Search Results

Written and edited by Tammy 17th April 2026 The air’s cooling off, the sky that soft lavender-pink we only seem to notice when we slow down. My two-year-old granddaughter grips the torch like it’s a sacred treasure. My five-year-old grandson walks beside her, whispering about “monsters” in the dark. They’re on an important mission. They’re heading down to pen up the chickens! Behind them, lolloping through the long grass, are the only real “monsters” in sight… the cat and the dog, happily tagging along like part of the security patrol. And as I watch those two little shadows wobble their way toward the chook pen, my heart just melts, because I’ve seen this before. Their mother did the very same thing at that age. Torch in hand. Bare feet in gum boots. Big imagination. Important job to do. Some traditions aren’t loud. They don’t come with certificates or trophies. But they shape us. And backyard chickens are one of those quiet rites of passage. Backyard Chickens — More Than Just Eggs Let’s be honest… eggs aren't cheap right now. Walking out to the pen and collecting warm, freshly laid eggs from your own backyard chickens feels almost rebellious in the best way. They're free, organic and reliable. But chickens give us far more than eggs. They give us: Responsibility Routine Connection to food A reason to step outside daily A front-row seat to nature doing its thing For children especially, caring for animals teaches real, everyday life skills. Feeding. Refilling water. Checking fences. Observing behaviour. (It still makes me smile that it even taught my three girls about “the birds and the bees”… yes, we had a rooster — I’ll leave that one right there.) It’s not theory, it’s lived learning. And that sort of learning sticks. Nature’s Pest Patrol (No Chemicals Required) This is where chickens quietly shine. They fit beautifully into a balanced, chemical-free garden. While they scratch and forage, they’re doing some serious garden work: Reducing pests naturally Interrupting pest life cycles Decreasing our reliance on pesticides Improving soil health Providing food security Every time we reach for chemical sprays, we’re not just targeting “the bad bugs”, we risk harming the beneficial ones too, and that ripple doesn’t stop there. Our blue-tongue lizards, birds, frogs, and soil life can all be affected. Even low-level exposure builds up over time. Chickens aren’t just livestock, they’re part of the ecosystem. When we lean into natural systems instead, whether that’s welcoming a resident blue-tongue or keeping a handful of chickens, we create gardens that are healthier for everyone… Plants, wildlife, pets, and people. Free High-Nitrogen Gold If you're a gardener, you already know this one, chicken manure is powerful stuff. Imagine knowing you’re making your very own ‘Who Flung Dung’! Who would’ve thought. It's high in nitrogen, brilliant for composting (once aged correctly), and an incredible soil booster. It closes the loop beautifully: Kitchen scraps → chickens → manure → compost → soil → food → back to the table. That’s sustainability in action. And our kids get to see it happening in real time. Teaching the Next Generation There’s something deeply grounding about children growing up knowing where their food comes from, collecting eggs, watching hens dust bathe, learning that animals need care every single day, not just when we feel like it. It builds empathy, it builds work ethic and it builds respect for life. And maybe most importantly… It creates memory. One day, my grandchildren will likely tell their own little ones about walking to the coop at dusk with “monsters” in the grass behind them. And the story will carry on. That’s legacy. For the Love of Chickens For me, it’s about so much more than just the eggs. It’s about those precious moments under dusk torchlight, small boots padding through the grass, and the thrill of imaginary monsters lurking just beyond the coop. It’s the cat and dog faithfully joining the nightly patrol, and the comfort of walking the same well-worn path that’s been shared across three generations. In a world that moves so quickly, backyard chickens have a way of slowing us down in the very best sense. They gently tether us back to the land, teaching us patience without ever needing to say a word. They nourish us, care for our gardens in their own clever way, and quietly help protect the little patch we call ours. It’s funny, isn’t it… how something so simple can end up meaning so very much. Happy gardening😘💚  Want a little more support in your garden? If this kind of garden life speaks to you, natural systems, chemical-free pest control, healthier soil, food security, and raising the next generation with muddy hands and practical know-how, you’ll feel right at home inside The Backyard. In-depth seasonal guides. Weekly “what to do in the garden this week” newsletter. And the ability to chat one-on-one with me for plant, pest, disease or disorder troubleshooting, just like having me standing in your own yard. It’s a small, warm community built around real gardens and real life. You’re always welcome to join our little patch. 