General

Does Life is a Garden sell anything?

What is the best growing medium to add to my vegetable garden?

How does Compost increase the microbial activity of soil?

Can you add weeds to a compost heap?

We planted plumbago for our hedge. Been more than three years now. It is bushy, but not growing tall as fast as we wanted. It's in a sunny spot, and I fertilize, water and trim. Why?

How much fertilizer should be given to a potted plant?

I have a small garden, can I still have a compost heap?

Is 3:2:1 fertilizer harmful to dogs and if it is what other products can be used?

Hi, wondered if u could help me with perhaps a list of brightly coloured flowering, spreading plants that I can plant between my boundary wall and the road. I have a corner plot and I need ground cover to cover the sandy area there, from the wall to the pavement edge is bout 3 metres and bout 5 or 6 metros from side to side +\-. Cape Flats Cape Town. Your assistance will be much appreciated, Thank You

I'm laying rubber paving mats with 3x3cm holes in a very shady area in summer and sun in winter, it a seating/ braai area and the mats will be walked on.I want to plant a cover to grow between the gaps but not take over the soil below is disgusting. What do u suggest or should I keep to filling the gaps with small pebbles

Please could you let me know what seeds I could be planting this time of the year (October/November)? I would like to have some flowers in my garden through out the year. Something that I would be able to pick and have in a vase in my house, as well as just the most amazing colours in the garden.

I would like to know which herbs and vegetables can I grow for autumn and winter in the Western Cape, and when I can start planting.

I need some ideas on what plants and trees to plant at my swimming pool to give it a more tropical look?

I am moving to the south coast of the Western Cape and would like to plant a deciduous shrub to give shade over the Braai area. Flowering shrubs are welcome, but no fruit baring shrubs. The area is full-sun, near the sea and windy.

What proteas are in bloom in April? (in terms of flowers for a wedding)

I am looking for some indigenous plants that I can use indoors.... they will not get any natural lighting as the room is completely land locked..... it will only receive fluorescent lighting for about 9hrs a day. Indigenous is best, but if there aren't any then exotics could work as well.

Im living out in the Muizenberg area. I find the ground to be very dry and my lawn looks as if the sun is burning it . Please advise to how I can make the lawn grow green and what type of plants can I plant in my area?

We have 3 conifer trees with a Gardenia planted between then. (Conifer, Gardenia, Conifer, Gardenia, Conifer!!) in a front south facing bed at our front door. The Gardenias are about chest height and are being smothered by the Conifers. We would like to move them to a semi shady spot. When and how can we do this?

Should a compost heap be in sun or shade?

Please would you advise me - I need to plant an evergreen shrub to screen off the next door property if possible, a quick grower and indigenous a possibility. I look down onto the compost heap and staff quarters of the adjacent property as we are on a fairly steep hill. We do have a view so would not like to block it out - eg wild strelitzia Nikolai too tall.

I will be moving home in September and would like to take some of my favourite plants with me. Have you any tips?

I have bought a lot of perennial seeds (agapanthus, diascia, gaura, osteospermum, blue sage, white fairy primrose, gazania & delphinium) and was wondering if it is still too early to start planting the seeds?

I started a subtrobical garden in my small garden then I developed a back problem. Now I want more flowering shrubs and annuals. Can you please give me some tips?

Do you have a checklist of tools that I will need to invest in to successfully have a kitchen garden in Gauteng?

Where do cherries grow in KZN?

How well do azaleas do in Gauteng?

I really like plants and flowers and want to start our garden, but I don't know where to start and what to plant? I like colourful flowers and green plants. The beddings is already there, I just need to prepare the soil and start planting?

I have privet hedges along the driveway between us and the neighbours that are almost bare at the bottom but fairly full on the top. Is it possible to grow Mandevilla vines in between the bare branches at the bottom and will they automatically attach themselves and creep through the privets? If this climber is not suitable, could you possible suggest another one? Would really appreciate your assistance with this as i cannot afford to put a wall up between us and the neighbours.

We are staying next to a river and it is getting cold in the winter and very hot in summer. I've planted L M lawn under the trees but it dies every time. Want to plant lawn seed. Bought canada lawn seed. The packet says for cold and shaded areas. will it work?

I live in Pretoria and am starting a new vegetable garden. My soil has different textures. Some part has sand and some parts has stones. I have used the organic compost to cure the soil. I would like to know how much time do I have to leave the soil mixed with compost before I start planting?

What can I plant in a shady area that can form a nice tall privacy screen. I stay in Richards Bay. I was thinking about Gardenias but not sure if they will do well in shade.

I am an amateur landscaper, I love the garden and have been gardening since a kid. I've just moved to lichtenburg from jhb. It's so so dry here! Anyway, I've got some landscaping jobs, what plants are water wise but grow lots of colourful flowers, and can be hedged, not so tall about max 40-50 cm?

I am going to plant my orchid on a tree, will this method work in Johannesburg?

We have a narrow wide garden along the house- 16m wide and 5deep.The house is North East East facing a long wall which is obviously the opposite. The wall is precast panels, about 7 panels high. What I want to know is: What could I grow against the house? What could I grow up the wall to the side that is South East facing? What could I grow up the long wall facing the house which obviously has morning shade afternoon sun? Could we grow espalier pears, granadilla? We live in heidelberg in Gauteng.

We live in Muizenberg so the salty, sea air is a big factor in choosing plants that can survive and prosper. What are some varieties we can look at?

What seed can be plant to give colour to our office garden, in Eastern Cape. space is 20mx50m.

I'm looking for n ever green climber to cover my palisades. It is in the sun most of the day and can be cold in the winter. I'm living in Lydenburg. Will a Lady Banks Rose (Rosa banksiae) do the trick or a jasmine?

Which flowers can I plant that will attract bees to my garden?

I want to plant veggies (cabbage, carrots, onion, beetroot, spinach, tomato, peppers (green,red and yellow), as well as beans). I already have the place where I can plant but I don't know where or when to start and I don’t even know what to put on the soil to enrich it. Please help.

I live in Pretoria. My naartjie tree which is now two years old had lots of blossoms and last week they all fell off but there is no fruit. Do you perhaps know why?

Love flowers for my grandchildren as well. Always just plant petunias in summer and pansies. Lots of pots around pool and patio areas. Plse can you advise what other flowering plants to grow?

I would like some advice on growing bamboo indoors as a room divider.

I would like to have a magical garden with tranquility and where people can relax. I want the garden to have edible plants, scented plants, purifying plants, can you give me a list of plants to buy, please!

We live on a farm and I am starting to take care of the garden. The grass is green and coming along but I have so many weeds throughout the lawn that I don't see the light. Is there an easier way than taking out one at a time?? Please help.

I want to lure birds to my garden. Which type of trees can I plant?

I have trouble growing back my lawn and I think it is now time to revert to natural indigenous plants instead of temperamental grass that take too much time and resources to upkeep. The problem is, I still want to have all the perks of a lawn - it being low growing, taking traffic and pet friendly. Can you give me any ideas of what to replace my lawn with? It should ideally also take full sun and not a lot of water and feeding (sounds like I'm expecting way too much here). I asked around and somebody suggested natural grasses, but those tend to seed themselves quite vigorously and they do grow tall? Also looking for the best Water Wise ground cover in Pretoria?

I have small apple trees growing in my garden from seeds that I threw away. Can they survive the Gauteng weather (Pretoria) and bear any fruits?

I am a pensioner in Centurion looking after communal gardens in a complex… Need something easy to sow once, in patches around established garden and have a burst of colour from sept to march (???) or longer. Sun and shade and not too thirsty.

Please advise a list of herbs that would flourish in a shaded area.

Please advise what is the best month to plant Marigold seeds

I recently bought some proteas down in the Cape and had a small oopsie on the way back to KZN. What happened was the tops of the plants got FRIED from the heat under the torno cover of the bakkie. Can we just chop off all the brown steam and leaves or should we just keep on watering them and let them sort themselves out?

We live in Randfontein. Which fruit or nut trees would work in the area?

