western-queensland-gardening-guide.pdf - South West NRM

A lot of people water pot plants by squirting the water straight at an area, and when
water runs out the bottom they think the plant is watered, but most times this is not
the case especially with a porous mix. The solution is to water slowly all over the soil
area. Pots with a base need the stale water tipped out from time to time, as stale
water can cause root rot. Pots can be soaked in a bucketful of water for a while
instead of being watered.
If you have a moisture meter it is a good tip to never dip it in water alone as it will
throw the balance out and give false readings later on.
My observations are that most people buy a plant and then never fertilise it again.
They walk into a nursery and see all the lush healthy plants but do not realise that
this is achieved by soil mixes, correct pH levels, watering procedures and regular
fertilising from fertiliser for root systems and foliage. Except for indoor plants and
nursery growing, I do not like foliage fertiliser. I favour a balanced organic mix like
chook manure pellets used four times a year, but not in excessive doses. I like the
fertiliser put on top of the ground not in the root zone at planting.
Planting for stock shade
I am often asked what trees to plant for stock shade and this is a great idea.
However, being in the area with the stock, the big question is how to protect these
trees until they mature.
There are a couple of possibilities-one to fence and the other to plant in fluming
pipes or hollow logs standing upright. This puts the tree above the reach of stock
more quickly. Logs in a lot of places are free and easy, but 10 years down the track
when the log rots away the tree will not have enough soil around the root zone
whereas fluming will last the life of the tree.
Atlracting birds
It is always a nice idea to plant trees and shrubs that attract birds but probably the
first thing is to declare war on wild cats. Some people think that if they plant a group
of flowering trees or shrubs they will get wild birds, but the poor old birds have to
get to this area. The birds need a corridor so they can fly to your area with safety.
Most flowering shrubs and trees in the west do not flower for long periods so it is a
good idea to try to get species that flower at different times and in the lean times
supply supplementary feeding. Water is also a big component and can be provided
by bird baths or shallow drums of water.