🪴💚 A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻 More Blogs You Might Find Interesting Barn Owls, Nature's Own Rodent Control (No Chemicals Required) There’s something almost mystical and other-worldly about the first time you see a barn owl glide across a paddock at dusk. No wingbeat sound. No warning call. Just a pale, heart-shaped face drifting silently through the fading light like a ghost on the wind. Here in South Australia, we are so lucky to call them our own     How to Make Blue-Tongue Lizards Safe and At Home in Your Garden One of Australia’s most misunderstood garden legends: the blue-tongue lizard. Now despite their tough-guy act, blue tongues are absolute sweethearts when it comes to our gardens and ecosystems. They’re not aggressive, they don’t want your lunch, (mind you they’ll snack on the cats food if you leave it out) and they’re certainly not plotting your downfall, they’re just doing an important job and hoping we’ll leave them be. Adapting to Drought Tolerant Gardening: Thriving in the Dry With climate patterns shifting and drought becoming a more common reality for so many of us, as gardeners we’re faced with the new challenge of how to keep our gardens thriving with less water. Gardening during dry times isn’t about giving up and accepting defeat, it’s about getting smart and creative. By embracing some simple alternatives, our gardens can become more resilient, sustainable, and beautiful than ever.

Written and edited by Tammy 21st March 2026 Big headlines. Big opinions. Big worries about what might happen next… Fuel prices climbing, talk of shortages, recessions and uncertainty about the future. It’s no surprise that more and more of us are starting to think about how to be a little more self-sufficient in tough times, not out of fear, but from a quiet desire to feel steadier, more prepared, and a little less reliant on everything outside our control. And while it’s easy to get caught up in all of that, there’s one truthful, comforting, dependable place I keep coming back to… my own little backyard. I don’t see it as burying my head in the sand or turning my back on reality. Truth is… right now, the world does feel a little scary and unpredictable. But the simple things haven’t changed. Seeds still grow. The sun still rises. And a garden, no matter how big or small, still offers us a sense of calm, purpose, and control. Life is short and precious… and we owe it to ourselves to hold onto that. 🌱 Small actions, steady roots We don’t need to overhaul our lives overnight to feel more secure. Sometimes it’s the smallest shifts that make the biggest difference. Walking down the street to grab a loaf of bread and a carton of milk instead of jumping in the car. Getting a little fresh air, a little sunshine, and saving a few dollars while we’re at it. Planting a few herbs by the back door. A handful of continuous pick lettuce. A punnet of broccoli seedlings or two. Not because we need to become fully self-sufficient…But because it feels good to grow something of our own. 🍅 Growing more than just food There’s something quietly powerful about stepping outside and picking what you need. Whether it's something as small as a sprig of parsley, or a handful of beans. I myself have passionfruit ripening by the bucketload and the figs are just beginning. It might not seem like much… but it all adds up. A few dollars saved here and there. A little less reliance on the shops. A deeper connection to what we’re eating and how it’s grown. And maybe most importantly, a sense of “we’ve got this.” 🤝 Community still matters One of the most beautiful things I see, time and time again, is how gardens bring people together. I was standing in the kitchen, casually chatting with some lovely clients after pruning their espaliered fruit trees, when a neighbour dropped in. She was heading out of town for a few days and had brought over a big box full of freshly picked herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Smiling at me, even though she didn’t know me, she warmly said, “Please… take some, take as much as you like. There’s plenty there.” This is what I’m speaking of, these simple, warm, generous acts. These are the things money cannot buy, and the very things gardening brings into our lives. Because it’s so much more than just growing plants…although that’s a very important part. It’s checking in on someone down the road. It’s tending to each other’s gardens or sharing the overflow of fresh produce in times of absence. In times when the world feels uncertain, these small acts matter more than ever. Because resilience isn’t just about what we grow…it’s about how we look after each other. 