My friend has purchased a property in Pearly Beach and wants to establish a garden to include as many self-sustainable plants ie: vegetable garden etc. Help with the choice of fruit trees would be very much appreciated. Obviously the olive family will do, but what other trees can he consider?

How water wise is a loquat tree? Is it a light of heavy "drinker"?

Is Angelonia Serena part of the 'tea' family?

Angelonia Serena is very pretty - is it a shrub?

Portulaca vignettes are heat resistant, do they grow well in between rocky parts?

I hope you can help with information.  I live on a smallholding and am recovering from tick bite fever.  After doing a bit of research, I've twigged on to Rose Geranium Oil as a natural tick repellent. I was wondering, would planting the actual plant also have some benefit against ticks?

Hi, I'm moving this weekend and want to lift my plants to start garden again. Can I lift my plants now and replant immediately? We had rain today? Free State

Hi,I often read that certain veg.must be planted early spring,but when you go to local nurseries you see them sold now in June (seedlings). Can I plant cucumber, coriander,squash now. KZN

Is it possible to grow a semi tropical food forest in Pretoria? With the extreme temperature and no rain in winter can you still do it by providing sufficient water during winter times and protecting plants from the cold by maybe having a big tree canopy in place or any other way? I want to use local plants and trees but try and have the garden always green not just in the summer.

I have a large, sunny concrete area in a complex which I would like to develop into a succulent garden. Materials used would be gravel, stones, rocks, a log or two and succulents in various sizes and heights of pots. I wish to create an area covered by "plastic grass" to soften the effect. 
Can this work? KZN

Well decomposed compost - Can I add the compost you get in the bag. Will that help. KZN

I've just bought my first piece of land its quite big and I'm aiming to start my own garden and orchard. I'm wondering if you have any information on which fruits, herbs, and veggies to plant when. I'm in KwaZulu Natal Eshowe region.
Please send me any information that you have on starting gardening in South Africa. 

I live in Edgemead (Western Cape) and have a huge problem with weeds.
I would like to know if your team can advise me on whether or not the below product is the best way to kill creeping sorrel weeds and ground cover. 
I want something I can put over my lawn but will not damage the lawn.
 Lawntyl 500SC was recommended, I would like to try but not lose my Kukui grass in the process?
 Any assistance would be appreciated as we would like to retain a luscious lawn but weed free.

How to improve a garden lawn in Johannesburg?

I am a keen gardener,but struggling with my irises. Feeding them culterra "fruit and flower" and nitrosol... Not flowering. Gauteng

I just want to know a bamboo palm is it a indoor plant? North West

Good day, my husband is a keen gardener, we have a small garden, live in Kathu, Ncape & experience black frost on & off during winter months. Please advise on plants & shrubs surviving -4 to-5 degrees during nights as we lose the most beautiful plants approximately every 2nd winter. Most of our plants are frost hardy, but black frost poses a serious problem. He becomes very disheartened. We need a green leafy plant for large square pot standing under a lapa & a long stemmed bushy plant with round/pompon top for verandah /pergola covered with white transparent roofing leading out of the lounge. Also other shrubs & smaller plants for flower beds. Cycads seem to do quite well here as well as ferns, pony tails, lavender, rosemary, thatching bamboo-type grass.

I'm quite new to all of this and would like to make a small terrarium in a glass jar for my room. What soil would be best? I have read up about different ways to make the terrarium but would like to know of any South African and or recommend soil brands regarding succulents. Gauteng

I am finding it hard to garden in 2 particular areas of my garden:
1)  The south facing wall on my property- that has full shade in winter and morning sun in summer (and sometimes even full sun in Summer)
 2)  West facing wall that has full shade in winter and afternoon sun in summer and some areas have only a couple of hours of hot afternoon sun all year round……
Please can you advise what is best to plant in these areas, I prefer indigenous, fast and tall growing plants (but will try anything), plants that will thrive in sun or shade……
Your help would be much appreciated.
 Plumstead (Western Cape)

I am currently doing a garden in Ezulwini, Swaziland. The previous owners of the property wanted to extend the grounds by adding rubble and soil to their plot. Unfortunately the soil they dumped was all sub soil (bare, red, clayish and devoid of any growth even after 9 months). The property drops into a vlei on the one side, and there is a steep bank (about 4 or 5 metres high) of purely red Swazi sub-soil. I want to plant/terrace/cover this area before the rains come later this year. Please suggest what to plant! The area is mostly shady and the only things growing are bugweed, wild ginger and lantana. I would like to hold and nourish the soil, beautify the slope and avoid planting anything that will run into the vlei and invade


Which herbicide is good for weeds on lawn? Free State

I’m located on a small holding in Vereeniging and looking to create a borderline with some large trees. We currently have quite a lot of pine trees filling the spaces but a few have fallen and have been struck by lightning over the years. These have been planted by my grandparents over 70 years ago, but now I am trying to restore the area.
I was looking for information on getting pine trees growing e.g., best time of year to plant, size of the holes, and general information regarding, or even if I should look towards another type of large tree

What variety olive will grow best in the South Western Free State?

When can I plant lawn. I am starting a garden and need to know when to plant the lawn and what to plant now. It is a very small garden. Gauteng

When is the best time to plant iceberg roses? Limpopo

What can I grow (veg and flowers) in kind of sea sand type ground in Maitland Cape Town?

I am busy renovating a wonderful old Cape cottage which is surrounded by vineyard, English oak trees and in the part of the garden where I want to plant 3 small trees ( less than either 3 metres  or less than 4 metres .) there is a large plane tree.
I want to plant 3 identical small trees either in front of  the low werf wall you see in the pics ( wall about 850mm high)where I need 2-3 metre trees. They will be spaced equally along the length of the wall.
or
behind the werf wall where a car is parked( here the ground level is much lower and the wall is maximum 2 metres height where I would need 3- 3.5 metre trees. ( Spaced equally along the length of the wall ) or a 3 metre hedge behind the werf wall  ( Viburnum Sinensis?)
The reason for planting is to block out some neighbours houses AND  to give my neighbour a bit of privacy when someone is in this garden.  ( unless I plant a hedhge , they will never get complete privacy ...and that would be a shame to hide the werf wall .
I am reluctant  introduce a Cape town non-farmy tree, or something completely different to what is around,( I want to keep it all low-key) so my thoughts are :
Lemon ...Meyer or Eureka ( at least it produces edible fruit )and I like its lightness Lime Pomegranate ( looks a bit dense ?) Calamondin Olive ( too large?) Bladdernut Dombeya Rotundifolia ( but actually no good as they are deciduous ?) Buddleja Saligna Tree Wisteria ?
Which would tolerate a bit of South Easter wind and a shade in summer from the Plane Tree (only the left hand one of the three would get shade ) The 
low side of the werf wall faces North West.

I would like to get married in May and my colours are shades of purple and mint green so would it be possible to send a list of the flowers in those colours that bloom that time of year.

Goodday, I am in Swaziland and would like to know when is the best time to put manure on my garden? (organic)

I live in Mpumalanga and I would like to know which vegetables and herbs can I plant this time of the year?

I have a small garden and would like to plant one peach tree - which one will bear the most with the least problems? Thank you. (Gauteng)

I've moved from a big garden to a small garden, from Kwazulu Natal to the Western Cape, I really need help to make a beautiful garden, do not know what grows because of the small garden and climate, windy.

Have you heard of GingerGreen - a type of lawn that grows anywhere shade sun poor soil etc - sounds too good to be true! Western Cape

My garden is mostly loose soil no nutrition or what so ever. I have zero knowledge about plants and love them. I have roses for a bargain palm trees. What fertiliser can I use to feed the soil for please? Eastern Cape

I am staying around Mokopane at least 34km from this town and would like to know what types of veggies and whether to plant in "plantjies" or use packeted seeds in backyard garden at this time. It's a new erf on years ago left unused plot. Limpopo

Want to prepare a flowerbed that has been standing empty for 2-3 years, what do I use to work into the ground for summer flowers. half shade, half sun bed. Gauteng

At last summer, my grass developed dead/white patches (something like boiled water was poured over grass). What can I do to keep it healthy and never to have those dead patches again? Gauteng

Can i use pinewood mulch for my aloe/fatplant garden because of the acidity of pinewood trees? KZN

I life in Waterfall KZN & have a large garden that is +- 60% grass & as my wife & I are now retired we are looking to change the garden to low or no maintenance. To this end the grass must or be minimised so we are thinking ground cover. which raises the following question that I hope you will have answers for.
 Can groundcover seed be spread over the existing lawns to take over the grass OR does the old grass have to be removed in order to spread a ground? Either method could you please suggest a suitable fast growing groundcover?


