Live & Grow Issue 47

IN THIS ISSUE
This spring issue is bountiful
with colour, crops, houseplants
and knowledge.
Hanging In There
A selection of our favourite hanging
houseplants this season.
Bee Kind
Build a bug hotel and attract essential
pollinators to your garden.
Moveable Gardens
Limited space doesn’t need to affect
your ability to grow veggies and flowers
at home.
Issue 47 | Spring 2021

Spring 2021
What’s inside
16
4
Oderings-Grown Bedding
New season's plants from the
Oderings Wholesale team.
6
8
10
11
12
Create Your Own Bug Hotel
Create a bug hotel to attract beneficial
insects to your garden.
Bees and Butterflies
Miracle plants for our lovely honeybees
and butterflies.
Bee Kind with Mr Fothergill's
Help encourage bees to frequent your
garden.
Backyard Birdlife
Topflite explains why planting natives
and attracting birdlife is so valuable.
The Picking Bed
Our favourite picking flowers with
longer-lasting, vibrant blooms.
14 Oderings-Grown
Osteospermums
New varieties and old favourites for
vibrant outdoor performance this
summer.
16
Houseplant Water
Propagation
Find out how many houseplants can
be propagated in water.
18
19
20
22
23
24
26
29
Cacti Collection
Cacti are your solution if you have an
extra sunny spot inside and don't know
what to fill it with.
Air Plants
Unlike most other houseplants, air plants
don't need soil or a pot to grow.
Trailing Houseplants
A selection of our must-have trailing/
hanging houseplants this spring and
summer.
Pots – Ceramics
New colours and new styles, all of which
are exclusive to Oderings.
Elho – Creating Beauty from
Waste
Designed with nature in mind, everything
they make is also recyclable, including
their packaging.
Oderings Landscaping – Decks
The team take us through the different
materials and options.
Lawn Weeds
Identify weeds and know how to combat
them to achieve a top-notch lawn.
Exotic Gardening with Palms
Palms are making a resurgence in the
home garden thanks to their exotic
appearance.
30
32
33
34
35
36
38
Walkable Groundcovers
A selection of fantastic groundcovers
that are so hardy you can walk on them.
Moveable Gardens
Don't let limited space limit your ability
to grow flowers and edibles.
Growing Vegetables the Easy
Way
An easier way to grow your vegetables
and herbs sustainably at home.
Boost the Growth in your
Garden
Humate is the purest form of natural
organic matter and is 20 times more
potent than regular compost.
Benchtop Composting
Transform all your food waste, including
cooked food, meat, fish and cheese.
Potatoes – Frequently Asked
Questions
All your questions answered, plus the
know-how to grow a successful crop
in gardens and pots.
Oderings-Grown Edibles
Delicious additions for edible gardens.

Welcome back
Although the Oderings teams are pros at putting this magazine together,
we still see many effects of COVID-19 in our industry. Freight is an issue
for many of our suppliers ordering from overseas, tissue culture is being
cancelled or arriving six months later than intended, and seed is arriving very
late, if at all. As a result, the timelines, even for some of our most common
products, are in constant review. So if you can't find a product, please bear
with us, and remember you can pop your name in the order book at any of
our stores; we will call you when the product arrives.
On a lighter note, who doesn't want to attract bees, birds or butterflies to
their backyard? We have seven pages packed full of tips, tricks and plant
suggestions to help you, and a DIY article to help encourage beneficial insects
to your garden by making a bug hotel.
The Oderings wholesale teams have been very busy trying to find you new
and exclusive plants, and this season they’ve come up with some great new
colour lines and edibles. Our houseplant team has also been super busy
finding the latest and greatest plants, pots, and accessories for the coming
seasons, which you can see on pages 16 through 23.
Topping everything off is edible and natural goodness for you and your
garden. I don't know about you, but for me, there is nothing quite as satisfying
as harvesting fresh produce from my garden, and space need not be an issue.
We have a great article about moveable gardens that are portable and ideal
for people with patios, who live in rentals, are short on space or would like to
move their garden to follow the sun.
We hope you enjoy this Oderings Live & Grow issue, and we thank you,
our customers, for choosing to shop with us since 1929!
Happy Gardening
Pamela Smith
Editor
20
Oderings
Live & Grow
Editor Pamela Smith
Advertising Nicola McKee
Design Iva Hrubosova
Contributors Pamela Smith,
Daniel Hart, Jenna Zanchettin, Hollie Tilbury
Contact Us
Oderings Garden Centres Head Office
92 Stourbridge Street, Spreydon,
Christchurch 8024
PO Box 33125, Barrington
Christchurch 8244
P: 03 332 9099 F: 03 332 1585
info@oderings.co.nz
www.oderings.co.nz
19
Bulb Image
Store Locations
Barrington 03 332 9099
92 Stourbridge St, Christchurch
Cashmere 03 338 5193
205 Cashmere Rd, Christchurch
Linwood 03 982 3498
485 Linwood Ave, Christchurch
Philpotts 03 385 2386
116 Philpotts Rd, Christchurch
Yaldhurst 03 342 9198
20 West Coast Rd, Christchurch
Cambridge 07 855 6064
1689 Cambridge Rd, RD3, Hamilton
Havelock North 06 877 3051
57 Brookvale Rd
Napier 06 844 8105
11 Allen Rd, Pakowhai
Palmerston North 06 356 6797
136 Cook St, West End
© All content and images in this publication are subject to
copyright and reproduction of any part is strictly prohibited.

ODERINGS-GROWN
Marigold Popcorn
With a unique compact habit, this new variety is
remarkable. The closest to white yet, with many
blooms and excellent summer performance.
An award winner and highly recommended.
NEW
2021
Bedding
Zinnia Profusion Bicolour
This gorgeous Zinnia has a bold, vibrant red
centre ring surrounded by golden-yellow outer
petals. As the season progresses, the ageing
flowers morph into soft, beautiful shades of
apricot, salmon, and dusty rose. Available October
Zinnia Profusion Double Red
All the great attributes of the original Profusion
series, but with double flowers! It gets covered
with an abundance of big, full, blood-red
double blooms. Available October
4

Cosmos Pink Glow
One of a kind colour. The petals
appear bright pink in full sun, and
as the light changes, orange tones
wash over it like a glorious sunset.
Marigold Safari
Flaming Sunset
This eye-catching marigold
produces unusual, large, semidouble,
creamy-yellow flowers
that are boldly flecked with red.
Dianthus Double
Diamond
The first semi-double flowered
dwarf Chinensis! It gets smothered
in a mixture of striking double
flowers. It remains low growing in
the garden.
KEY
Gardens
Pots &
Planters
Potted
Colour
Standard
Bedding
Well
Drained
Drought
Tolerant
Frost
Tender
Easy To
Grow
Attract
Bees
• Water soluble
• Develops a strong
healthy root system
helping plants cope
with drought and stress
• Nourishes plants for more
abundant flowers and fruit
A PERFECT FOOD FOR ALL
INDOOR AND OUTDOOR PLANTS

6

Bug Hotel
Create Your Own
It’s lovely to encourage more beneficial insects
into your garden. Creating a bug hotel allows
you to see what creatures live around you
while offering them a convenient place to set
up a home. What’s even better is that you can
make a simple bug hotel from supplies found
around the home or not far away.
It is essential to use materials that aren’t treated with
chemicals or paint/varnish as these will deter the insects.
You can use old pallets or beer crates for the framing; the
wood is strong, and it’s an excellent opportunity to recycle.
Bees and other insects like small places to squeeze into,
so when you’re creating the hotel, think about the size
of the residents you’re hoping to attract and ensure the
nooks and crannies are the correct sizes. Making the holes
between 2 mm and 10 mm will work for most visitors.
You can fill the hotel with hollow bamboo canes, small
sticks and twigs, tree bark, and pine cones. If you have
smaller wood blocks around, you can drill varying sized
holes into the blocks and insert them into your hotel; make
sure the edges of the drilled holes are smooth. Again, this
is an opportunity to be creative and use the materials you
have around you.
Where you install your bug hotel will depend on what
insects you are catering for. If you encourage bees to live
in your hotel, you should mount it in full sun about a metre
off the ground. If you are after other insects, then find
a sheltered spot near the ground around the foliage.
Tips
• Make sure your bug hotel is sturdy, with a solid back
and roof to protect from rain and other harsh elements
• Avoid using materials that contain chemicals
• Clean the debris out of your bug hotel once a year
(when it looks uninhabited)
• Avoid using plastic as it attracts moisture and mould
to your bug hotel
7