🌼 A different kind of strength We don’t need to live in fear to be prepared, and we don’t need to panic to be practical. There’s a quiet kind of strength in: learning a few simple skills growing a little of our own food being mindful of how we use our resources supporting the people around us It’s not dramatic. It’s not headline-worthy. But it’s real. And it’s enough. How to Be Self-Sufficient in Tough Times 🌿 Come back to what’s steady When the world feels a bit loud like it does right now… Step outside. Feel the sun on your face. Take a slow walk. Put your hands in the soil. Water your plants. Because in the backyard, things still make sense. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need. We might not be able to control what’s happening out there…But we can absolutely shape what’s happening right here. And that’s a pretty powerful place to start. Happy Gardening😘💚  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, come join me in the Backyard😁💚 A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻 More Blogs You Might Find Interesting Barn Owls, Nature's Own Rodent Control (No Chemicals Required) There’s something almost mystical and other-worldly about the first time you see a barn owl glide across a paddock at dusk. No wingbeat sound. No warning call. Just a pale, heart-shaped face drifting silently through the fading light like a ghost on the wind. Here in South Australia, we are so lucky to call them our own How to Make Blue-Tongue Lizards Safe and At Home in Your Garden One of Australia’s most misunderstood garden legends: the blue-tongue lizard. Now despite their tough-guy act, blue tongues are absolute sweethearts when it comes to our gardens and ecosystems. They’re not aggressive, they don’t want your lunch, (mind you they’ll snack on the cats food if you leave it out) and they’re certainly not plotting your downfall, they’re just doing an important job and hoping we’ll leave them be. Adapting to Drought Tolerant Gardening: Thriving in the Dry With climate patterns shifting and drought becoming a more common reality for so many of us, as gardeners we’re faced with the new challenge of how to keep our gardens thriving with less water. Gardening during dry times isn’t about giving up and accepting defeat, it’s about getting smart and creative. By embracing some simple alternatives, our gardens can become more resilient, sustainable, and beautiful than ever.

Written and edited by Tammy February 2026 So this was me recently…warm sunny day, I run outside in my lunchbreak to grab the washing off the line. I throw the side gate open and recoiled in horror thinking snake!! …as something slithered by. Common sense prevailed, I knew I couldn’t just ignore it, so I peeked back over the gate from a safe distance (perched up on the edge of the tank stand), only to see a plump little blue tongue lizard, none-too-impressed staring back up at me🤨 I smiled and chuckled to myself with sheer relief thinking, now that’s super cute.... there's lizard in my yard.  One of Australia’s most misunderstood garden legends: the blue-tongue lizard. Now despite their tough-guy act, blue tongues are absolute sweethearts when it comes to our gardens and ecosystems. They’re not aggressive, they don’t want your lunch, (mind you they’ll snack on the cats food if you leave it out) and they’re certainly not plotting your downfall, they’re just doing an important job and hoping we’ll leave them be. And What’s With That Bright Blue Tongue? That famous blue tongue? It's all theatre. When something startles him, he flashes that neon tongue and lets out a hiss, not because he’s aggressive, but because he’s hoping YOU’LL think he is. It’s all bluff. “I’ll just pinch a strawberry and be on my way.” They’re slow movers, not sprinters, and rely far more on performance than power. In reality, a blue tongue would much rather waddle off quietly than start any drama. Nature’s Pest Control (No Chemicals Required) This is where blue tongues really earn their keep. They’re natural pest managers, with a diet that includes: Snails and slugs Beetles and insects Grubs Fallen fruit and berries They’re especially helpful in veggie patches and ornamental gardens where snails love to party. One blue tongue can make a noticeable dent in pest numbers, quietly, efficiently, and without harming soil life or beneficial insects. In it for the Long Haul In the wild, when conditions are right, blue tongues can live 20 years or more, with some thought to reach closer to 30 years in safe, undisturbed habitats. That means the blue tongue you spot today could still be sharing your garden decades from now, sunning itself in the same warm patch, patrolling for snails, and watching generations of plants come and go. (and for some of us, that's a lot!! of plants that is) Not many of us get to share our gardens long-term with a native reptile who chooses to stay. If you do, you should feel very lucky and privileged indeed and