Any tips for gardeners planting the seeds of Ericas, pincushions and proteas in Limpopo? What kind of soil and weather conditions are best?

Good day, I have built a raised bed around a large tree in my front garden. please give me suggestions for plants which I could plant in the bed as well as in containers under this tree for spring/summer. Gauteng

What type of grass seeds to buy for a shady area? Free State

A suitable fast growing tree to give us privacy from traffic passing our house. House is approximately 80m from road with lot of traffic. Free State

When is the best time to transplant Celtis africana? Northern Cape

Do you have any ideas on a indigenous flowering potted plant that can be propagated from seed or cutting that will flower in September/October? Western Cape

We are in Plett and the area on our property is on north sloping ground with a fair amount of sun. I have an aloe thriving there so am keen to add a few more aloes and some proteas but know nothing about selecting one which is beautiful long flowering and not tall, say maximum one meter. Your assistance will be most appreciated. Western Cape

How to attract wild birds to my garden? Northern Cape

I would like to know if it worth the effort of growing litchis , mangos and cherries in Johannesburg. In the summer I have seen a few mango trees with fruit. If so where can I get the Mauritius, Salathial litchi and Long green, Joa mango in Gauteng. Will cherries crop in our area?

Are all salvia perennial? Gauteng

I have a very large tiled balcony patio. Please send some ideas of potted plants that would provide some screening as well. I was thinking of some bamboo in planters? Many thanks in advance. Gauteng

I run a creche and would like to start a veg garden in the front yard. Where do I start? Gauteng

Will a Protea grow in a pot? KZN

I am busy putting together an urban veggie garden. I would like to plant grasses that will benefit the birds in some way. Produce seed maybe. I do have a bee hive and have planted for them but I would like to accommodate the birds into the planting as well. I do feed and have a big bird population. About 7 - 10 different species at the moment. Gauteng

Ideas for a small garden in a complex. Gauteng

Please advise what months are best for planting these vegetables; this is in accordance with availability. I have scheduled as follows but would like any advice on changes if required:
Sept/Oct: Parsley, spring onion, leeks, celery, coriander
Nov/Dec: Basil, brinjal, sweet peppers (capsicum), cayenne chillies.

I stay in Laezonia and my soil is a loose sandy soil with abundant quartz stones. Flowers do not grow , they wither and die. Kindly advise which plants or flowers can withstand this soil type as I would like to plant flowers and have a beautiful garden. Gauteng

Can I plant petunias in Secunda in August? Its still cold at night and mornings? Mpumalanga

I have ivy growing in my garden. My manager wants to grow ivy at my workplace. Can I cut a piece of our ivy in the garden and plant it at work to grow? Gauteng

Can pincushions be planted here in Gauteng?

Please could you suggest a good plant with dark green waxy leaves to use as a small hedge? I live in Pietermaritzburg, KZN and will be planting a low hedge against the front wall of my house. Gets mostly afternoon sun.

What is the main reason if you planted seeds of green peas the same day but they germinate at different times?

Is rooikrans trees a invasive species? Western Cape

What type of plants can i put into my garden? We live in Piet Retief in Mpumalanga and have a little river that runs opposite our property which makes our area very cold at times,and it is also a area that has black frost in winter.

I considered planting Proteas in the Heidelberg Gauteng area. It’s windy and very cold during winters.
 Do you have any recommendations Please?

We have a very small garden with a mophead tree (which we cannot cut down because it is our only welcome shade in the summer). We are battling to grow grass under the tree, but also have grass which has sun all day. What would be the best...shade grass all over or any other specific grass? Gauteng

I would like to grow an amaryllis in a vase with water. How do I do this please? Western Cape

Can you tell me if I can grow a lemon tree in a small garden? I live in Welkom in the free state. I don't want it to grow to big. When can I plant a lemon tree and what will be best for my small garden and can I grow a lemon tree in a large pot or just a small pot. I stay in a complex I would like to grow a lemon tree in a container so if we ever move I can take it with me. I would like to buy one the 1st September at the nursery must I buy a big pot and what compost and pest control for a lemon tree?

What & when should I feed camellias? Mine are well established camellia japonicas, in flower at the moment but the leaves are looking slightly yellow.

We just got a 4 Hectare piece of Land in Gouna, in land from Knysna and would like to get a list of fruit and nut trees that we can grow in this area. Please assist if possible.

Can you suggest indigenous plants and/or ground covers suitable for irrigating with 'grey' water to plant in our area? Limpopo

Can a pomegranate be pruned and when? Northern Cape

My very steep garden was washed away in the last flood (July). I need plants to stop the erosion. Its all ending up ln my pool. Need to know what I can use. Before the flood it was covered with Buffalo grass but now that's all gone. The roots of the trees are all exposed so I'd say I've lost most of my top soil. The area has mottled shade. Would really appreciate some suggestions. KZN

Please can you tell me when is a good time of the year to transplant an aloe ferrox. It is in the ground at the poolside but is under shade of trees so it is not doing too well with droopy leaves and has constant insect infestations. I would like to move it to a sunnier spot. It is around 1.2m high.
 Gauteng

Please will you advise whether the Viburnum Sinensis will be suitable for a hedge for privacy and will be able to withstand the hot and windy conditions of the northern suburbs of Cape Town?

I have made a vegetable patch which is about approx. 10m wide by 2m and about 1m deep.  I want to use it to plant and grow good quality vegetables and herbs. Please advise what should I fill the patch with, what type of soil and other other stuff which I need to fill it with before I start planting

I am a 'new' gardener and planted lots of roses which I believe will be 'ready' in Feb.
 Any advice on WHITE bulbs/ flowers I can plant now to bloom in Dec?
 Western Cape

It would be appreciated if you could give us the names of a few ground covers that will grow in reasonably full shade. We live west of Johannesburg.


I love the Garden so I want to know what type of flowers I can plant in my province out side and inside? Limpopo

We have a very large amount of exotic Port Jacksons growing on our farm. We want to remove them but the soil is beach sand & very poor, as we the farm is close to the ocean. What indigenous trees & shrubs can we plant in that poor soil which will also help prevent soil erosion. Eastern Cape

We need an expert's advice in our office, to maintain our current plants and also to advise us on the right plants to keep. At the moment we have Chrysalidosarpus (6 of them) but we don’t know if it is the right plant for our Lowveld weather or for the plants to be inside the office.
 Our office space is big (6mx15m) 
It has light through out the day, and at night it is dark and all doors are closed and locked
. We actually just need plants that will go well with our display are but that could also adapt to the weather, or just someone that can advise us on how to take better care of the current plants and how much water they need daily as well as what soil is best for them. Mpumalanga

What's the best time of year to plant French/Mexican marigolds (Tagetes) in PE? Eastern Cape

Which flowers to plant now for summer season in Potchefstroom? North West

I am planning to can plant at least six trees on the 10th September with my grand kids of 6-13yrs old, what types of trees can I plant, I am in Mokopane (new erf with cottage as my house). Limpopo

Kan jy vygies met n stiggie plant? Gauteng

Is there a more common name for Marigold flower, or how does it look? North West

I live in Komatipoort where we have no frost.  However it does get up to the mid forties in summer. My garden is very shady and I have lots of space to plant begonias. Is it too hot here for them? I experience problems growing the wild rhubarb plant as it is too hot for it to thrive in this climate. I do have enough water for the plants and it is fairly humid here.  Please let me know what your thoughts are. Mpumalanga

I have a massive field next to my property. Have extensive damage done by moles that i do not have lawn any more just sand patches. Have tried everything but nothing helps. still want a lawn and flower beddings. My flower beds barely survive. Have a fairly big plot. 
Any Ideas what to do. I like flowers and greenery and don't want to put down concrete slabs. Western Cape

A couple months ago I planted pea seeds straight in soil- receiving sun,water but no germination up to now - planted end of winter. KZN
Perhaps the seeds were planted too deep, or the soil was too wet. They like sun and plant in well drained compost enriched soil.