Bees and
Butterflies
We all know bees act as excellent pollinators in the garden,
but many don't realise that butterflies are also quietly
working away, pollinating flowers and edibles.
And unlike bees, butterflies see the colour red and some
other wavelengths better than their buzzy friends.
As pollinators, bees and butterflies play an essential
role in our gardens as they fly and transfer pollen
from flower to flower, fertilising so the flowers
can start to form fruit and seeds.
1
2
A
8

3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Ode the Bumblebee's Favourite Plants
1. Gaura Butterfly White | 2. Gaura Butterfly Rose |
3. Armeria White | 4. Armeria Pink | 5. Rosemary
Prostrata | 6. Cosmos Sonata Mixed | 7. Felicia
Amelloides | 8. Osteospermum Afrikaans Purple |
9. Osteospermum Afrikaans Yellow | 10. Gazania Hazy
Pink | 11. Gazania Rose Stripe | 12. Stachys Byzantina
(lamb's ear) | 13. Scabiosa Fama White | 14. Scabiosa
Fama Blue
Did you know butterflies are also known as an indicator species?
An indicator species is sensitive to changes in the climate,
harmful chemicals, pollution in the air and water, and other
environmental issues. Unfortunately, butterfly and bee populations
are in decline due to humans reducing pollinators with pesticides
and destroying habitats and their nectar and pollen sources.
You can do a lot from home to help encourage these essential
pollinators, and we are here to help you create a bee and butterfly
haven. So, jump on board the bug-friendly garden wagon and
help to ensure the survival of bees and butterflies.
Bees love
water to cool
down their hive, so
make a bee bath (A) and
put it in a safe area, making
sure you add a few stones so
visiting bees won't drown.
ODE
The Bumblebee’s Tips
In summer, nectar stations are essential
to feed butterflies, hoverflies and beneficial
bees and wasps. Mix four parts hot water to one part
granulated sugar. Wait for the mixture to cool down, then fill
a bowl or nectar bowl. Again, make sure you add a few stones
so that they won't drown.
Make sure you mass plant the same flowers. Bees will work
on one spot for at least ten hours and collect from the same
flower/colour type. Butterflies also like to work from a group
of plants. Planting in groups of 3–5 is ideal.
Be aware: who
would have thought
that some organic
garden insecticides are very
toxic to bees and butterflies.
Ask us in-store about our safer
sprays and how to use them correctly.
Look for our safe bee icon in-store when
you shop for weed and insecticide sprays to know
they’re safe.
There are two types of plants: nectar sources for adult
butterflies to feed on, and host plants for female butterflies
to lay their eggs on.
For more plant selections, visit us in-store today.
9

Bee Kind
and welcome pollinators into your garden
As pollinators, bees, butterflies and insects
play an essential role in our gardens.
They transfer pollen from one flower to another, fertilising
plants so they start forming fruits and seeds. Seventy of
the top 100 most popular food crops are pollinated by
bees, and bees pollinate 80% of all flowering plants on
Earth! Unfortunately, bees, butterflies and other beneficial
insects are under increasing threat due to pesticides,
parasites and climate change – but we can help them by
using responsible gardening practices, planting flowers to
attract them, and sheltering them.
So, what can you do at home to help encourage these
essential pollinators to frequent your garden?
Plant flowers and beneficial plants: Bees are drawn
to bright colours, particularly blue, white and purple,
so planting bee-friendly flowers in your garden will
attract bees to your garden and provide them with the
pollen and nectar they need to survive. Flowers such as
borage, cornflowers, sunflowers, nemophila, lavender
and echinacea should see your garden become a hive of
activity. Beyond flowers, herbs such as basil and coriander
are also favourites.
Eliminate the use of harsh pesticides: Many common
plant pests can be managed using companion planting
and creating a favourable habitat for the beneficial insects.
If you must spray, look for bee-friendly insecticides, and
use them sparingly.
Provide shelter: Protect your bees from predators and
encourage them to stay in your garden by providing them
with a haven they can call home. Bees like to nestle into
small gaps and be protected from the rain.
Water: Just like any living organism, insects need water,
so supplying an insect-friendly water source in your
garden will help keep them hydrated during the summer.
Bees can’t swim, so include a little float for the bees and
butterflies to land on as they drink. A rock placed in a
shallow dish of water is a good idea.
With the world’s bee, insect and butterfly populations
needing protection, Mr Fothergill’s is focused on supporting
the bee and beneficial insect population to keep pollinating
our crops now and into the future. This spring, why not
brighten up your garden with a range of flowers and herbs
from Mr Fothergill’s Seeds. Whether it be Dwarf Sunflowers
or the colourful purple of echinacea, Mr Fothergill’s has
the range to keep your garden bright and your local bee
community buzzing!
10

Planting &
Feeding
Looking at the big picture
for backyard birdlife
As many New Zealanders begin to venture
out into the garden at this time of year, it's
the perfect time to plan planting while also
ensuring the local birdlife is well looked after.
Why feed birds in spring? With the apparent plant growth
and warmer temperatures, it's easy to think that birds have
an uncomplicated time after surviving the harsh winter.
However, the availability of natural food doesn't peak until
late summer and early autumn. They are hard-pressed to
find steady food sources, and New Zealand's native birds
benefit from additional support now as much as they do
in winter. That's because it's not just food on their minds.
This time of year birds require additional energy to defend
territories, find mates and evade predators.
There are many ways to provide this additional support for
birds, and by planting some of the natives below, you will
deliver an ongoing food source.
• The hardy Coprosma is an excellent place to start as it
produces a literal buffet for birds, with berries, flowers
and insects to feast on.
• The distinctive Ti Kouka (or cabbage tree) is another
good option, as birds love the cream-coloured flowers,
nectar and berries.
• Harakeke (New Zealand flax), as boisterous tūi are often
found feasting on this hardy plant's bright red flowers.
• The iconic Kōwhai. A mature tree will attract kererū, tūi
and bellbirds, each searching for the delicious nectar
found in the bright yellow flowers.
• Hebes are also important in the food
chain – these low-growers attract
insects that bring in the bellbirds,
fantails, and silvereyes.
It's not just the planting that helps attract wild birds.
For some birds, it can be challenging to find clean water.
Provided it is regularly cleaned, a big water dish offers
a great place to both dip and drink. This doesn't need to
be something too fancy – think function over fashion.
However, if this water is not regularly cleaned, harmful
bacteria can spread disease quickly. Any birdbath or
drinking station needs to be consistently checked.
"The more we feed, the more they breed…and that's
what we need."
Supplementing natural food sources with extra food
helps give birds the additional energy needed to defend
territories, find mates and evade predators.
Fresh fruit and Topflite’s energy food help to condition
birds ready for breeding. When birds know food sources
are abundant, it will trigger them to breed more readily.
Topflite Nectar provides plenty of goodness for native and
endemic birds, including tūi, bellbirds and silvereyes. The
sugar-based mix also includes pollen, honey powder and
a vitamin and mineral supplement. Topflite's energy
food with mealworms is also popular with bird
lovers and their high-flying friends
– the extra protein hit
helps boost nutrition
during the birds’
breeding
season.
11