treasure that. When we protect their habitat, we’re not just helping a moment, we’re supporting a lifetime. Why Blue Tongues Lizards Need Our Help Despite their tough exterior, blue tongues are increasingly vulnerable, and habitat loss is the biggest threat they face. Over-tidy gardens, removed logs, sealed fences, and chemical use all make life harder for these ground-dwelling little locals. They rely on: Dense shrubs and ground cover Mulch and leaf litter Logs, rocks, and undisturbed corners Safe access between gardens It’s also worth gently acknowledging the role our much-loved pets can play. Cats are wonderful companions, but even well-fed, well-cared-for cats still follow natural hunting instincts. Keeping cats safely contained to our own yards, using cat runs, enclosures, or supervised outdoor time, is one of the kindest ways we can protect local wildlife, while also keeping our pets safer from injury, disease, and traffic. Small, thoughtful choices like these help create gardens where native wildlife and our everyday lives can peacefully coexist. Those “messy” spots we’re often tempted to clean up? That’s premium blue-tongue real estate. Spring Babies & Tough-Love Parenting Spring is breeding season, and blue tongues have one of the more fascinating parenting styles in the reptile world. Unlike many reptiles, blue tongues give birth to live young, not eggs. Mum carries her babies internally, then gives birth to tiny, fully formed miniature blue tongues, usually anywhere from 5 to 20 babies, depending on conditions. And then? No hand-holding. No free meals. No lingering around the family home. Blue tongues don’t let their teenagers laze about on free handouts. Those little bubbas are independent from day one, sent off to forage for their very first meal all on their own. Snails, insects, fallen fruit; it’s a case of sink or slither! They’re bred tough, and it shows. A Gentle Springtime Reminder Because baby blue tongues are small, curious, and inexperienced, spring is a high-risk time for them in gardens. This is when slowing down really matters: Check before mowing or whipper-snipping Look carefully when lifting pots, timber, or mulch Avoid snail baits completely Leave refuge areas intact That scrappy little “stick” moving through your garden might be someone’s very first solo foraging mission. One safe backyard can make all the difference. How to Create a Blue-Tongue-Friendly Garden Supporting blue tongues doesn’t mean sacrificing your garden, it means gardening smarter and caringly. A few simple choices go a long way: Leave some leaf litter and mulch in place Keep logs or rocks tucked into garden beds Avoid chemicals and snail pellets (especially metaldehyde) Provide shallow water during hot weather Think of your garden as shared space, after all, it’s actually us that’s shifted into their home….not the other way around Gardens aren’t just about plants. They’re living systems, and blue tongues are part of that story. Put Out the Welcome Doormat A blue-tongue lizard is a sign of a healthy, balanced garden. They’re quite proof that soil life, insects, shelter, and food chains are all doing exactly what they should. So next time that chunky little guy frightens the bejeebers out of you and flashes his blue tongue, take it as a compliment. Your garden has been officially approved by one of nature’s toughest little critics. Happy gardening 😘💚  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, come join me in the Backyard😁💚 A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻 More Blogs You Might Find Interesting Beginners Guide to Creating a landscape design for your new home Creating your own landscape design  can be one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of moving into a new home. It’s your opportunity to shape the outdoor space into something that’s not only beautiful, but functional and your own. Whether you envision a lush garden, a modern patio, or a family-friendly backyard, it all starts with a solid plan. 5 Reasons to Build a Garden Path Creating a garden path  is about more than just getting from A to B. It’s a way to add structure, personality, and even a little magic to your outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cosy courtyard, a thoughtfully designed path can completely transform how your garden looks and  feels. Here are five great reasons why a garden path  is more than just a landscaping extra, it’s a total game changer. Adapting to Drought Tolerant Gardening: Thriving in the Dry With climate patterns shifting and drought becoming a more common reality for so many of us, as gardeners we’re faced with the new challenge of how to keep our gardens thriving with less water. Gardening during dry times isn’t about giving up and accepting defeat, it’s about getting smart and creative. By embracing some simple alternatives, our gardens can become more resilient, sustainable, and beautiful than ever.

