape%2BGooseberry%2Bpods.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Processing and eating Cape Gooseberries<br />
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Cape gooseberries are best eaten fresh off the bush, peeled out of their delicate husks. Fresh gooseberries in garden salad is an interesting taste sensation. A bowl served with a dollop of fresh whipped cream is a delicious dessert. Gooseberries can be preserved in jams and jellies. <br />
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<iframe src='http://embed.verite.co/timeline/?source=0Aoes6YC-w2KsdHVGOEUweU1LNndjc0xQcGtreVZ3LVE&font=Bevan-PotanoSans&maptype=toner&lang=en&width=900&height=650' width='570' height='800' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
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Thanks to the guys from <a href="http://www.cheapconservatories.net">Cheap Conservatories</a> for the timeline!<br />
jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-88682326840232449002012-06-15T12:41:00.000+02:002012-06-15T13:04:18.916+02:00Amazing Moth<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KtdgCwYQ14/T9sSLIBnFFI/AAAAAAAABJA/AS4ZQE6NxIk/s1600/amazing%2Bmoth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1KtdgCwYQ14/T9sSLIBnFFI/AAAAAAAABJA/AS4ZQE6NxIk/s320/amazing%2Bmoth.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This amazing moth appeared on the wall in my home.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q96GifRFWFE/T9sRA2LifGI/AAAAAAAABI0/wrej2AWv1bM/s1600/amazing%2Bmoth%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q96GifRFWFE/T9sRA2LifGI/AAAAAAAABI0/wrej2AWv1bM/s320/amazing%2Bmoth%2B1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I knocked it off by accident and it sat next to me all morning while i drew. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-drGhdZKF6Ls/T9sSrq0OUvI/AAAAAAAABJM/tntFb-2WpoU/s1600/amazing%2Bmoth%2Boutside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-drGhdZKF6Ls/T9sSrq0OUvI/AAAAAAAABJM/tntFb-2WpoU/s320/amazing%2Bmoth%2Boutside.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I decided to take the moth outside. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WOfnZhsZ4MA/T9sUDiLKm5I/AAAAAAAABJY/Oc0NGEl2aFA/s1600/caterpillar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WOfnZhsZ4MA/T9sUDiLKm5I/AAAAAAAABJY/Oc0NGEl2aFA/s320/caterpillar.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">I was rewarded by spotting this hairy caterpillar.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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I was pulling up the grasses that were creeping under the barrier of stones and logs. I turned the log over and Wow!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h4_goCNeEvc/T8CIeZD5gWI/AAAAAAAABHY/g-JddLJuUq8/s1600/millipede%2Band%2Bsnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h4_goCNeEvc/T8CIeZD5gWI/AAAAAAAABHY/g-JddLJuUq8/s320/millipede%2Band%2Bsnail.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Under the log I first saw this millipede and a little yellow snail next to it,<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KFZ3b_Z3g2E/T8CJHM5OToI/AAAAAAAABHk/wfBLcAGgBmY/s1600/centipede.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KFZ3b_Z3g2E/T8CJHM5OToI/AAAAAAAABHk/wfBLcAGgBmY/s320/centipede.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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and a centidpede.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w-5Nxp_q3sU/T8CKj8Vf4SI/AAAAAAAABII/EWAQP14QjNM/s1600/green%2Bworm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w-5Nxp_q3sU/T8CKj8Vf4SI/AAAAAAAABII/EWAQP14QjNM/s320/green%2Bworm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then I saw a variety of slugs and a green worm.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CItfCtJCK8g/T8CLHnpFTCI/AAAAAAAABIU/aw8JdUGSCi0/s1600/shovel%2Bheaded%2Bgarden%2Bsnake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CItfCtJCK8g/T8CLHnpFTCI/AAAAAAAABIU/aw8JdUGSCi0/s320/shovel%2Bheaded%2Bgarden%2Bsnake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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To my absolute amazement, I came across these snake-like creatures. In all the years I have been gardening, I had never seen anything quite like these chaps. These amazing creatures are know as <a href="http://australianmuseum.net.au/Shovel-headed-Garden-Worm" target="_blank">Shovel Headed Garden Worms</a><br />
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They are known botanically as <i>Bipalium kewense</i> and they eat earthworms and other insects, which explains the centipede corpses that were on the under surface of the log. <br />
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When you start to understand the relationships between insects in your companion planting organic garden, you will see how nature creates a balance between all creatures. Learning to use this balance in your organic garden and using companion planting to assist with natural pest control, you will bring great abundance to your kitchen.<br />
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Nature continuously suprises and astounds me and of course keeps me searching for more. <br />