The Picking Bed
My nana’s home was mostly about her garden, which was full of colour
and picking flowers. She would find a gap for any plant even though she
knew perfectly well she didn’t really have any room. Summer was such a
wonderful time in the garden, and the secateurs were always on standby,
ready for action. From garden to vase, we would fill every room in the house
with different shapes, colours and arrangements.
1 2 3 4
Annuals
1 Cosmos Pink Ice
To promote more flowers, focus on the
plant's shape by pinching out the stem
tips to create a bushy plant.
2 Zinnia Profusion Mixed
To get the most out of zinnia vase life, pick
the stems when the flowers are half-open.
3 Cineraria Silver Dust
Grown as a foliage filler in arrangements
and is long-lasting.
4 Queen Anne's Lace
Can be cut at multiple stages of growth.
Flowers also self-seed in the garden.
5 Antirrhinum Bubblegum
Snapdragons can last for up to 7–10 days in
a vase. Cut stems when flowers are tight.
6 Sweet Pea Unwin
Require a structure to grow up. Get them
into the garden in early spring for maximum
flowering performance.
5 6
ODE
The Bumblebee’s Tips
In the garden, deadheading old flowers is vital
for repeat flowering.
Oderings
Grown
Change your water every three days in cut flower
arrangements and keep them in a cooler area inside.
Make your flowers last longer by adding 1 Tbsp
of sugar, 2 Tbsp of lemon juice and 2 tsp of
bleach; mix well and add to your water.
12

Oderings
Grown
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.1
2.1
2.2
1.2 2
2.3
2.4
3
3
4 5
4 5
Shrubs
Perennials
1 Bracteantha
Also known as strawflower, this plant is popular for its
instant dried flowers. Cottage Lemon (1.1), Cottage Rose
(1.2) and Cottage White (1.3). Available mid-October
2 South African natives such as
Leucospermum (2.1), Protea (2.2),
Telopea (2.3) and Leucadendron (2.4)
These are some of the longest-flowering picking flowers
for vases; what is even better is that they dry exceptionally
well too.
3 Viburnum Opulus Snowball
Sphere-shaped flowers begin lime green and mature
to white. Available mid-October
4 Anigozanthos
Known as Kangaroo paw. It offers tall cut flowers,
which are long-lasting.
5 Phylica Pubescens
Used as a vase filler or a standalone in contemporary
displays. Suitable to dry.
1 Campanula Persicifolia Blue (1.1)
& Alba (1.2)
Ensure you pick your stems when the bottom two
flowers are open.
2 Gypsophila Repens White
If you love baby's breath but do not want to go to the
trouble of staking the traditional variety, try this miniature
option. Suitable for small mason jar arrangements and
for drying.
3 Echinops Ritro
The globe thistle flowers for two months when the plant is
mature. Leave some flowers on the plant for self-seeding.
4 Catananche Caerulea (Cupid's Dart)
Ideal in rockeries and cottage gardens, this is an excellent
cut flower.
5 Centaurea Montana (Mountain
Cornflower)
Very popular in rustic flower arrangements as it resembles
a wildflower.
13

ODERINGS-GROWN
Osteospermums
Osteospermums are vibrant plants for outdoor summer performance, with colourful
flowers on neat, compact plants. Osteospermums will attract an abundance of bees and
butterflies that will make your garden a hive of activity. Brighten your garden or pots this
spring with a selection of new and popular varieties.
RETRO SERIES
A superb groundcover with large, daisy-like
flowers and a vibrant display of colour, which
will impress the most avid gardener. Available
mid-October
Retro Orange
Beautiful burnt sunset orange flowers, which
deepen and fade to a lipstick pink eye and
green centre.
Retro Yellow
Stunning bright sun-yellow flowers deepen and
fade to a purple eye and green centre.
Retro Pink
Our personal favourite! Vivid flowers have
shades of rose pink, some with striping, which
fade to deep-purple or white eyes and black
centres.
NEW
2021
14

oderings 1.indd 1
11/08/2021 2:21:40 PM
Oderings
Exclusive
POP UP SERIES
Unique because of the gorgeous double flowers with
surrounding petals in a lighter colour and prominent, deeper
coloured centres. The pompom flowers are much larger than
standard Osteospermums, making them genuinely pop!
1. Pop Up Blue Moon
White outer petals intensifying to silver-blue inner petals.
2. Pop Up Purple
Outside purple petals intensifying to deep purple inner petals.
3. Pop Up Buttercream
White outer petals intensifying to creamy yellow inner petals.
4. Pop Up Pink
Pink outside petals fading with maturity, intensifying to deep
pink inner petal.
1
2
RUBY RED
The world’s first red Osteospermum, with bright rubyred
flowers blooming up to 8 cm in diameter. The large,
colourful flowers sit on top of the dark green foliage,
providing a display similar to a bouquet.
Oderings
Exclusive
3
4
Products that make
indoor pot
planting easy
MADE IN NEW ZEALAND
INDOOR POT
POUCH SHAPED LINERS
Free drainage and there is is a size
for every shape and size pot
Minis 3pk - Sm 2pk - Med 2pk- Lge 1pk
POTSAK FILL SOLD SEPARATELY
*All pouches come with a wicker
string for water transfer
“When you
have a
PotSak
in your
indoor pot,
you don’t
need a hole
in your pot
or a saucer”
100%
REUSABLE

Houseplants
Water Propagation
16

Who isn't guilty of creating a congregation
of glass gherkin jars that slowly overrun the
kitchen bench because you couldn't throw
precious houseplant tendrils into the bin
from the last pruning session?
We've fallen victim to the propagation plight too, but with
our contemporary propagation stations, we can help keep
your propagation stations in order. Read on to begin your
water propagation basics and cross the finish line by
transplanting your cuttings into a 9 cm pot.
WATER PROPAGATING
1. Fill your vessels with tepid, filtered water.
2. Select your plant material with at least two to six nodes
depending on the plant type.
3. Using sharp snips, make the cutting at a 45° angle just
below a leaf node.
4. When creating multiple cuttings from the same plant,
ensure these are uniform in height to create ease when
potting on.
5. Ensure no leaves are submerged in water.
6. Change water every five days.
7. Bright to medium indirect lighting is best.
WORDS OF WISDOM
Hydration – Never take cuttings from a thirsty specimen.
Your cuttings will produce thin, small leaves.
Variegation – Is a cell mutation within a plant that creates
different coloured areas on the leaves. Variegation is
primarily genetic, which means the plant should keep
its pattern when forming new leaves from your cutting.
However, don't be disappointed if it reverts to green; this
can occur in cuttings as the plant is in survival mode
attempting to produce roots. Restart with a new cutting
if this happens.
Be patient – Some plants will develop roots within
a week, while others will take months. You will find
hardwood houseplants types such as Ficus robusta and
Ficus lyrata will take longer to root.
Cleanliness – When collecting material, be aware of sap.
Some plant sap is so strong it sets like glue, which can't
be removed from benchtops or clothing. Never allow the
water to become murky in a cutting vessel.
Quality – Our growers always say, 'If you take a cutting
from a poor plant, you will get a poor result'. Always
inspect the plant you are taking the material from.
Ensure it's free of pests and disease and the overall
health is top-notch.
POTTING ON
When your propagation vessels are swimming with roots,
you know it's time to pot on.
1. We know you are excited to pot and see your cutting
develop, but patience is key. You cannot plant it into its
'forever pot'. A 9 cm pot is the starting point, and you
then pot into the next size as its roots develop. In a small
pot, you reduce potential root rot from overwatering.
2. Don't be fooled; when planting into a larger pot, you slow
down the growth rate.
3. Rooting hormone is not required; it can cause shock to
the water roots. Planting direct into the soil is advised.
4. Select a soft soil to suit the plant type. This helps to
ease the cutting into its unfamiliar environment. Options
are 50:50 potting mix combined with coir/fern fibre or
50:50 cacti mix and coir/fern fibre for plants that prefer
free drainage.
5. Plant two or three stems into the same pot to create
a dense plant (except for hardwood plants that you
would plant singly). Only submerge the stems into the
pot and never cover the leaves of the cutting; this can
cause rotting.
6. Water before the soil completely dries out. Depending
on the plant type, you will see leaf growth in 2–4 weeks.
Within 2–3 months, you will be able to transplant into
a 10cm–12cm pot using a quality houseplant potting mix.
17