Written and edited by Tammy 3rd March 2026 Before we begin, I want to share something honestly. The reason I’m writing this post is because recently I came across several pieces of footage and stories of barn owls that had died from poisoning. Different places. Different stories. Same heartbreaking outcome. I found it deeply upsetting and it truly stuck with me. I don’t claim to know everything about every topic I write about. I never have. But what I do promise is this, I write from my heart. I write about what I care about. When I don’t know enough, I research. I learn. I ask questions, and then I share what I’ve discovered in the most honest and balanced way I can. In this case, I’m not trying to be dramatic or political. I’m simply hoping to spread awareness. Because sometimes awareness is enough to gently shift choices. And if a small shift in choice means fewer beautiful barn owls are lost unnecessarily, then this conversation is worth having. The Barn Owl There’s something almost mystical and other-worldly about the first time you see a barn owl glide across a paddock at dusk. No wingbeat sound. No warning call. Just a pale, heart-shaped face drifting silently through the fading light like a ghost on the wind. Here in South Australia, we are so lucky to call them our own. Barn owls (Tyto alba) are widespread across much of our state. You'll find them anywhere from open farming land throughout the Limestone Coast, to coastal plains, roadside verges and even the outskirts of small regional towns. Basically, anywhere there are open hunting grounds and rodents to be found, barn owls are quite likely not far away. They favour wide, open spaces where they can glide low, back and forth at night listening for the faint rustle of mice or rats beneath the grass. Old gum trees with hollows, abandoned buildings and hay sheds often provide nesting sites. They don’t demand pristine wilderness, they simply need space, shelter, and a food source free from toxins. In many ways, our agricultural landscapes suit them beautifully. If we let them. ⸻ Built for the Night Shift That striking white, heart-shaped face isn’t just beautiful, it’s brilliant by design. It acts like a satellite dish, funnelling the faintest sounds into their highly sensitive ears. A barn owl can detect a mouse moving under vegetation in near total darkness. Their flight feathers are structured in a unique way to muffle sound. No swoosh. No flap. No second chance for the mouse. Just silent precision. ⸻ And What’s On the Menu? Mostly rodents. Mice. Rats. An adult barn owl can consume several rodents each night. A breeding pair raising chicks can remove hundreds over a single season. No chemicals. No contamination. No unintended victims. Just balance. ⸻ Nature’s Rodent Control (No Poisons Required) While many common pest rodents are introduced species, whether we like it or not, they’re now woven into our landscape, and barn owls have adapted accordingly. After good seasons, rodent numbers naturally surge. Barn owls are part of that same equation. They regulate populations without harming: • Soil life • Native reptiles • Beneficial insects • Waterways • Pets It’s not about eradicating rodents entirely. It’s about maintaining equilibrium. When we allow barn owls to do their job, we are working with our ecosystem, not against it. ⸻ The Tragedy of Second-Hand Poisoning And this is where the story becomes heavier. Many commercially available rodent baits such as Ratsak, (most are familiar with) contain second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides, which are particularly harmful to birds of prey, they don’t just kill rodents. Through secondary poisoning, these toxins can move up the food chain, potentially affecting the very predators we rely on for natural rodent control, along with other native wildlife that were never the intended target. Here's what happens: A rodent eats bait but often doesn’t die immediately. It wanders off, weak and disoriented, becoming easy prey. An owl swoops in, doing exactly what it evolved to do, and unknowingly ingests the poison. This is called secondary poisoning. These toxins accumulate in body tissue. One contaminated rodent may not cause immediate death, but repeated exposure builds up over time. Barn owls, boobooks, kites, hawks, even domestic pets, are all potential victims. And the most heartbreaking part? The owl was already solving the rodent issue naturally for us. We lose too many of these