From the experts at Kings Plant Barn
What should I do after my moth orchid has finished flowering?
Once the orchid has stopped blooming, trim the flower stem down to a healthy node. Nodes are small bumps along the stem. Look for the node closest to the lowest flower on the stem and make the cut just below it. Remember to continue caring for your orchid as usual, however if the stem turns completely brown, cut it off at the base.
My roses are not looking good. What steps should I take?
It’s normal for roses to start losing their leaves at this time of year, it means that they are nearly ready for pruning. You can proceed now with pruning, which involves the following key points. Begin by removing any dead, damaged, diseased, or weak spindly growth. Cut the main branches back (on an angle facing away from the bud) to a strong outward facing bud, leaving four strong branches forming a vase shape. If you are still unsure of how to prune your rose, pop into your local Kings and the expert team will be happy to help.
Overnight, something stripped all my vegetable leaves back to the ground. I have found lots of brown caterpillars, what do I do?
The caterpillar is a type of armyworm. Warm, humid temperatures provide conditions that can lead to breakouts in high numbers. At the first sign of attack, spray with a combination of two sprays: Success Ultra and Aquaticus Bugtrol. Spray with one, then spray four days later with the other. Success Ultra can only be used four times a season so when you have used it four times change to Mavrik and Bugtrol for the best results.
My lemon tree has bumpy, crinkled leaves and corky bumps on the fruit. What is this and should I be worried?
This is caused by a fungal condition called citrus verrucosis, aka citrus scab. While the fruit may look unsightly, the inside is not impacted and can be used. To treat this, begin a spray programme. Apply FreeFlo Copper before and after petal fall, and continue up until harvest. Spray on a regular basis to get the disease under control and for continued protection. Apply citrus food regularly and water deeply in dry periods, so the lemon tree is not stressed and more susceptible to attack.
Head to kings.co.nz for more gardening advice and inspo.
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