The Cactus
Collection
If you have an extra sunny spot and don't
know what to fill it with, cacti are your solution.
A cactus collection will thrive on neglect and
will not fail you even in the hottest areas of
your home, so read on to become a good
cactus parent.
Lighting
If you're wondering why your cacti has thin, elongated
growth and is pale in colour, this is called etiolation.
Etiolation occurs in cacti when they are not getting
adequate light: it makes the plant look stretched,
deformed, and dull. Before you commit to a collection
of cacti, check you have very bright light available.
Cacti can tolerate sunny windowsills all year long.
Watering
Understanding how your cacti survive in the wild may
help you to care for your cacti at home. In their natural
habitat, cacti can survive without two years of rainfall.
This is because most of the plant is made up of water
it collects when it rains, and stores inside the plant and in
the roots. Cacti also have a thick, waxy outer skin, which
acts as a cooling barrier on hot days to minimise water
loss. To imitate this at home, water directly onto the soil
surface for the roots to take up the water, allowing the soil
to dry out between watering. Consistent wet soil will cause
a rapid death rate, and there is no coming back from an
overwatered cactus. Dress the top of the soil with Yates
Gnat Barrier. This fine pumice will allow the water to drain
away rapidly as it would for cacti in the wild.
Pests
Mealybug is the biggest problem for your spikey friends.
Mealybug is a challenge to identify and often mistaken for
the glochids and areoles (basically the spines and bumps
that grow the prickles) on the cacti. Because these areas
are fluffy, just like mealybug, the bugs are often disguised
and easy to miss. Diligent and regular inspections are
advised. Mealybugs also hide under the plant base where
it meets the soil; therefore, we highly recommended you
repot using Yates Thrive Cacti & Succulent Potting Mix.
If you prefer to make your own, you can create your soil
with 50:50 Oderings Potting & Basket Mix with Egmont
Coarse & Fine Pumice.
Mealybug Treatment: Spot treatment with meths or neem
oil. Using a cotton bud, dip it in the meths or neem oil and
apply directly to the mealybug.
Repotting
Cacti are constantly in survival mode, which is
why they are such slow growers. Having no leaves
also slows the growth because cacti have a small amount
of chlorophyll. Without getting into a science lesson, this
is the chemical that converts sunlight into energy.
The more of this chemical your plant has, the quicker it
grows. It would be best if you repotted your cacti every
two years as you may only see a few centimetres of
growth each year. You should only ever jump up to a pot
size that's 1–2 cm larger than the existing pot to minimise
any potential root rot. If you can get your hands on
terracotta pots, they are more breathable than plastic
pots and help the plant dry out quicker.
Feeding
Lastly, your cacti do not require a lot of food. A cactus
fertiliser spike can be inserted and forgotten about.
Push the spike down into the potting mix midway
between the plant and pot edge until the spike is
above the surface. When you water your plant,
the food will release slowly into the soil for
the plant to absorb.
18

Air
plants
Who doesn't adore a low-maintenance
plant? Tillandsias are epiphytes that grow
on another object or plant. The root system
of an epiphyte is used for attaching the
plant rather than absorbing nutrients or
water. Air plants rely on moisture in the
environment to grow and thrive.
Because air plants don't need soil, you can get creative.
Forage at the beach and create a sandy open terrarium
or admire your plant by mounting it onto driftwood.
Temperature and lighting
Indirect bright to indirect medium light is ideal for
air plants. Air plants are hardy but keep them away
from frost.
Feeding
Mist your air plant with Gro-sure Orchid Mist 'n' Feed for
a gentle feed three times in the growing season. While
the orchid food does have flowering properties, be
patient if you want blooms. Air plants can take years to
flower, and some only flower once in their lifetime.
Watering
Air plants do not live off the air; they do
need moisture to survive. Air plants have
trichomes, which are tiny hairs on their leaves,
and they appreciate a twice-weekly mist.
However, depending on your home's temperature
and humidity, a soak once a fortnight in water
for 30 minutes is essential to combat the extent
to which heat pumps and fires dry out the air. If you
want to be an extra good air plant parent, use room
temperature rainwater or water that has sat out for a
few days for the chlorine to evaporate. You can tell you
have overwatered your air plant if it remains a dull grey
colour for an extended period.
19

1 2 3
4
5
8
9
11
Trailing
houseplants
12 13
20

6
7
5
10
1. Rhipsalis Baccifera 'Spaghetti'
2. Epipremnum 'Pothos N'Joy'
3. Zebrina Tradescantia 'Spiderwort'
4. Peperomia Incana
5. Epipremnum 'Pothos Marble Queen'
6. Philodendron Cordatum 'Heart Leaf'
7. Scindapsus Pictus 'Argyraeus' / 'Satin Pothos'
8. Epipremnum Aureum 'Devils Ivy'
9. Peperomia Prostrata 'String of Turtles'
10. Peperomia Puteolata 'Parallel'
11. Ficus Tineke
12. Saxifraga Green 'Mother of Thousands'
13. Philodendron Erubescens 'Pink Princess'
14. Peperomia Ginny 'Tri Colour'
5
Range seen is available from mid-October
14
21

Oderings
Exclusive
Pots
Handpicked cover pots selected by fellow
houseplant enthusiasts. We brighten up your
summer collection with a mixture of new
colours and styles and bring back the classics.
Must-have coloured pots this season include
raspberry, rust and green.
22

Elho
Creating Beauty
from Waste
Elho pots are designed with nature in mind, and nature-friendly
products are often hard to find, especially with pots. Their purpose
is to bring nature to the place that you call home, every day!
Nature starts with plants, and in a home, a plant
begins with the right pot. The team at Elho take pots
very seriously and have done since 1964. The Dutch
designers create the most beautiful pots, in line with
the latest colour and design trends. They are constantly
looking for new possibilities and intelligent solutions so
that you can surround yourself with nature with as little
effort as possible. Because that doesn't just make you
happy; your plants and the environment will love you for
it as well.
Creating Beauty from Waste
At Elho, 8,400,000 kilos of waste per year becomes
beauty – the team love waste! It's not something that
people often want more of, but Elho can't get enough of
it when it comes to recycling. They call it the beauty of
waste, with 80% of the materials currently used being
recycled plastic. Not only have they turned 8,400,000
kilos of recycled plastic into their pots in the past year,
everything they make is also recyclable, including their
packaging.
Join Elho on a Green Journey
• Elho is a family-owned company in the Netherlands that
has been the leading innovator in the synthetic pottery
market for more than 55 years. The pots are brought to
NZ by another family-owned company, Willow Avenue
Ltd. Supporting nature using sustainable technology, the
Elho business is powered by wind energy. Elho realise
how important bees are to our environment. They have
2,000,000 of their own in their backyard producing honey.
• Made using 100% wind energy produced by
the windmills in their backyard.
• No more waste; all the pots are 100%
recyclable.
• Elho aims for more! Already 80% of
the materials are made of recycled
plastics. The Green Basics range is
made using 100% recycled plastic.
• Long-lasting colour and quality.
23

CREATING THE DECK
OF YOUR DREAMS
With warmer weather, are your thoughts turning to outdoor
entertaining and living? With a clever design, adding a new decking
area can create an attractive and practical space for entertaining
and relaxing that will add value to your property, create
indoor-outdoor flow and maximise your floor area.
1 2 3
24