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<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-48224483892984848972012-05-02T00:18:00.001+02:002012-05-02T01:43:12.799+02:00Green Finger Tips - CaterpillarsCaterpillar damage<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0h5nZXCHsIU/T6Bf5zOTwyI/AAAAAAAABGk/H4uQpOWs-rw/s1600/catterpillar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0h5nZXCHsIU/T6Bf5zOTwyI/AAAAAAAABGk/H4uQpOWs-rw/s320/catterpillar.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Caterpillars can be a menace by devouring your plants. They are however the moths and butterflies of the future. So a little tolerance can be great for your organic garden. Mostly if you have a bad infestation of caterpillars, you can hand pick and squish them. <br />
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Natural predators of caterpillars<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s7PEYybCOAU/T6Bg-G5q_CI/AAAAAAAABGw/6ymBf8q8_Jg/s1600/catterpillar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s7PEYybCOAU/T6Bg-G5q_CI/AAAAAAAABGw/6ymBf8q8_Jg/s320/catterpillar.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Caterpillars have natural predators that will keep them under control in the companion planted garden. Some wasps sedate caterpillars to use to feed their young. Katydids, stinkbugs and spiders feast on caterpillars. Birds, chameleons, rats and frogs enjoy caterpillars as a treat. Humans find certain species to be a delicacy. Be sure to encourage natural caterpillar predators in your organic garden.<br />
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Caterpillar stings<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--aVxPDCH6-Q/T6Bjg28e1sI/AAAAAAAABHI/CTFROGpAiKg/s1600/hairy%2Bcaterpillar%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--aVxPDCH6-Q/T6Bjg28e1sI/AAAAAAAABHI/CTFROGpAiKg/s320/hairy%2Bcaterpillar%2B5.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The variety and incredible patterns on caterpillars are a constant source of amazement. Some caterpillars can shoot poisonous stings which can be rather irritating to the skin. So people are affected more than others by these stings. Most varieties of caterpillars are harmless to humans. <br />
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Identifying Caterpillars<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjE4mTWTQhk/T6BiUApqmlI/AAAAAAAABG8/6SslzWPJxek/s1600/catterpillar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjE4mTWTQhk/T6BiUApqmlI/AAAAAAAABG8/6SslzWPJxek/s320/catterpillar.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Can anyone help me identify the caterpillars that have been in my garden over the season. It would be great to know what butterflies they turn into. Butterflies are essential, like bees, for fertilising plants. Be grateful for your caterpillars and know that there are loads of ways to control them naturally.jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-10691926687252647622012-04-07T10:41:00.017+02:002012-07-02T23:28:09.806+02:00Green Finger Tips - Snails n Slugs<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YlFOSllkFrk/T3_-J7sshdI/AAAAAAAABFY/qpXBGeG_aJU/s1600/snail%2Bshell.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YlFOSllkFrk/T3_-J7sshdI/AAAAAAAABFY/qpXBGeG_aJU/s320/snail%2Bshell.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728576697635997138" /></a><br />
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Snails n Slugs in the garden<br />
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Snails n Slugs are regarded by most gardeners as a pest. They belong to the Mollusc family.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-93fls637vU0/T4AI3uX1OeI/AAAAAAAABGI/gukoEVPYLFg/s1600/slug.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-93fls637vU0/T4AI3uX1OeI/AAAAAAAABGI/gukoEVPYLFg/s320/slug.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728588479449086434" /></a><br />
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Snails n slugs are eaten by frogs, ducks and chickens and a variety of other insects. Encourage frogs and other snail n slug eating creatures, including ground beetles, centipedes and wild birds, to your garden to help control them.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd0tItHsZb4/T4ADy2viJqI/AAAAAAAABFw/w00L5viBCBw/s1600/collecting%2Bsnails.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sd0tItHsZb4/T4ADy2viJqI/AAAAAAAABFw/w00L5viBCBw/s320/collecting%2Bsnails.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728582898238498466" /></a><br />
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Hand picking Snails<br />
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You can collect up the snails and give them to friends who have ducks or chickens. They will be only too happy for the extra nutrition.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5olENIUZpy8/T3__ZC2Nw7I/AAAAAAAABFk/BynGN5BP9lE/s1600/bean%2Bskeleton%2Bwith%2Bnasturtium.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5olENIUZpy8/T3__ZC2Nw7I/AAAAAAAABFk/BynGN5BP9lE/s320/bean%2Bskeleton%2Bwith%2Bnasturtium.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728578056764638130" /></a><br />