beautiful, feathered night guardians to something entirely avoidable. ⸻ There Are Safer Ways I understand not wanting rodents in sheds or homes. That’s completely fair. I’m not a fan of them either. But we do have alternatives that don’t unravel the web of life around us: • Sealing entry points into buildings • Removing accessible food sources • Securing compost and grain • Bringing pet food inside overnight • Using enclosed mechanical snap traps when necessary • Encouraging natural predators When we shift from reaction to responsibility, everything changes. This isn’t about ignoring rodents. It’s about managing wisely, without collateral damage. ⸻ A Long-Term Neighbour Barn owls can live for several years in the wild when safe from poisoning and habitat loss. If they find suitable nesting hollows and reliable hunting grounds, they may return to the same territory year after year after year. While we sleep, these beautiful silent guardians are patrolling. Not many of us get to share space with a native apex night hunter that chooses to stay. If you do, treasure it. ⸻ Why Barn Owls Need Our Help Their greatest threats in South Australia include: • Loss of old hollow trees • Removal of nesting sites • Vehicle strikes • Secondary poisoning from rodenticides Those big, ageing gum trees we sometimes see as messy or inconvenient? That’s prime owl real estate. Once gone, they take decades to replace. ⸻ A Gentle Reminder About Our Choices Every product we use in our gardens enters a larger web. If we introduce poison into that web, it doesn’t stop where we intended. Barn owls are not pests. They are partners. Rodents are a natural part of their diet. Let’s allow them to do what they’re meant to do 🫶🦉 ⸻ Learn More & Support Owl Protection If you’d like to explore further or support advocacy work, here are a few reputable Australian organisations: • BirdLife Australia – https://birdlife.org.au • Australian Raptor Association – https://australianraptorassociation.org.au • WIRES Wildlife Rescue – https://www.wires.org.au • RSPCA Knowledgebase (Rodenticide impacts) – https://kb.rspca.org.au You can also search for local wildlife rescue groups in the Limestone Coast region who regularly treat raptors affected by rodenticides. Education matters. Conversations matter. Small choices matter. ⸻ Why I care To me, a barn owl drifting across a paddock at dusk is proof that the ecosystem is still breathing. Still functioning. Still trying to hold balance. They are quiet evidence that food chains, prey cycles, and natural systems are doing what they were designed to do. If you're lucky enough to glimpse that pale shape gliding across your yard as the light fades, pause for a little moment and take it in. Feel gratitude and compassion. Because that means your patch is still part of the living, breathing system it was always meant to be. And that beautiful bird is simply doing what nature designed it to do. From my heart to yours Tam🫶🦉💚  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, come join me in the Backyard😁💚 A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻 More Blogs You Might Find Interesting Beginners Guide to Creating a landscape design for your new home Creating your own landscape design  can be one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of moving into a new home. It’s your opportunity to shape the outdoor space into something that’s not only beautiful, but functional and your own. Whether you envision a lush garden, a modern patio, or a family-friendly backyard, it all starts with a solid plan. 5 Reasons to Build a Garden Path Creating a garden path  is about more than just getting from A to B. It’s a way to add structure, personality, and even a little magic to your outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cosy courtyard, a thoughtfully designed path can completely transform how your garden looks and  feels. Here are five great reasons why a garden path  is more than just a landscaping extra, it’s a total game changer. Adapting to Drought Tolerant Gardening: Thriving in the Dry With climate patterns shifting and drought becoming a more common reality for so many of us, as gardeners we’re faced with the new challenge of how to keep our gardens thriving with less water. Gardening during dry times isn’t about giving up and accepting defeat, it’s about getting smart and creative. By embracing some simple alternatives, our gardens can become more resilient, sustainable, and beautiful than ever.