CONSULT | DESIGN | MAINTAIN
CREATE | LIVE
DOES YOUR GARDEN MATCH YOUR LIFESTYLE?
Oderings Landscaping make homes complete,
with unique solutions to reflect you, incorporating
insightful planting combined with inspiring design.
021 913 747
admin@oderingslandscaping.co.nz
www.oderingslandscaping.co.nz
Oderings Landscaping is based in Christchurch and
is not currently available in our North Island stores.
Whether you are installing new decking as an extension
from indoor living spaces, surrounding your spa or pool
area, or as an entranceway to your home, there are many
things to consider when selecting a material. There are so
many material options available that it can be challenging
to know what to choose! Considerations will include
budget, environment, ongoing maintenance, where your
deck is positioned and how you will use it.
1. Timber decking
Timeless classics, locally grown pine and macrocarpa are
top choices and the most cost-effective option in decking
materials. Sustainably grown, they have less impact on the
environment, and with annual maintenance, these decks
maintain tip-top condition. Cleaning down your deck with
an appropriate deck cleaning solution and re-staining will
mean your deck lasts longer.
Other timber options include hardwoods such as Kwila,
Garapa, Garrah, and Purple Heart, which are much
stronger than pine, and less likely to warp over time.
Kwila is one of the best performing hardwoods for New
Zealand conditions. Hardwoods are generally much more
expensive than softwoods and are also less sustainable.
Like softwoods, annual maintenance will ensure you get
a long-lasting deck. Use a stiff brush and deck cleaning
solution to clean away the buildup of dirt and natural resins
that have leached. Re-oiling your deck will help protect the
timber and bring out its natural colour and beauty.
2. Composite decking
Composite decking has recently gained popularity as the
technology has ensured it has become more resistant to
the damage caused by high UV levels in New Zealand.
Made with recycled wood and recycled plastic, it provides
a natural-looking product that is virtually maintenance-free,
requiring no regular staining or oiling.
Composite decking is available in various colours,
meaning you can better select a product to blend with
your building and surroundings. Composite decking is
more expensive than using natural timber; however,
coupled with its longevity, it is still a reasonably costeffective
option in the long term. Watch your feet
though; in comparison to timber decking the surface of
composite decking can heat up in hot weather, causing
discomfort if walking on it in bare feet.
3. Bamboo
Bamboo is a newcomer to the decking market and
not as readily sourced as timber or composites.
It has gained popularity due to being one of the most
renewable plant sources on the market. Bamboo reaches
maturity in as little as five years, with the wood being
harvested repeatedly from the same plant. It becomes
a durable decking material and, like composite decking,
has little to no need for ongoing maintenance.
Optional extras
With the addition of seating and strategically placed
lighting, a cleverly designed deck will create an addition
to your home living spaces, creating an ‘outdoor room’.
Building a pergola or louvre system above your deck
will keep you sheltered from the sun and rain, meaning
you can entertain in all weathers. The addition of oriental
trellis panelling or carefully selected plants will add
privacy and shelter from prevailing winds.
With so many options on the market and the
investment involved, it pays to get in the experts.
At Oderings Landscaping, we have the know-how,
from design through to construction, to install a deck
that is not only fit for purpose but looks great too.
Get in touch today for a free measure and quote at
admin@oderingslandscaping.co.nz. T&Cs apply.
25

LAWN WEEDS
Even expert gardeners can find it hard to know how to attack weeds
in the lawn. However, preventing weeds is essential to keep your
lawn grass in good health. This is done by feeding the lawn two
to three times a year with a quality lawn fertiliser such as
Oderings Lawn Replenish or LawnPro 7 Day Green.
1
1 1 1
1 1
2 1
3 2
4
THE KIWICARE GUIDE TO WEED KILLERS
There are two general types of weeds in lawns: broadleaf
weeds (not grasses) and grass weeds (grass other than
your lawn grass). To effectively get rid of these two types of
weeds, there are two types of weed killers (herbicides).
Selective herbicides remove some weed species but leave
others unaffected; these types of sprays are often used on
lawns to kill broadleaf weeds but not the grass.
Non-selective herbicides will kill most plants they come
into contact with; they kill the grass and broadleaf weeds
and may harm other plants through spray drift. So the only
way to kill grass weeds and not your lawn with this type of
herbicide is to spot treat the weeds.
LAWN WEED GUIDE
Follow this Kiwicare guide for easy identification of lawn
weeds. Then, if you require further help on either weeds or
their treatment, bring your weeds into us at Oderings.
• BROADLEAF WEEDS
When spraying for broadleaf weeds, use a selective lawn
herbicide such as LawnPro Turfclean Ultra. This will kill the
weeds in the lawn but not the grass. These sprays will also
harm other plants they come into contact with, so don’t
spray on a windy day.
1. Catsear – This is similar and often confused with
dandelion. It’s a perennial weed with upright yellow flowers,
and its presence in the lawn often indicates a lack of
nutrients in the soil.
2. Chamomile – Some people love it, and some hate it.
Chamomile has delicate needle-like leaves and white flowers.
3. Chickweed – With bright shiny leaves, distinctive hairy
stems and small white flowers.
4. Clover – Is a perennial weed that is low growing and
found in most lawns. Regular watering in the summer
months helps weaken the weed.
5. Creeping Oxalis – This oxalis is a hard-to-kill
perennial weed with small yellow flowers, which thrives
in New Zealand lawns. A regular spray program with a
hydrocotyle spray is the best way to kill this weed.
6. Dandelions – This broadleaf perennial weed dies
down in the winter and reappears in the spring.
A reasonably easy weed to eliminate, but more
established dandelions may need a repeat application.
7. Daisy – A common weed that is easily identified by
its white flower with a yellow centre. It prefers to grow in
a damp shady lawn.
8. Dock – Has a large taproot and is difficult to kill.
If the lawn is kept dense, it makes it hard for the dock
to establish. Repeated spraying with high-concentrate
sprays may be needed.
9. Hydrocotyle – Several different species can cause
a significant problem in the lawn, especially since many
weed sprays won’t kill hydrocotyle. Incorporating lime
fertiliser once a year is essential and will help when
incorporated with a spray program.
10. Moss, Algae, Liverwort, Lichens – The growth of
these weeds is caused by the lawn being too wet, not
having enough drainage, having too much shade or a
combination of these factors. Sprays will kill the moss, but
unless you remove the cause, the moss will come back.
26

11. Onehunga Weed – Prickle Weed – Onehunga is an annual weed
with yellow flowers and prickly seeds. Once plants have flowered (in
October generally), they have set their seed for next year. The only
way to eventually eliminate this weed is to spray before they flower
and then again in November for two years in a row.
12. Oxalis – This type of oxalis is a bulb and is hard to kill. The
problem with oxalis is that once you spray the plants, they drop their
baby bulbs, which then start to grow. You must respray when you
see the oxalis starting to reappear; otherwise, you give the baby
bulbs time to get big and have more babies, which takes you back
to where you started.
1
2
5
1
2
6
13. Thistles – These prickly customers are well known.
14. Wireweed and Willow weed – These annual summer weeds
establish fast in spring, in wet soils. You will often find them
establishing by paths or areas where damage is caused by walking.
This weed is commonly also found near your veggie patch, so the
best control is to dig it out while young.
1
7
1
8
• GRASS WEEDS
Unfortunately, since selective lawn herbicides do not affect grass
weeds, the only control is a non-selective herbicide. Non-selective
herbicides will kill everything they come into contact with; therefore,
you should only spot treat your lawn unless you want to kill the
whole thing!
15. Couch – You may also know couch as twitch, dog grass or
summer grass. It will go dormant over the winter with the cold but
will resurface in the warmer months.
1
2
9
3
10
16. Paspalum – Causes problems in lawns all over New Zealand,
especially in summer when it produces its large seed heads.
Paspalum can easily grow to 30 cm in lawns even when it has been
mowed. It also grows best in the summer and becomes almost
dormant in the winter.
17. Poa – A common annual grass that appears as clumps of
a different colour in the lawn.
Other coarse grasses – Other grass species may appear in your
lawn and look unsightly due to their different appearance compared
to your lawn grass.
1
2
11
1
2
12
For coarse grasses in lawns – Spot treat by applying a nonselective
weedkiller such as Weed Weapon Rapid Action or
a glyphosate gel to the central growing crowns. Spray carefully
or alternatively, use gel; apply the gel directly to the centre of the
weed; you get no spray drift, no runoff, and it won’t kill your
surrounding plants.
The Kiwicare website is a helpful resource for identifying lawn weeds
– kiwicare.co.nz
1
2
13
1
14
Our favourite broadleaf weed lawn herbicides from
Kiwicare, which between them will fix almost all
broadleaf weeds, are:
15
1 3
2
16
17
27