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Snail n slug destruction<br />
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Snails n slugs can be extremely destructive for plants in your organic garden. In the picture above you can see how they have turned the bean leaf into a skeleton. Amazingly though, the beans were undamaged. <br />
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Other Snail n Slug remedies<br />
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Besides natural predators and domestic ones, a variety of methods can be used to deter snails n slugs. Eggshells are reputed to cut their underbellies. Any sharp mulch like crushed nut husks, coffee grounds, hair and sawdust are meant to repel them. Plants recommended to keep snails n slugs away include basil, beans (haha), corn, chard, fennel, grapes, ginger, parsley, pumpkins, rhubarb and sage. A bowl of beer is also said to attract them and they drown in the beer. Alternatively, pouring salt on them dehydrates them.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b7n1sk3UR_8/T4AK5bFbcRI/AAAAAAAABGU/gWAzoRcctBk/s1600/snail%2Bturned.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b7n1sk3UR_8/T4AK5bFbcRI/AAAAAAAABGU/gWAzoRcctBk/s320/snail%2Bturned.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728590707654619410" /></a><br />
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Eating Snails<br />
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Snails are considered a gastronomical delicacy by some. If you have the stomach for it, you can collect your snails, keep them in a flour for a week till their stomachs are cleansed and cook them and serve with garlic butter. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IzO__WzdHJE/T4AHupkH1bI/AAAAAAAABF8/eshdBd7iQ7A/s1600/snails%2Bfeasting.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IzO__WzdHJE/T4AHupkH1bI/AAAAAAAABF8/eshdBd7iQ7A/s320/snails%2Bfeasting.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728587224028009906" /></a><br />
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Making peace with Snails n Slugs<br />
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I tend to admire these slow moving creatures, and allow them space in the garden to do their job. Natural predators will abound when snails n slugs are near, keeping the balance in the garden. If they do get out of hand, I handpick them and send them to a better place.<br />jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-46204974238477476072012-04-07T09:19:00.006+02:002012-04-07T10:26:58.571+02:00Green Finger Tips - DIY Compost TumblerHere is a brilliant idea for composting.<br />Follow the link<br /><a href="http://www.permaculture.co.uk/readers-solutions/diy-compost-tumbler">DIY Compost Tumbler</a><br />to find details of this DIY composting solutionjeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3093688663463971714.post-49222074617374829302012-03-17T12:47:00.013+02:002012-04-07T08:53:58.997+02:00green fingers tips - rocket or arugula<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJO15m3Qecc/T2RtNLaX6iI/AAAAAAAABEw/YqoKJIQBZ1Q/s1600/thyme%2Brocket%2Bcarrot.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJO15m3Qecc/T2RtNLaX6iI/AAAAAAAABEw/YqoKJIQBZ1Q/s320/thyme%2Brocket%2Bcarrot.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720817499836508706" /></a><br /><br />Get rocket growing<br /><br />Rocket or arugula is commonly grown in organic gardens. <br />Rocket's botanical name is Eruca sativa.<br />Here the seedlings have just germinated next to thyme and carrot. <br />They are about 2 days old. Rocket grows quickly and in a matter of days the plants are recognizable.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J8NX_tjgY8o/T2Rulsw5k0I/AAAAAAAABE8/_O2Mwx-mNj8/s1600/rocket%2B18%2Bdays%2Blater.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J8NX_tjgY8o/T2Rulsw5k0I/AAAAAAAABE8/_O2Mwx-mNj8/s320/rocket%2B18%2Bdays%2Blater.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720819020617847618" /></a><br /><br />Eighteen days later the young rocket leaves are showing their true form. <br />Rocket grows happily in the organic vegetable garden. You can use it in salads and sauces. Arugula has a strong peppery taste. Rocket salad with sun dried tomatoes and halumi or Mozarella cheese with a mild chilli dressing is delicious. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o42zdZu6wAY/T3_iI3qK6zI/AAAAAAAABFM/o9HMwwjATBo/s1600/first%2Brocket%2Bflower.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o42zdZu6wAY/T3_iI3qK6zI/AAAAAAAABFM/o9HMwwjATBo/s320/first%2Brocket%2Bflower.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728545893046217522" /></a><br /><br />In March the first rocket flowers made their appearance. The plants are still growing strong. Still waiting for them to make their beautiful pods. Rocket was traditionally used as a love potion, a stimulant and for clearing the stomach. Rocket contains Vitamin C and Potassium.jeannine davidoffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07656072677530467093noreply@blogger.com0