Written and edited by Tammy 16th January 2026 Why Does Water Run Off My Soil Instead of Soaking in? Sound familiar? To me, it sure does! Nearly every second customer I talk to throughout the summer months asks this exact question...."Why does water run off my soil instead of soaking in?? what am I doing wrong?" Have you ever watered the garden… only to watch the water bead up, run sideways, or disappear into cracks like it’s actively avoiding the soil? You’re not imagining it, and you’re definitely not doing anything wrong. Chances are, you’re dealing with hydrophobic soil, one of the most common (and frustrating) soil issues I see in home gardens throughout our region, Naracoorte in the Limestone Coast. (We have a lot of that horrid grey non wetting sand). Let’s gently unpack what’s going on, why it happens, and how we can bring that soil back to life 💚 Hydrophobic soil literally means water-repellent soil. Instead of soaking in nice and evenly, water sits on the surface in a neat round bubble, not soaking in at all, leaving our plants thirsty, bone dry and stressed, despite our best efforts and intentions, which is incredibly frustrating. (Think about like this...when we apply sunscreen to our skin, what happens when we jump in the pool? The water beads up and rolls right off us. We repel the water. So how do we get rid of that greasy coating? (Little hint… we definitely don’t go and roll in compost 😜) We break it down with a hot, soapy shower. Because soap breaks down grease!). ⸻ Why Does Soil Become Hydrophobic? Soil tends to become hydrophobic when it dries out too much, for too long. As it dries, waxy organic compounds begin to coat the soil particles. Instead of attracting water, these coatings cause water to repel, meaning it simply can’t soak in the way it should. Once soil reaches this point, it actively resists re-wetting, even when we think we’re giving it a good, deep drink. The problem is really common in sandy soils. Sand drains very quickly, holds very little organic matter, and dries out way faster than heavier soils. Think hot summers, drying winds, and inconsistent rainfall… and boom, you've got hydrophobic soil! 😫 Here's How we Treat Hydrophobic Soil (Gently and Effectively) 1. Patience. Slow re-hydration, not blasting it, fast watering just runs straight off. Let the soil learn to accept water again. Try: • a gentle hose trickle • drippers ⸻ 2. Add Organic Matter (This Is the Big One) Organic matter improves soil structure helping it to hold moisture and break that water-repellent coating. Think: • compost • well-rotted manures • worm castings A little often is better than dumping heaps on all at once. ⸻ 3. Use a Soil Wetter Eco-friendly soil wetting agents can help temporarily break that water-repellent barrier. They’re especially handy: • at the start of the season • after a long dry spell Think of them as a support tool, not a forever fix. (Look for Amgrow Wetta Soil or Richgro Ezy Wet) ⸻ 4. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch Bare soil dries out faster, every single time. Mulch: • keeps soil cooler • reduces evaporation • protects soil biology Organic mulches are best as they feed the soil as they break down. Preventing Hydrophobic Soil Long-Term This is where gardening gets easier (promise). The key is keeping soil consistently moist, not wet and soggy, but not allowed to dry out to bone-dry either. Maintaining organic matter in the soil year-round helps protect soil particles and encourages healthier structure, while making mulching an essential 'MUST DO' avoids bare soil, reducing drying, baking, and water repellence. Improving soil structure is a slow, seasonal process, but each small step builds on the last. Healthy soil biology equals soil that wants  to accept water. Hydrophobic soil isn’t a sign of bad gardening. It’s a sign of dry conditions meeting sandy soil, something many of us are working with. With a few gentle tweaks, your soil can absolutely be brought back into balance. And once it does? Watering becomes easier, plants cope better with heat, and the whole garden just feels calmer. From my backyard to yours Happy Gardening💚😘 If you’re curious to learn more, I'd love to have you join me in The Backyard. Inside you’ll find my 26 page, in-depth guide, 'The Gardener’s Handy ‘Doctor’s Bag' full of practical, step-by-step ways to diagnose what’s wrong with your plants, and identify some of the culprits along the way. AND of course my latest one…. ‘The Beginners Guide to Identifying Your Soil’ Learn how to identify your soil type the simple way. Is it sandy, clay, loam, or even water-repellent? This beginner-friendly soil guide walks you through easy at-home tests, what to look for, and what to add before you start digging. 👉 My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻

