Canberra’s native cut leaf daisy is a hardy, slow-growing ground cover that thrives in sunny, well-drained spots, says gardening columnist JACKIE WARBURTON.

A sweet little perennial ground cover, the cut leaf daisy (Brachyscome multifida) is native and endemic to Canberra.

It comes in several colours, with blue the most common, as well as white and pink flowering forms.

It is terrific for dry gardens, rockeries or spaces in full sun where other plants struggle to grow.

Plant Brachyscome alongside other plants that enjoy full sun and well-drained soil, such as ornamental grasses and natives including kangaroo paws (Chrysocephalum).

This ground cover is slow-growing, with the clump gradually becoming larger. Large clumps can be divided during the cooler months of early spring if needed.

Plant out with water crystals and keep moist for the first few weeks until established.

FOR anyone running out of garden space but still wanting to fit in more plants, miniature bulbs open up a whole new world.

They can be grown in pots on apartment windowsills or enjoyed as long-flowering, small potted plants.

When potted bulbs are in flower they are often scented, making a terrific table display.

Once the flowers and foliage are spent, the pots can be kept dry in a dark space over summer while the bulbs are dormant.

ONE tricky bulb is the golden, yellow-flowering Cyrtanthus, but to my surprise I saw a wonderful orange-red variety growing in a Canberra garden and it is a must-have. 

They do not like to be planted too deeply.

They are cousins of the Hippeastrum and Naked Ladies (Amaryllidaceae) and should be treated in the same way.

TOMATOES, eggplants and capsicums can be sown now for planting out in three to four weeks. Sow the seeds in shallow trays of seed-raising mix, keep moist and place in the shade. 

Protect young seedlings from snails and other insects by sprinkling a little diatomaceous earth around them.

Seedlings will be ready to plant out when they have at least four to six sets of leaves and a good, strong white root system.

Gently lay the seedlings into a prepared hole or trench, cover with soil and water in.

Protect larger seedlings in the garden while they are young by using a cloche or other mechanical measures to keep possums, rats and other animals out of the vegetable patch.

AS temperatures rise, irrigation will need to be increased to keep plants looking their best over summer. 

Morning watering is best for foliage because it allows plants to dry during the day. Afternoon or evening watering may be needed during the hot summer months, but consistent irrigation is best for even, steady growth.

The most water-efficient system waters the soil rather than the plants and provides consistent moisture throughout the week.

Irrigation should be laid above the soil but under the mulch for maximum efficiency. Once installed, check the system monthly for breakages or damage and make sure it is working properly.

WHEN planting anything new from now into the warmer months, water crystals can be added to the planting hole. They can be made up ahead of time with a seaweed solution added to help prevent transplant shock.

Jottings 

• Foliar feed all plants every two weeks. 

• Net fruit trees. 

• Fertilise fruit trees. 

• Prune conifers now.

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