®
JOIN THE ORGANIC REVOLUTION
Organic Crop Protectants (OCP) is a revolution in organic technology, and works alongside nature to enhance garden
ecology - without the use of synthetic chemicals. Created nearly 30 years ago to service organic commercial growers in
Australia, OCP launched Slasher Organic Weedkiller into New Zealand last Spring. This October we’re bringing the next
batch of long awaited OCP Australian favourites to Kiwi organic home gardeners! Get on top of your plant feeding plus
help control pests and diseases with our plant food, insecticides and fungicides for organic gardeners.
Slasher®
ORGANIC* WEEDKILLER
EFFECTIVE
GLYPHOSATE FREE
ORGANIC*
ACTIVE MADE FROM
NATURAL PLANT OILS
VISIBLE
RESULTS WITHIN
1 HOUR
ON MOST WEEDS
*BioGro certified for use in organic gardens. Approved for use in
controlling weed, moss & algae in gardens, paths, driveways, around
buildings and spot spraying in lawns.
Do NOT use Slasher Organic Weedkiller around edible plants.
eco-neemTM
ORGANICˆ BOTANICAL INSECTICIDE
Controls a broad range of 16 insects including
mites, whitefl y, caterpillars, aphids, thrips,
grass grub beetle, psyllid and more on
ornamental and edible plants
A patented water-extraction process is used to
enhance its performance
BioGro certifi ed for use in organicˆ gardens
Safe for benefi cial insects, including bees
eco-oilTM
ORGANICˆ INSECT SPRAY
100% plant-based spraying oil –
contains no petroleum based oils
Controls a broad range of problem
insects including mealybugs, black
scale and citrus leafminer on certain
citrus, vegie and ornamental plants
HIPPO ENHANCED - Attracts good
(benefi cial) bugs into your garden
BioGro certifi ed for use in organicˆ gardens
eco-aminogroTM
ORGANICˆ FERTILISER
A rich organicˆ fertiliser
derived from digested
marine waste
Healthier plant growth
results in bigger fl owers
and more fruit
eco-fungicideTM
ORGANICˆ FUNGICIDE
Controls powdery mildew, black spot
and rust on plants including tomatoes,
zucchini and roses
Perfect as a two-in-one insecticide and
fungicide. Simply add the eco-oil to the
eco-fungicide concentrate and spray
BioGro certifi ed for use in organicˆ
gardens
Head to ecoorganicgarden.co.nz for organic gardening tips & to learn more about OCP
ˆBioGro certifi ed for use in organic gardens
Slasher and the OCP Drop Device are registered trademarks and eco-neem, eco-oil, eco-aminogro and eco-fungicide are trade marks of Organic Crop Protectants
6047

EXOTIC GARDENING
WITH PALMS
Palms are making a resurgence in the home garden thanks to their exotic
appearance. They make an excellent subtropical addition to your garden
and are hardier than you think. We have sourced these palms from a
grower who grows them outside exposed to the elements; therefore, they
are hardened off and can withstand immediate exposure in your backyard.
OUR TOP PICKS
Trachycarpus fortunei | Chinese windmill palm
This is the hardiest palm for New Zealand and is not
only suitable for your yard but also for coastal areas. It
also tolerates wind and has the bonus attribute of being
tolerant to frost and snow. This palm features lush,
dark green, fan-shaped leaves. Suitable in
pots for up to 5 years; however, in 10
years, it can reach 8 m tall. Ideal for
both North and South Island.
Livistona decora | Australian
ribbon fan palm
Similar to the Australian cabbage
palm but features slimmer greygreen
leaves, and a slender trunk.
Frost, cold, wind-resistant, and
prefers full sun.
Ideal for North and South Island.
GARDENING TIP
Your soil must not waterlog.
Ensure you provide the
planting hole with gypsum
and drainage substrates
if required.
Chamaedorea plumosa | Miniature queen palm
The perfect palm if you need a smaller feature tree or filler in
the garden as it only reaches 3 m in height and a maximum
of 6 m in 10 years. Leaves will eventually drop, creating a
revealed trunk. This palm is not clumping. In the first three
years, frost protection is needed as it is sensitive to
cold. Suitable for North Island areas.
Rhopalostylis sapida | NZ native Nikau palm
An iconic native known for its upright
'shuttlecock’ exotic appearance, making it
perfect for tropical gardens. Nikau are best
planted in well-drained sites and clustered
in groups. In the first three years, use frost
protection as they are sensitive to cold. If in
a high wind zone, place a windbreak barrier
while your nikau get established. Plant in part
shade. Suitable for North Island only.
Palms suitable for North Island: Ceroxylon quindiuense, Caryota
maxima himalaya, Hedyscepe canterburyana, Dypsis baronii,
Ceroxylon quindiuense, Chamaedorea plumosa, Chamaedorea
woodsoniana, Wallichia oblongifolia and Rhapis excelsa "Taiwan".
Palms suitable for South & North Island: Rhopalostylis cheesemanii,
Livistona chinensis, Livistona australis, Chamaerops cerifera,
Livistona decora, Archontophoenix cunninghamiana, Trachycarpus
fortunei, Rhapis excelsa "Taiwan" and Trachycarpus oreophilus.
29

Pratia Angulata
This NZ native groundcover is quick to establish
and is smothered in flowers over an incredibly
long flowering season from late spring to autumn.
It does very well in the shade and can tolerate sun
if the soil is well worked to keep hydrated. This
groundcover has a spreading habit; therefore,
edging must be maintained to stop it spreading
into unwanted areas.
2x80cm
40cm
Walkable
Can you imagine surrounding your
stepping stones with carpets of
walkable greenery, or enriching the
side of your house or the mundane
washing line area by turning it into
a green space filled with sprawling
groundcovers?
Whether you surround stepping stones, plant in between
bricks or amongst stony pathways, groundcovers are
perfect for suppressing weeds, are cost-effective compared
to hardscaping and provide an opportunity to add a few
NZ native plants into your garden.
Groundcovers require free-draining soils as they mostly
have shallow root systems. A decent potting mix is needed
to get them established, but if you keep them hydrated
during summer they will become low maintenance.
Here are our favourite walkable groundcovers, which
are best with light foot traffic.
KEY
Full
Sun
Full Sun/
Part Shade
Height
by Width
Space
Apart
Well
Drained
Spreading
NZ
Native
Edible
30
All available from early-October onwards.

Acaena Purpurea
Add colour with this purple NZ native
groundcover. Best in full sun or part
shade, as the vibrancy dulls when
planted in full shade. When the plant
dries out, the leaves can become
bleached, so plant in well-worked soil.
Thyme Creeping
This multipurpose perennial not
only fills a space but can be used in
cooking. A great option if you have
limited root space. White flowers
appear in summer.
Scleranthus Biflorus
The moss lookalike! Scleranthus is
a low-maintenance spreader that
offers varying mound heights as
it grows. For the plant to grow in a
tight habit, full sun is essential.
2x80cm
40cm
5x30cm
40cm
5x40cm
30cm
Groundcovers
Dichondra Emerald Green
and Silver Falls
These multi-purpose perennials are often used to flow
down pots and hanging baskets. Their shallow root systems
also make them ideal as groundcovers. Once established,
little maintenance is required. In cooler climates, this plant
becomes dormant and bounces back in late spring.
Leptinella Platts Black
A popular NZ native with small fern-like leaves,
which become a dense, colourful mat. Leptinella is
very versatile as it can be planted in the sun or part
shade. Ensure you plant into moist, well-drained soil to
prevent browning off during the summer months.
2x80cm
40cm
5x80cm
40cm
31