Is it true that if you plant them close together the colour bleeds and they all become white???? also how many colours and where can we get them????? (Zantedeschia Hybrids)

I live in a complex and have a tiny garden. The problem though is because of the tall building in front of me, my garden is in constant shade. i have been struggling to grow grass even. i have a few groundcover plants that have survived but my beds are depressingly bare and lifeless. how can i add some cheer to my forever shady garden? Are there shade loving beautiful flowers? the only thing thats flourishing is a little lemon tree which catches what little sun i get. 

Are there indigenous shrubs which can take semi sun or shade, and can take our highveld frost? Or non indigenous, too? I have Mackaya bella, heteropexis, and buddleia, but are there others perhaps?

What flowers can I plant that will flower in April in the Tweespruit Area? Eastern Free State

How to extract seeds (tiny brown) of eggplant-brinjaal? Do you germinate straight to soil.or use seedlings containers? KZN

How should I make tea from goat's manure? It is not fresh manure from goats living in the veld in the Bushveld. Will this tea be beneficial on tomatoes grown in my home garden? Will dark coloured tea be too strong for the plants?
 Gauteng

What is goat moth? Western Cape

 Why is my lemon tree not bearing fruit? Gauteng

I'd like to know what fruit trees are suitable to plant in the durban area. And what fruit trees bear fruit quickly? KZN

I planted some broccoli seedlings about two months ago however; no heads of broccoli seem to be growing just lots of leaves and the plants are getting taller. Is this normal or is there something wrong?
 KZN

I believe I have a very large Monkey thorn in my very small garden ( just moved in - Rental property).
 I would like to know what I can plant under the tree. Some info:
 The tree canopy is + 2 storeys high. 
The entire ground area is just covered in compacted sand. 
I was told that the tree gives off a toxin that kills off other plants.
 The ground gets morning sun. No afternoon sun.
 Help please as I need to establish a ground cover before the rain comes otherwise it will be a mud slush/ slide/ mess. Gauteng

Looking for a low level growing ground cover. 90% shaded area. Tried various types of grass - not working. Small areas to cover. Must be evergreen. Gauteng

What can I plant at my front door (south facing) in pots that looks attractive. Gauteng

Types of grasses (bushes) to plant in large duck cage? Northern Cape

I recently did some renovating and expanded my garden a bit, but the expanded area is mostly in shade (except in summer) and is bordered by a high, white wall which I desperately want to at least partially cover (and plant in front of) as quickly as possible. Ideally I would like to use indigenous plants (or at least non invasive aliens) which do not use too much water. Is this impossible? As part of the solution I was thinking of putting small rocks on the ground here and there. The space is about 5 metres by 3.2 metres... Gauteng

I found your website and have just recently planted a variety of proteas in my garden. I have a variety of proteas, pin cushions and I just want to know what other plants can I plant with the proteas to make the garden look fuller. It is a new garden.
 Gauteng

Any suggestions for water wise ground covers to plant around my roses?

I am based near the Atlantis area of the Western Cape (lots of sun and sand, but we do have lots of water). I am looking for shade giving trees, preferably indigenous, preferably fast-growing and it's to provide shade and non poisonous. Any suggestions?

I am looking for a small water wise perennial that will grow in full shade, as it will be planted in a hanging basket - the soil depth is shallow. Western Cape

Would like to plant ground cover between cement blocks in my garden what would you recommend on a budget? Western Cape

Are proteas affected by weed killers?

Will Columnar Basil grow in a tub in full sun? And will the Correa Alba and/or Greek Basil grow in well drained pots in full sun. KZN

What should i use to get pesky mushrooms off my lawn?

I live in Mossel Bay area and would like to plant a small/medium tree (with a max of 3m height and 2m diameter) in my garden. I need something that will be sort of ornamental and evergreen to form a shield and vocal point. It must also be fast growing, and ideally allow for the planting of annuals under and around it. :) Tall order hence my quandary. Western cape

How often should the cupressus be watered? Western Cape

What could I plant as a ground cover instead of lawn, which is hardy as I have 3 large dogs? It is not a very large area about 30 - 40 square meters. Western Cape

We are proposing to allow our verge/pavement to " revert " to nature to assist biodiversity but need advise on what to grow. Can you assist with advice please? Gauteng

I have just moved in a new area in Atteridgeville, West of Pretoria. it has a lot of rocks. my favourite fruit trees are mango and lemon. how do I get about starting a new garden for flowers, herbs and trees? Gauteng

My late husband left me with a tunnel 40 m long 6m high with 40% black shade net as a last farewell gift... I don't know what to plant ..will fruit trees grow...? also an irrigation system of borehole water... Free State

Please suggest a list of shrubs and plants that will flower in April?....inland....frost free. Eston/Mid Illovo. KZN

Which proteas would you recommend for planting in my garden in Polokwane? Limpopo

I’d like to know if one can use bath water to water plants – not necessarily the leaves, but the soil. 

What types of aloes can I plant (just to add) in my garden, I do like one or couple of aloe plants among flowers or shorter trees as they stick above.

We live in Knysna, in an estate on hilly ground. The house is mostly surrounded by retaining walls in front and back with hights graduating from level ground up to 3 meters in front and a straight wall of about 2,5 meters in back, both about 50 meters long.The retaining walls (Sholin) consist of concrete blocks stacked upon one another, slightly receding as they go up, leaving a small space of about 5 to 7cm per layer to plant in. In the walls we have planted a type of vygie from cuttings taken from those that were already planted in the wall helter skelter. The walls are pretty well covered now with a mass of hanging dark green vygies of which we unfortunately cannot determine the name - it has tiny white flowers which make it a bit drab.
We have been going through websites in order to find a more colourful climber/creeper/cover/etc which we could plant in this wall, mostly covering the ugly concrete and possibly cascading down. Nearly the whole of the present garden consists of indigenous plants and also mostly indigenous to this particular region.
Perhaps you could give us some ideas of what would work here?

I know that birds love Panicum maximum, but what other grasses do see eating birds particularly like? 

I'm wondering  whether it's the right time for me to make rose cuttings for propagation. Some roses have just started blooming and some not yet,I'm an amateur.

I don't know if you will be able to assist or advise me on who can or perhaps recommend a book that can guide me?
I currently live in Pretoria and am moving to Schweizer-reneke in the North West.
I have absolutely no idea what works plant, shrub and flower wise in that area with limited water and very hot summers and cold winters?
We will have to do proper ground preparation as the ground in the yard doesn't seem very favorable for anything. Please help.

When must spring-flowering bulbs be lifted? Western Cape

We farm in the Robertson area. It can get very cold with frost in the winter and extremely hot in the summer with wind mostly in the afternoons. I need to plant a dam wall in full sun with a groundcover that is fastgrowing and can endure extreme conditions. Can you advise me on a few ideas? Western Cape

We have a large area (about 80 square meters) on our verge that is full sun. We are not gardeners, so want to plant something that needs very little TLC and little water. Could you possibly suggest something?
Western Cape

How do I attract birds to my garden? Gauteng

I have a hornbill that sometimes comes into my garden, how can I get it to come back? Gauteng

What fertiliser and soil do i use for potted cactus? Eastern Cape

Do you need to remove the frost cover when you water the garden or does it go through?