Moveable Gardens
Moveable gardens are portable, and ideal for people with
patios, who live in rentals, are short on space, or would like
to move their garden to follow the sun. Moveable gardens
are ideal for colour, but they are also brilliant for growing
edible crops. Why not do a mixture of colour and crops
to attract the bees to pollinate the edibles. The sky is the
limit with portable gardens; whether you DIY your planter
box and add wheels or buy something ready to go like
Vegepods and Elho Grow Tables, having a garden even in
the smallest space is easily achievable.
What to Use
Portable spaces can be filled with flowers and edibles, and
often it is a collection of pots or upcycled wooden crates,
baskets or wooden pallets that are turned into planter
beds or a vertical wall for plants to grow in. Otherwise,
people purchase portable garden beds, and we love how
easily the Vegepods and Elho Tables with lids provide
ready-to-use growing spaces.
Things to Consider
Container gardening is quite different to traditional ground
planting. A container has limited soil; this limits root
space for plants, needs careful watering and requires
supplementary fertiliser after a while. You also need to
select the right plants for the space. Consider how big the
plant wants to grow before making your selection and
think about how much sun the area gets. If you aren’t sure
what to plant, pop in and see us; we would love to help.
Add Wheels & Cages
A simple way to make more of your portable garden is
to add wheels. This means you can wheel it to a hose or
follow the light. Cages or obelisks are also a great thing to
incorporate, and they will add height and dimension to an
otherwise flat space.
Add Water
How will you get water to your space? Do you have access
to a hose or outdoor tap? When planting your moveable
garden, consider adding water-saving products into the
soil; we love Saturaid as it reduces water use by up to
50%. If you haven’t seen the solar-powered water timer
from Gardena, it is fantastic and will work even when you
are away on holiday. It doesn’t need a hose or tap to work;
it just uses a bucket of water. Please have a look at our
website to find out more.
Feeding
Plants get all their nutrients from the soil; quality soil
ensures quality plants, so don’t take the cheap option.
If you are buying quality, you shouldn’t need to fertilise
for another six months. What you plant will determine
what you feed with. A great all-rounder for ornamentals
is Oderings Total Replenish; this lasts in the soil for six
months. Otherwise, if you have edibles, I recommend
OceanFert. This is a slow-release fertiliser made from
seaweed species. Other seaweed brands are health tonics,
not fertilisers.
32

Growing Vegetables
The Easy Way
If recent times have taught us anything, it's the value
of resourcefulness, looking after our health and having
a home that feels like a haven. If you are looking for an
easier way to grow your vegetables and herbs sustainably
at home, here are some tips!
OPTIMISE SPACE
If you don't have much space in your garden or only have
paved areas, a container garden like the Vegepod is a
perfect way to add some beautiful greenery, herbs, or
veggies into your outdoor space. Even if you have ample
green space, a container garden can be one of the best
ways to plant herbs and vegetables – or even flowers,
without having to dig up your yard. Just make sure you
position the garden in a sunny spot as plants need light
to grow!
RAISE IT UP
Having a raised garden up off the ground saves your back
and knees from the strain of gardening at ground level.
If you want the luxury of waist-high gardening with no
bending over, the Vegepod stands are ideal.
COVER THE CROP
When you lift your garden off the ground, it is harder for
crawling critters to reach your plants. However, the best
way to stop pests is to cover your produce to keep out
the cats, birds, and bugs, eliminating the need for sprays,
giving you wholesome, organic harvests. Covers can also
create a microclimate (a bit like a greenhouse), so early
planting is okay, and the strict rules of planting seasons
don't have to be followed as carefully. This is great if you
want more out of your growing seasons or are a beginner
gardener.
REDUCE WATERING REQUIREMENTS
Many of us are unsure of how much we need to water
our vegetable patch, or forget to water when life gets
busy or we go away on holiday! Vegepods have an inbuilt
self-watering system, so you won't accidentally water
too much or too little. With irrigation from above and
the wicking system below, your plants will be perfectly
watered all year round. There are also drainage and
overflow holes to prevent flooding of the soil.
MAKE IT MOBILE
If you have limited space, and want the flexibility to move
your vegetable patch around, maybe to follow the sun, the
Vegepod wheel trolleys are very handy. Vegepods can be
moved, replaced, or shifted to another location without
any hassle. This mobility is great for evolving gardens and
gardeners who rent or plan to move house one day!
33

BOOST THE GROWTH
IN YOUR GARDEN
Humate is the purest form of natural organic
matter known to man and one of the most
complex substances on earth. Formed from
the biological and chemical breakdown of
animal and plant life, humates make up about
75% of the organic matter that exists in most
mineral soils.
Humate results from millions of years of broken down
forest residue and is found in a seam above coal and
below peat. Widely regarded as up to 20 times more
potent than regular compost, humate has many positive
attributes. Humates are an organic-rich source of energy,
carbon and beneficial bacteria, which aid overall plant
health and provide natural protection against plant pests.
As a result, they're a safe, organic addition to crops of any
size or home gardens.
Plants grown in soil rich with humic substances produce
higher yields, provide better nutrition and are less prone to
stress than plants grown in soils lacking humate. Humate
also significantly improves soil quality and makes lockedup
minerals and nutrients and all the trace elements
essential for good plant health available to the plant roots.
For a concentrated humate product, look at the Premium
Organic Humate Ultra-Concentrated Compost.
Other products with humate blends, both liquids and
powders, are:
Growth Booster Sheep Pellets – Sheep pellets with 20%
humate blended in with them, making them easier and
quicker to break down and have the carbon available
to feed the microbes. Basically, you are getting all the
goodies of the sheep manure plus the humate! Another
great benefit of Growth Booster is that the carbon in the
humate soaks up the lanolin smell of the sheep manure,
eliminating the majority of the odour and making it a lot
more pleasant to apply.
Organic Turbo Garden Blend – Combines three products
- humate, vermicast, and an NPK mix with trace elements.
This is an excellent all-round fertiliser.
Humate Liquid – Also very popular. This is made up using
organic humate and is BioGro certified. There are many
uses for this product, including foliar feeding and soil
drenching, and it is excellent for soaking plant roots before
planting.
Visit www.davesgardenproducts.co.nz for further
information and to read some excellent testimonials.
34

Benchtop
Composting
Benchtop bokashi bins are a great option
if you want to get into composting but don't
know where to start or don’t have room
in your garden. They are also an excellent
option for the environmentally conscious.
ODE
The Bumblebee’s Tips
Food scraps placed in our landfills are harming the
environment with the release of methane gases. The
general composting process decreases that dramatically
but the bokashi technique decreases those gases even
further. The methane-producing microbes will not
live in this system as the pH is low, making this bin an
incredibly environmentally friendly product. Your plants
will love it, and so will the environment.
This system is compact but holds a massive 14 litres
worth of scraps (larger than your household bucket),
and it will transform all your food waste. Unlike traditional
composting, the Bokashi system can also compost
items including cooked food, meat, fish and cheese.
Bokashi is a Japanese term meaning ‘fermented organic
matter’. The airtight sealing system ensures that the
fermentation process uses the Bokashi bacteria as a
compost activator and has been specifically designed
to initiate the breakdown of organic waste in the home.
Because the fermentation process is
relatively quick, it's a good idea to have two
units as it only takes about three weeks to
complete the process, depending on the
size of your scraps.
Bokashi products are generally pleasant smelling, so
you can keep the units on the bench or under the sink.
Using the compost accelerator spray will speed up the
fermentation of organic matter. Once treated in the
composter, the material can then be safely dug into your
garden. It also features a tap, making it easy to decant
the liquid fertiliser concentrate, which is then diluted into
a nutrient-dense liquid food for the garden.