Please I am an amateur gardener. I have a west facing wall which gets afternoon sun only.   There are already a number of tall shrubs growing against the wall - however just in front and underneath them it is pure sand.  Nothing is growing there.  I would like to know whether there are plants which I could plant there which would grow. It is also to add to my woes a slope. I would appreciate it very much if you could assist me. I have been thinking of Clivias and Agapanthus. Even Gazanias. Your advice in much appreciated. Eastern Cape

Please recommend summer plants for hanging baskets,early morning sun.
 Western Cape

I'm hoping you can advise. I have an empty north facing house wall. I really like the sub tropical look but as it is in full sun not much will grow. Also i wanted to plant palms but am worried they will get too tall and roots will mess up the foundations. Hope you can help. Eastern Cape

We live in George and I wonder if you can help regarding storage of the bulbs for the next season which include Dutch Irises, Chasmanthe, Ixia and Tritonia.

I am looking for something that I can plant in my very small garden that bares fruits one can eat. but I can put in a semi shade place something that can also withstand this heat. Gauteng

My lawn is planted on sandy soil.What can I do to ensure water retention? Northern Cape

Good Day. 
I am looking for plants that can relive sinus congestion. Do such plants exist? My entire family suffers with sinus, including myself. 
Please let me know if you can assist.

Are the yellow cloud salvias or any other yellow flowered sages available in South Africa. Particularly in Somerset West or Cape Town. Would so much appreciate any info. you could give me.

I stay on a farm and would like to know what indigenous shrubs can you recommend. Limpopo

Living in potch. Very small garden. Need a tree with a non aggressive root system because there isn't much place. North West

Can I grow herbal pots plants in the kitchen. Eastern Cape

I live on the top floor (3rd) apartment in (very) windy Gordon's Bay. I want to create a roof garden and specifically plant some creepers. This must have a shallow root system and be strong enough to withstand strong wind. The planters will probably have to be long boxes around 500mm high and I can put up steel trellises. The wall will get mostly afternoon sun. I also love white flowers. Any ideas? Western Cape

I need advice on what to grow as a ground cover, in St helena bay. Also pet resistant. Western Cape

I want to find out which tree would work in my garden around 5 metres from house. Want a big tree that is evergreen and doesn't lift up or damage pipes or paving. That is super fast growing for Vanderbijlpark area. Gauteng

I am looking for the name of a vygie plant that has "Hair" like structures on the leaves. I don't have a picture, but we were told about this plant, the farmers in our area plant them to keep snakes off their property, apparently it does not smell very nice.

I live in Pinelands. We do not have typical soil for the area as our property was build on the old UCT sports field. We have also added quality top soil so we have at least 50 cm of good soil before reaching sandy soil. (Western Cape)

Are the following plant water wise? Nandina Pygmaea, Corex autum glow? Eastern Cape

Wanting to start a lemon tree plantation on my farm outside Vaalwater Limpopo. It was a tobacco farm earlier, iIpresume the soil will be suitable? I do grow around my farm enclosure and they perform well, including limes. Limpopo

I’ve just read an article on your website. I’m a chairperson at a retirement village. The elderly people use their grey water to water the rose garden – I see it is not good according to your article. I know that the lady who is in charge of the rose garden once mentioned it to me that somebody said you can use grey water on roses, but at least once a week you also have to give the roses clean water. Can you please assist me in this matter?

I have an arch. Which would be the best creeper to plant for it that will flower often through the year and will be fast growing? KZN

What annuals can I plant to flower in March. I have a small garden so keep to pinks purple lilacs blues and white. KZN

Good day, I have moved to Port Elizabeth. What can I plant that will take full sun in summer and shade in winter.

I'm looking for eco friendly solutions as alternatives to planting a lawn in an area where nothing has been planted as yet. I want an alternative that requires little watering, fertilising, mowing, etc. Ideally it should be something 2 kids and 1 pet dog friendly. 
I've read about the clover alternative and have come across conflicting views. Also, all places including 2 plant nurseries in my are do not have in stock the clover seeds. Would clover be a good alternative given my requirements, and what breed of clover should I consider? I live in Midrand, Johannesburg.

I am looking for a very low-growing, mat-forming vygie to surround a wetland area. Delosperma seems the best since it will last longer but will they cope with little or no summer rain? Any other ideas? Western Cape

I want to grow beans and tomatoes in black bags. I need advice how to do that successfully. Gauteng

I have just moved into Southbroom, KZN. The garden soil is poor and you need a pickaxe to dig to plant anything. Nothing can grow with out new soil. It's on a sloping and stony soil. Can I start now or wait for winter. I did gardening in Bethlehem Freestate and do not know Natal gardens.

I am wanting to grow a vegetable garden in my backyard... I'm wondering if you can offer any assistance with that... I would appreciate any guidance or help, even if it is just help with farming herbs.. Pietermaritzburg, KZN

The alkalinity of my soil is 8.5, how do I reduce it 5.5. Western Cape

Trees for small garden, fast growing, coastal windy area? Eastern Cape

For a new Shade garden, waterwise, suggest please background tall shrubs, coming forward. Gauteng

I need to plant some colourful and evergreen plants in Sasolburg, Freestate which will handle the climate. It's for a small shopping centre which needs to be done up.

Half my garden gets full sun, whilst the other half is in perpetual shade thanks to the massive tree on my pavement. On the sunny side i've recently planted spekboom (to eventually form a hedge) and wild garlic as a border around paving. I've put in succulents (they are amongst my favourite plants) in three small areas. What do i put in the shaded areas that's similar (hardy, water-wise) to what i already have in my garden? I need something that'll eventually form a hedge. Western Cape

What's the difference between organic and chemical fertilisers?

There is a beautiful smell in the fynbos of the Eastern Cape and I am dying to know what plant or mixture of plant creates it. It is unique, I think to the Eastern Cape. I smell it every where in the Eastern Cape at my camp site near Van staadens mouth. It smells almost like a sweet basil or lavender type of smell. Please help me identify the smell? Thanks

I have clay to heavy clay soil in my garden. what can I do to better the drainage. I want to plant Citrus in the ground and not containers but a hole in the clay is like a container with no drainage holes. Free State

We recently moved to Paarl, where it gets really hot and dry in Summer and snow-on-the-mountains cold and rainy in Winter. 
The pool area is small and a blank canvas at the moment. Please would you recommend a small fast growing evergreen tree that would be suitable to stand about 2m from the pool and 1m from the paving. The ideal would be a 'local' (inheemse), hardy tree which can provide some shade.


Would it be possible please to send me a list of shrubs and ground covers that are hardy and ingenious to Gauteng. Our trees have got rather large and the grass is not doing very well. I would like to remove the grass and add stepping stones, some plants and shrubs.

I'm looking for plants that flower or look good in winter (July). Preferably indigenous. Sun and shade. Gauteng

Can you suggest some colourful plants/shrubs for shady areas? I try to plant only indigenous but am open to suggestion. Eastern Cape

I want some colour on the east side of my house. What flowers can I plant now that will flourish in morning sun? North West

How does one get rid of three leaf clover and the wild onion that has just become a problem. Have tried some weed killers but it does seem to have any effect on there two problems. Gauteng

I have never done gardening before. I just bought a small complex and we don't have a lot of space my best bet will be to use pot plants, but I want to start with just 5. My garden will be exposed to the sun half the day. It’s only a small area in the patio where there is shade throughout the day. What will be ideal to plant in Pinetown at this time of the year? KZN

Plants suitable for window boxes facing north? (Position very hot) Western Cape  


I wonder if you can give me some advice regarding what to plant now in my garden so as to be flowering mid April. 
My mother in law is getting married at our house and i am wanting to prepare the garden for her special day on the 15th April. I live in Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape.
The bed is going to be planted beneath a hedge of Tecoma which is trimmed back, the bed will probably get 80% sunshine during the day. It is a very narrow straight bed. I tend to stick to indigenous plants in my garden but seeing as i am preparing it for a wedding i thought some colour might be nice. I also try and plant things that will attract birds, butterflies, bees etc.
Can you please suggest a few options for me.


I'm struggling with downy mildew on my roses. They're in pots so never have water on the leaves & we've not had rain. I water 2/3 times a week in the morning, fertilising with Ludwigs rose fertiliser monthly. I've sprayed with Rose care & Chronos but no joy. Advice would be appreciated. Western Cape

What types of plants that I can put in my garden ? I'm a school caretaker so I wanna make the garden look good. So what are good types of plants that can grow nice in KZN?