Potatoes
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
There are certain questions that we get
asked each year by potato growers, novice
or experienced.
Do I need to chit my spuds?
Yes, it is to give them a head start. This normally takes 2–3
weeks. If the sprouts are white, they don’t have enough light;
they should be a dark purple colour. Chit on a windowsill or
other lighted area but not in direct sunlight.
How do I grow potatoes in pots?
Easily done: combine garden soil, compost and potato
fertiliser in a pot. Fill the container to 2/3 full, place the spuds,
then fill the remainder of the pot. Don’t fill quite to the top so
you can create a water reservoir. Remember to feed regularly
and water daily once growing. Once you have waited your
number of days (depends on the variety you use), tip the pot
over and voila, you have spuds.
How do I grow potatoes in the garden?
Dig a trench 40 cm deep. Add a handful of potato fertiliser
per metre length of trench. Add 5 cm of compost and then
place the spud on top. Backfill the trench with more compost
mixed with garden soil.
In the garden do I need to mound the soil?
Yes, you do. This stops the new potatoes getting burnt by
the sun and stops nasty pests from attacking. You can
either mound potatoes at the time of planting by making a
30–40 cm mound, or the traditional way is every time the
potato shoots reach 15 cm tall, pile more soil 10 cm up the
shoot. You then repeat this step until maturity. See diagram.
A late frost caught me. How do I save my crop?
There is not much you can do, but the problem is that when
the sun hits the leaves it burns them, which kills the plant. So,
before the sun comes out, try to save the leaves by covering
them with newspaper. Once the frost on the leaves has
melted, remove the paper.
What are these holes in my spuds?
Once you have harvested you may notice little holes in your
spuds. This is from wire worm (which can also affect carrots).
Nothing much you can do for it this season, but you will need
to stop it for next year. You need to plant the green crop
mustard in late autumn and dig it into the soil after six weeks.
Otherwise, you can try potassium permanganate, which
I have heard great things about, and this can be added now.
What is the scab on my potato?
The scab is generally caused by a lack of calcium in the soil.
Incorporate gypsum at the time of planting to avoid this issue.
What is potato psyllid?
This is a nasty insect that injects a toxin into your plant.
Once injected your crop will start to die rapidly. There is no
cure; prevention is the key. Incorporate Neem into the soil
at planting time and then every six weeks. You can also use
Success Ultra or Mavrik as a prevention spray. Harvest spuds
before high summer to avoid issues.
What is blight?
To avoid blight, buy certified seed spuds from garden centres
and choose blight-resistant varieties. Harvest before high
summer as blight breeds in hot, humid climates.
What is the best potato to plant?
We all have our favourites, and we are having a debate
as I write. It depends on what you like to use the
potatoes for. Have a look at our potato board in
store to help you choose, then ask our staff
and see if they agree with your choice.
36

Why do I have a lot of leaves but not many
potatoes?
You have too much nitrogen in your soil and not enough
potassium. Sheep pellets are great but can’t be the only
source of nutrients with potatoes. Potato fertiliser is high in
potassium, which promotes root growth, and potatoes are
a root crop.
Why are my potatoes small?
They are either not ready to harvest and you need to
give them a little longer, or your soil may be too light.
Potatoes prefer a heavy soil, so mixing the existing
garden soil with compost makes a perfect soil medium.
How long until I harvest?
Each potato is different, and it will generally tell you when
on the bag of the one you purchased. If you are not sure,
dig up one plant and look at the size of the spuds to
decide. As a rule, most varieties take 90–100 days.
Do all potatoes flower?
No, not all potatoes flower, at least not that you will notice.
Your crop is ready to harvest at the recommended maturity
date or when the shoots start to wither and die.
Can I plant potatoes from the supermarket?
You can but you shouldn’t. You are more likely to get viruses
in your plants. Also, the potatoes sold at supermarkets are
often treated with chemicals to inhibit sprouting.
Need more in-depth info? Grab a copy of the Oderings
Gardening Guide, “Growing Potatoes”,
in store or online.

ODERINGS-GROWN
NEW
2021
Strawberry Petaluma
'Petaluma' is another outstanding variety released by the University
of California in the USA. It is a short-day cultivar, meaning it
produces most of its fruit during the shorter spring and autumn
days. Compared to other standard short-day varieties, it is a
moderately vigorous plant, and for this reason, it will occupy less
space per plant in your garden, making it an excellent choice for
pots and planters. The fruit is a bit darker and larger than other
varieties and has terrific flavour and good storage characteristics.
It is similar to the variety 'Camarosa' but with greater productivity,
higher quality fruit, and earlier production.
edibles
Basil Emerald Towers
Exclusive to Oderings, this basil is
something we have trialled, used
and love! Unlike traditional basil, it
grows straight up in a pillar shape
and eventually reaches 90 cm in
height. Flowering 12 weeks later
than standard basil means you
also get an extended harvest
period. Emerald Towers has dark
green, glossy foliage, which stays
nice and tidy but maintains the
traditional basil taste. Emerald
Towers lives up to its name, so for
a bigger and better harvest, this is
the basil to plant.
Basil Thai Towers
New to the Tower series, this gorgeous
Thai basil has masses of green leaves
with occasional purple flecks and soft
purple stems. Its aromatic and the
vibrant liquorice flavour can be used
fresh and complements any dish. With
a late-flowering habit, 10–12 weeks
later than traditional basil, Thai Towers
has huge harvests of flavourful leaves
throughout summer. A tidy, towering
plant with huge harvest potential, it is
excellent in gardens or containers and
grows to 90 cm.
Cauliflower Twister
Twister Cauliflower is an F1
hybrid with large, dense heads
and outstanding wrapping
ability. It is unique, with the
outer leaves "twisting" to
cover and protect the head for
beautiful, uniform bright white
heads. Performs well in the heat
or cool and seems to prefer
heavier soils.
NEW
2021
Oderings
Exclusive
38

NEW
2021
Pepper Jumbo
This is the most noteworthy
bell pepper we have seen, with
vigorous growth and a sensational
flavour. Provide support to hold the
weight of the substantially sized
fruits by loosely staking the plant.
Available mid-October
Pepper Tumbling Jalapeno
This variety is earlier to mature than other
jalapenos, giving you a head start on your
harvest. A unique trait of this tumbler
is how the fruit hangs down beneath
the foliage, making it easy to harvest;
its compact habit makes it perfect for
growing in containers and hanging
baskets. To make the fruit sweeter, leave
the fruit on the vine to ripen to red.
Available late-October
Pepper Sweet Lime
A perfect pepper for the patio!
This Italian frying variety produces
heavy yields of sweet, crisp,
thin-skinned peppers, with colour
changes from lime-green through
cream to vibrant orange. Superb
for eating fresh or added to a
variety of dishes. Available mid-
October
Chilli Carolina Reaper
Eater beware; this is our hottest
chilli and is not for the faint-hearted
as it is incredibly hot. It is initially
sweet and fragrant, and then it
catches you off guard as the heat
intensifies. Available mid-October
fire
ODE
The Bumblebee’s Tips
As your pepper plant grows into a bush, the
growth will create a fork shape; this is where
the crown flower (first flower) will form.
If these first flowers are not removed, they
will stunt your plant's growth as it puts
all its energy into that one fruit.
Chilli Mulato
Brown
The holy trinity for dried
chillies. Essentially used in
enchilada sauces and a staple
for authentic Mexican cuisine.
mild
Chilli Jalapeno
Scorcher
Loved by many, is easily
eaten and is classed as
having a mild heat.
mild
Chilli Bird's Eye
Is used in many Asian
dishes. It is small but
quite hot (piquant).
Available mid-October
medium
Chilli Habanero
Red
A popular building block
in hot sauces. Available
mid-October
hot
NEW
2021
39

Plant care for when you’re not there.
AquaBloom solar-powered irrigation set 13300-20
Get your summer watering sorted with AquaBloom, the
innovative solar-powered, micro-irrigation set that automatically
and evenly waters to up to 20 potted plants on your balcony,
terrace, patio, courtyard, or deck from a bucket.
No need for a tap connection, with everything included in the
box and ready to install in 5 easy steps.
Ideal for when you are away, on holiday, or simply busy.
Now that’s clever watering!
GARDENA.com