We have the pom pom weed in our grazing. How can we get rid of it? We have a farm in Delmas. Mpumalanga

What fertiliser is best for succulents? Eastern Cape

I am situated in Dewetsdorp Southern Free State. I want to grow veggies for 6 people. (Us and two workers with families).

Please can you advise which plants and/or herbs and veg will grow well in full summer sun? Gauteng

May you kindly advise on which species of roses would be suitable for Nongoma in Northern KZN?

What veggies and herbs can i plant through out the whole year? I am going to start a vegetable garden and I am going to build a greenhouse. I have planted certain herbs like parsley, mint and spring onion and veggies like cabbage, carrots and spinach. Gauteng

I live in the KZN midlands and we get frost. What shrubs can be planted for winter colour? KZN

I have a small rock garden that would like to put some plants into. I am not sure which plants would be most suitable for this climate/region. please help. Free State

I want to plant flowers that will be in bloom or are colorful all year round year. What suggestions do you have? Gauteng

Winter flowering perennials that die down in summer and are self-seeding?

I am seriously considering removing my grass for ground cover, what would you recommend? Western Cape

What vegetables can I plant in March that are also winter friendly? KZN

What fruit trees could I successfully cultivate in Hillcrest/Waterfall in KZN? I am planning a small garden orchard and want to plant as much variety as possible, so preferably not only citrus but also some deciduous varieties it at all possible. KZN

How to plant green pepper? Eastern Cape

I want to plant spinach and carrots and butternut i want to know that i am planting at the right time? Limpopo

Can you kindly advise what seeds can be sown for flowers from now (late Feb) till April. Western Cape

Are dahlias cultigens? Gauteng

I have started growing butternuts vertically and have had as many as 8 butternuts on one plant. ALL are stung and then the larvae feast on the butternut. I support the actual fruits with a soft tying tape which does not burden the mother plant with their weight. I have destroyed these plants and infected fruit. 1) Is it too late to replant seeds ? How do I keep these pests under control? Gauteng

We farm in the Jansenville area and I'm interested in growing beans and tomatoes for my home use. Our water is brak and so are the soils. I would appreciate any advice on how to plant these...should I use containers/trellis/garbage cans etc? I've seen a lot of ideas on pinterest. When is the time to plant these vegetables? What other vegetables would suit this Karoo climate? Eastern Cape

I would like to have a whole new garden planned and planted. Which is the best time of year to do that in order to establish best growth and strong root development? We live in Stellenbosch. Thank you for your professional service. Western Cape

I planted the rainbow pepper's stems with its seeds and now my sister tells me that she also planted tomatoes seeds at the same spot I planted my stems. Now there is like more than 50 trees and I can't tell the difference which is which. Please advise - they are small.

Please advise - according to my knowledge, Rhagodia hastata is not indigenous - am I wrong? Western Cape

Is March a good time to plant potato trees? Gauteng

I need a fast-growing tree to provide a screen between our house & the neighbours. We live on the beach on the north coast of KZN & the aspect is East. I would like something evergreen to provide a dense screen. I would rather not have Wild Banana or Silverleaf but would like an indigenous plant. KZN

I need advice for a good ground cover with low maintenance. KZN

I stay in Waterkloof Park and am looking for plants to use in flower beds in driveway under olive trees, half shade half sun, in fact more shade now, they mustn't grow higher than say 45cm and would luv colour - purple, yellow, white
. The beds are 1mx1m (3) and 4mx1m (1) bed. Pls assist and what compost etc swell. Gauteng

4) What flowers should be planted in March? Gauteng

I would like to get a list of colorful flowers that is indigenous to KZN as I live in an echo estate and can't plant just anything. KZN

I am looking for low lying border plants filled with colour and preferably scented. That will grow year after year. Please tell me what to buy. I don't want to grow from seed. Eastern Cape

Please tell me what the difference between a white milkwood and a red milkwood are they seem to have totally different names.

Which colours attracts birds to you garden? Limpopo

Does blueberry grow in west jhb-tarlton region- lots of wind and gets cold in winter? Gauteng

My parents sadly has to move to Cape town and leave their beautiful garden and many species birds behind. What can my parents do to attract birds to their new garden once in melkbosstrand? I'm trying to give my parents some peace of mind that they will have a garden filled with little visitors again.

What type of flowering plant can I have during winter? KZN

After 18 years, my mom's townhouse garden has lost its luster. The grass, although fed and aerated is dying and with the rain, most of the good soil has washed away it seems.
 She would like to revitalise the grass. It is about 3m by 10m only, and she wants to remove the grass, rest the soil and feed it. And in a week or so replant with new grass.
 It is almost winter, how do we go about it? Centurion

My neighbour and I want to cover our 25m diamond mesh fence at the top of a steep slope which is under an Oak tree, thus semi-shaded area. Would you recommend planting jasmine and what kind? I want a neat hedge that grows to 1.5 meters that will work in my waterwise garden. The more I google hedges the more confused I get since I do not have green fingers and want to avoid costly mistakes in my garden. Western Cape

Pls id like to find out what flower plants veggies fruits and trees wil do best in port alfred. Thanks a lot. Eastern Cape

My wedding anniversary is on 7 May. Which flowers bloom in autumn? More specifically, are daffodils available? We will be married for 10 years and daffodils are symbolic of our anniversary. if not, what else is second best? Western Cape

We live in the north of Pretoria and we have long boundary  walls on either side of our house and I would like make a flower/shrub bed. Please advise me which plants I can plant against a north facing wall which gets very hot and all day sun and the other one is south facing with a little sun in the morning. Your early response will be greatly appreciated.

I live in Geelong Australia, my question is will vinca plants survive the winter in our region of Australia south east? They get early morning sun until 2pm.
 They have been exceptional plants through this Summer and still look good at April.

We live in Centurion and would like to redo one of our garden beds. At the back of the bed is a large red hibiscus which my husband wants to leave in the garden. What other plants can we add that will compliment the existing hibiscus? Gauteng

Want to plant winter veggies. Sweet potato and butternut and normal potato and Tomatoes. No clue how to start or even prepare the soil. What do I need to do? What do I need to buy? I already have all plants mentioned. KZN

What to plant now (April) for winter, vegetables and herb wise? Gauteng

I have a huge piece of land available in the Kromdraai, Muldersdrift area and I would love to turn it into a lavender field as it will be a great use of the land. What I want to know is, will the Margaret Roberts Lavender do well there because I just love them? Hope to hear from you soon, Gauteng

My husband and I have moved to Cape Town from up country and have no idea yet how different it will be to have a pretty garden with winter coming. We have an extremely small court yard where we have a container garden.
The straight narrow bed faces north. We have put hydrangeas, ferns, impatience, rosemary and fuchsias into pots. Plectranthus  is doing well in the ground between pots.
I would like advice about putting in bulbs and other winter flowering plants so that we have loads of colour so I look forward to reading your newsletters.
 I would like to put in Lily of the Valley or Snow Drops. Which will grow here?

Which veggies to plant in April/May? Maipelo, North West

I have a question that I would like to know I live in Rustenburg in the north west I want to know what flower seeds I can sow that will bring colour to my garden through autumn and winter months?

I have an area on the south side of my house that I want a ground cover to go either side of a path. I stay in Alberton, Gauteng, the area in the garden is shaded, dry and the soil does not retain water well. Do you have any ground covers that you can recommend?

Please advise what a good tree would be for an area between two houses - to block out the neighbour's garage - the area is very shady and it is to go in a fairly narrow passage way - thank you. Eastern Cape

Our garden is indigenous and we need a climber, to grow up a metal support, the support is N/S and we want the climber for privacy and shade on the patio on the East side of the support. The climber must be able to take the full West sun as well. Any ideas? Gauteng

How can I improve the quality of sandy soil? Gauteng

How to prepare my soil for my garden? I have a new house developed. House is built on a rock. I need less water requiring plants. I also like food and fruits garden.
 Free State

My garden has taken a beating with lack of water and I am tempted to feed plants with compost and topsoil to be ready for when the rain starts. Is it a good time now to feed? Western Cape


Our family farm is near Victoria West in the Karoo. 
The farm is at around 1,500m altitude, and therefore is prone to frequent and late frost. We can easily still get frost in September or October
. We have kudu frequenting the garden often, currently they are destroying our peach, fig and plumb trees, as well as the vineyards. 
We have irrigation water available, to irrigate any trees
. We have good success with pomegranates and "kwepers". 
There are also some hazel nut trees that seem to grow very well
. Reliable labour to properly spray and tend to the trees is a problem, as we stay in Cape Town and only visit the farm once every two months
. Currently we have around 50 fruit trees, but harvest no fruit from any, except the pomegranate and "kwepers". I am considering to pull all the other trees out, and replant with some trees that will withstand the cold (and kudu's and poor management!) and that will also bear fruit that can be stored or processed. We have thought of:
 Pecan nuts
, Hazelnuts
, Pomegranate
, Kwepers.

Which plants will thrive in clay soil? Free State

Can I grow pincushion flowers in central California, specifically Visalia, Ca. 93291

Please advise on soil preparation when planting petunias in retaining wall pockets and, on the watering thanks. KZN

I live in the north eastern suburbs of Johannesburg. I really would love to plant a few veggies in the garden, but the soil is that awful red clay type. What should I do to make it "friendlier" for vegetables? Gauteng

I have recently bought a house in the northern suburbs of Cape Town. This area has sandy soil. There is basically no garden and the drought has left its mark. The front garden is small and it gets very hot in this area. The wall next to the gate faces north. I want to plant one or two trees here that can give me dappled shade so that I can plant ferns, etc under the trees. Because of the location, I cannot plant a tree with an extensive root system. I thought of something like a leopard tree, but I believe the roots will be a problem. I read that the Silver Birch could be a possibility. If possible, it should be growing fast. At the back, there is an unfinished koi pond that I will get going. There is an attempt to create a waterfall effect. Any idea for shade, or should I consider a pergola? Then to the left, I want to plant a row of evergreen trees that can cover the wall. In the front thereof, shorter shrubs. I would again appreciate trees that grow fast. I like a tropical look. I look forward to your advice.      

I can only plant 6 roses in containers on North facing deck. Which ones would you recommend? I would like them to flower for a long time and have a strong fragrance. I would like hybrid teas with a ground cover Rose at bottom. Eastern Cape

HI I have just purchased a 21 hectare ex stud farm The paddocks are over run by vygie I think the name is lampranthus. What is the best method to clear 15 hectares? They have a root and long strips of runner leaves. Is it best to remove by hand or spray? Western Cape

I would like to know which vegetables are good to plant in winter? Limpopo

I live in Durbanville, Cape Town. I have a bed that get full sun in summer but just about no sun in winter.
I wanted to plant things like aloes, strelitzia, proteas and succulents there until I realized the bed does not receive sun in winter.
What do you suggest I plant in this bed? It is in a corner, triangle shape with 2 side of about 2.5 m and front side facing the lawn about 4m. The neighbours have large edge shrubs against the wall blocking out the sun in winter.

Good morning. I would like to know what vegetables to grow here in Frankfort, Free State.  It is very cold in the mornings but lovely during the day and at night cold.  I am busy building a garden shed made out of shade cloth.  What can I plant now (May)?

What can I plant in full sun for winter colour? I just took my roses out, because we have serious water shortage. Mpumalanga

Please can you tell me how to improve Wonder lawn. I have just moved to a town house with a tiny garden most of which is covered in wonderlawn in poor condition.
 Can I put top soil on it? Mpumalanga

All my indoor plants had a type of white mold on them, including my Moth Orchids. I sprayed with Orius. I misread the instructions and made the mixture far, far to strong and have burnt all the leaves. Must I cut the orchid's leaves away or leave them. Will my orchids die? Gauteng

I am looking for very perfumed roses - what would you suggest? We live near Port Alfred, EC.
    

Im living at the West Coast in Port Owen. We have borehole water which is a bit salty. Can you recommend plants, shrubs to plant please? Im not a big fan of vetplante.

What other plants grow well with roses in one bed? Mpumalanga

When do we plant guavadilla seeds in PE? does it need a trellis and how long does it take to bear fruit?

Is it to late to plant sweet peas and poppies? (May) Gauteng

We live in the Northern suburbs in Johannesburg and hate to confess have neglected our garden’s “health”. We intend on spending time and money on it and I want to get this right. (I am not a gardener!!) We have clay soil, so my questions are as follows
What can we do to improve the drainage / nourishment etc of the soil
What plants work best in this type of soil?

I need to make 100 burlap seed bags for wedding favours. What seeds would you recommend to put in the bag? Gauteng

What can I plant (veggies) this season? I just wanna start my own vegetable garden. I've never planted before except trees and flowers. I don't have any knowledge on planting veggies please advise. Mpumalanga

I would like a small shrub for height in two pots. The pots are under a canopy in the shade. Any suggestions please? North West

My name is  Refilwe Malatji , a new Horticulturist for Pretoria National Botanical Garden. I am currently planning to develop an annual lawn maintenance  plan for our botanical garden, as it has never been maintained well for the past 7 years. May I ask for your expertise in this regards or can I ask  what kind of treatment must I apply each season, or do you perhaps have a developed seasonal lawn treatment plan ?

I read your article on grey water use in the garden and have a specific question; my wife and I make our own bath salt using 2 parts pink salt and 1 part epsom salt. We use a big handful in each bath. I know the epsom salt is good, but does the double dose of pink salt off-set any possible advantage? Should we water our garden with this water and should we add fertiliser to this water before watering? We have a small lawn that is recovering from the drought but looks like it is going to make it (it's about 2/3 grey-brown and 1/3 good long and green). We also have two small beds with herbs (new seedlings) and lavender (older plants also recovering).

I cant win the battle of weeds on my lawn - is there any solution? and which flowers can i plant in winter? i stay in zeerust town. North West

Is it advisable or what is the success rate of taking/making cuttings in winter? 
I'm looking into trying a rough skinned lemon cutting but not too sure if its a good idea in Winter.


I want to plant a windbreak in concrete rectangular planters sized 40cm (high) x 80cm (long). I have 2 of these planters and want to provide shelter from north-easterly winds. Ideally the trees must still have a neat structure since my garden is small (6m x 5m) - which are the best hedges/trees to use? Is bamboo a possibility? Western Cape

I have covered some of my plants with the frost cover cloth do i have to open them during the day. Kindly advise. Zeerust

I want to plant a white climbing rose over an arch - a multiflora, tough one - any suggestions? Eastern Cape

We have started a veggie garden at Protea Old Age Home and we want to plant everything but not sure what is seasonal in Gauteng at the moment?

I have a fountain in my garden in Sedgefield which get sun from morning till noon. I plan to plant Cupheas, but they look not so good in the nursery. Will they survive the sun in my garden? I am looking for a short growing shrub (30-50cm) that will grow in full sun. Western Cape

What type of garden sand to use for a vegetable garden? Gauteng

I want to plant something in containers on a paved pathway that runs next to my house. It only gets late afternoon sun. I have this "romantic" idea of something with a fragrance so that the scent drifts in through the open windows!!! Eastern Cape

I have a small pavement with grass under three olive trees. I need to replace the grass with a ground cover that will grow in the shade, should be indigenous and water wise. What would you recommend please. Gauteng

I am planting a herb garden in pots that fit on a frame in full sun outdoors.
 1. Type of fertiliser, amount, how often? 
2. Watering, how often? 
3. Which veggies and herbs can I plant now?
 4. I had YEAR round spinach in a large pot on my patio - can I plant chard/spinach again now? Western Cape

Is it ok to divide established plants in winter in Durban? And planting of new plants? Is it ok cool I do so in winter. I have been dividing plants before in the winter months. No plants have died. I water well after planting then every third day after doing the finger test to see if soil is moist or dry. I am under the impression that in winter it is the best time. The roots become established before spring starts where the plant needs to grow and push new shoots and flowers. KZN

Is the desert rose succulent poisonous? Free State

What is the difference between Lampranthus pink and Delosperma cooperi pink? Gauteng

We have a flat roof covered in pebbles getting sun all day. We want to fill 10 pots with succulents, but do not want massive pots; although the roof is approx 7 x 7 meters. How do we go about this? Possibly 1 plant variety per pot? We want to save water so watering once a month would be the objective. Should all pots be the same size or have different styles? Gauteng

I bought some naartjies at our local Co-op some are still very green how do I assist them with the ripening process? KZN

I have been wondering which indigenous shrub or small tree I could plant in my yard that is possibly helping to conserve a species of tree. If I can get it as a seeding or pup, and not to slow growing.. I also don't want to spend to much money buying it.
I enjoy contributing to nature and environment. With the size of my back yard its quite a chore to work through. So keeping little maintenance in mind along with drought tolerant depending on the years rainfall..
I mainly work organic compost and bone meal into my soil...
I have some space for 2 or 3. Gauteng

We want to move a small fever tree in our garden. When is the best time to do that?

I'm looking for evergreen bulbs for my garden. Please be so kind and forward me a list of names? Much appreciated. Gauteng

What type of ground cover can I plant in a generally sunny area that will last all year round? Gauteng

I am looking for a ground cover that can be occasionally walked on that is drought tolerant and grows in clay rich soil. In sun and partial shade areas? Western Cape

We are sea facing and my front garden is completely in the shade in winter. What can I plant in the shade? Western Cape

I live in Ntuzuma and I love beautiful garden so I want know more about plants I can plant in my area? KZN

I have just recently started a vegetable garden. I would like to know when is the best time to plant beans. My whole garden is covered with shade net. KZN

I reside in Emmarentia, Johannesburg. I have a face brick window box, 3 layers, that's running next to my stairs where one goes to the front door. I currently have ivy growing there, it gives no colour and it keeps growing and clinging to other parts of the wall, where it shouldn't grow, this area gets a lot of sun. I don't know what to grow in its place. Star Jasmine has been suggested - I am afraid that it attracts a lot of bees , because it will be close to my front door . I need something that will also hang over on the other side . I don't know if Wisteria will be the solution. I would appreciate your suggestions.

What other seeds can I plant for colour? I have a north, east and west wall. I want to start a small vegetable garden too. Gauteng   

I would like advice on a suitable ground cover, green, grey white, for the current drought conditions. My preference was diamond frost, but I gather not suitable for the current drought conditions. The garden is in Camps Bay. Western Cape

Can you still eat strawberries if they have bite marks from slugs?

Can I use Pinebark Mulch on roses and other parts of my garden ie vegetables. What is the difference between Mushroom compost and Pinebark Mulch?

I have a large garden with no trees. I want to know if there are any trees that grow fast and makes a lot of shade that I can plant. And that will cope with the weather of Lydenburg . Preferably no thorns since we have toddlers. Mpumalanga

When would be the best time for me to plant evergreen groundcover? Gauteng

What veggies can one grow now (August)? Eastern Cape

We have a small townhouse garden with a lot of dappled shade. We before the leopard tree got to its size now we had no problem with summer blommetjies. We need some ideas of flowering plants for limited sun and dappled shade please. East of Pretoria Lynnwood. Gauteng

When is the best time to mow your lawn for the first time after winter? First rains? Gauteng

Looking for a flower for a small bed area mostly shady and shallow root system? Gauteng

Does full sun exclude shade cloth? Eastern Cape

What is the best way to apply 3:1:5 to potted plants? Gauteng


I would like to plant a wall of protea bushes along my top fence. The area is in full sun and the ground is on a slight slope. In the winter there is the odd day of frost but nothing to severe. I would like to plant a variety so that there are flowers blooming all year round. Do you have any suggestions of what type of protea's would best suit this? Gauteng

I live in the small WestCoast town of Velddrif, although there are a couple  of nurseries around, they do not  offer a lot of  support.
As a fairly new comer to this area I am having a  bit of a problem of what to grow .
The soil is river sand white and coarse and without any life
what can I do to improve the soil, we have the extremes very hot dry summers cold and wet winter. Any help will  be appreciated.

Ground cover for full shade areas? Gauteng

I'm starting a planter bed over concrete approximately 3mX2m in a fairly sunny area.
I would like to create a floral garden that could be a feature through the sitting room window. Eastern Cape

What seeds should I plant now for: 

-full sun

- semi shade
? Gauteng

We are about to develop a new garden at a recently built home on a hillside overlooking Knysna lagoon. Much of the soil has a high clay content and although we will use a lot of top soil and compost when planting out trees and shrubs we were wondering what are the best shrubs and plants for high clay soils?
 I have heard that the waterberry tree is quite good in clay soils, but they tend to have aggressive root systems near house foundations.


Where does lime, lemon, orange and grapefruit grow in south africa? Eastern Cape

Please could you give me some advice on which plants to plant in my garden. I would like to plant plants which are evergreen and that don’t need much work as I don’t have the time. I would like to fill the empty spaces between the trees and shrubs with ever green plants.
My flowerbed is surrounded by a wall so I do get some shade in the flowerbeds.
I would also like to be advised on which mulch to use as I would like to conserve water. Gauteng

I need a recipe for a soil mix for succulents? KZN

We have bought a holiday home near Tokai in the Cape - near Cape Town. We have an empty pot at the back of the house which receives lots of summer sun and much less in winter. We would like to hide the aircon unit with a suitable shrub that gives colour in the summer and remains green during winter and only needs minimal looking after. Any suggestions please?

Please could you inform me what perennials I can plant in Johannesburg and also annuals for summer. I have a north facing area with small patch of lawn. Need colour.

Just wanted to find out whether a confetti bush and an Australian tea tree are the same plant?

I need a little advice i was told catnip is very good to keep cats out your garden i live in a T/H and a cat digging up my garden to poo. Please can you tell me if i get catnip will help someone told me cats love rolling in catnip. Otherwise, any other suggestions?

I have a bed in my garden - (about 1m X 6m) - that has full sun in summer and in winter is in shade. I live on the Hout Bay mountainside, not near the sea, in an area rich with fynbos. What do you suggest I plant there?

I am very new to gardening and would like to start an indigenous type garden in an area of about 20m2, however the soil is a clay type soil which worries me. What can I do to prepare the soil before planting? KZN

If I want to attract a lot of sunbirds and small species what type of plants would be best in Rustenburg. North West

I am a retired person loving gardening, who is currently facing a terrible garden facing issue. I reside in a townhouse facing North-east with neighbour's fencing approximately 1,8m high that causes a lot of shade with low sunshine all year. What would you recommend planting in such a difficult area?
 Free State

Quick growing creeper to cover an unsightly brick well. North facing. Gauteng

I live in Table View and want to start a small flowering garden. The patch of garden gets full sun almost all day. What are the best flowers and shrubs to plant that will grow in the full sun. I've never done any gardening before. Western Cape

What can I plant in a small (10 x 3m) south facing garden. Only some morning sun. I thought an hibiscus on the east facing wall and some iceberg roses on the west facing wall. Gauteng

Indigenous trees that can be grown around a sports field? Eastern Cape

How do you grow aloes from the leaf? Gauteng

We are struggling desperately with the drought here, and trying to maintain the gardens at our guest farm is so hard. What are the hardiest indigenous plants with a bit of colour that we can plant? Extreme heat and extreme cold? Also have areas with full sun and no sun at all? We are at our wits end and desperate for advice? Eastern Cape

Please help i am looking for quite a big shrub to put in the garden in a shade spot what can you recommend?

Good day. Hope this finds you well. I am a newly appointed SRC at the university of the Free State and I contact you seeking assistance. I plan on planting fruit trees here on campus such as those that are casually found in backyards, those of low maintenance. I plan to plant orange, apple, and peach trees.
I would appreciate some guidance on which trees to go for, when is the right time to plant is and other necessary information relevant to my idea such as soil type and fertilization.
Your feedback would be highly appreciated as it would serve as direction on how to execute my idea.