Written and edited by Tammy 26th February 2026 Rain, Ants & Laughing Kookaburras, Let’s Myth Bust a Few! If you grew up anywhere near a backyard, paddock, or washing line, you’ve probably heard at least one of these: “The kookaburras are laughing — rain’s coming!” “The ants are coming out — there’ll be a storm.” “My knees are aching — weather’s turning.” “Cows are lying down — it’ll rain.” But are these just old wives’ tales… or were our grandparents quietly onto something? Let’s have a little look. ⸻ Kookaburras Laughing = Rain Coming? The iconic laugh of the Laughing Kookaburra is often linked to incoming rain. Myth or truth? A little bit of both. Kookaburras don’t “predict” rain, but they are highly sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure. Before a storm rolls in, barometric pressure drops and humidity rises. These subtle changes can affect insect movement and animal behaviour. Kookaburras often become more vocal: • To reinforce territory before weather shifts • Because prey activity increases • Or simply because they’re responding to environmental change So, while they’re not tiny feathered meteorologists… they are reacting to the same changes that lead to rain. Grandma wasn’t entirely wrong. 😉 ⸻ Ants Coming Out of the Ground = Storm Brewing? This one has a surprising amount of science behind it. Many ant species are incredibly sensitive to: • Soil moisture levels • Air pressure drops • Rising humidity Before heavy rain, ants will often: • Reinforce their tunnels • Move eggs and larvae to higher chambers • Become more visibly active Why? Because flooding underground is a real threat. They’re not predicting rain in a mystical way, they’re responding to environmental signals we can’t easily detect. And because we only notice them when they suddenly appear in numbers… we connect the dots to the storm that follows. ⸻ Cows Lying Down = Rain? The idea here is that cows lie down to keep a dry patch of grass beneath them before rain hits. In reality? Cows lie down to: • Chew their cud • Rest • Regulate body temperature However… increased humidity and pressure changes can influence herd behaviour. So, while it’s not a guaranteed rain signal, shifting weather can subtly alter livestock patterns. It’s correlation more than causation. ⸻ Achy Knees & Old Injuries This one might hit close to home! Some people genuinely feel: • Joint stiffness • Increased pain • Headaches before a weather change. There is evidence that falling barometric pressure can affect joint tissues and fluid pressure in the body, especially in older injuries. So when Pop said, “Storm’s coming, my knee’s playing up,” he may well have been sensing the pressure drop before the clouds even formed. ⸻ So… Myth or Wisdom? Most of these sayings aren’t magical predictions. They’re observations. Animals and even our own bodies are sensitive to: • Barometric pressure changes • Humidity shifts • Temperature fluctuations • Static charge in the air We might rely on weather apps now… but for generations, people relied on birds, insects, livestock, and their own knees. And honestly? There’s something beautifully grounding about paying attention to the world like that. Next time the kookaburra laughs and the ants start marching, maybe don’t roll your eyes just yet. You might want to grab the washing off the line. 😉 Keep smiling, and happy gardening😘💚  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, come join me in the Backyard😁💚 A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻 More Blogs You Might Find Interesting Beginners Guide to Creating a landscape design for your new home Creating your own landscape design  can be one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of moving into a new home. It’s your opportunity to shape the outdoor space into something that’s not only beautiful, but functional and your own. Whether you envision a lush garden, a modern patio, or a family-friendly backyard, it all starts with a solid plan. 5 Reasons to Build a Garden Path Creating a garden path  is about more than just getting from A to B. It’s a way to add structure, personality, and even a little magic to your outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cosy courtyard, a thoughtfully designed path can completely transform how your garden looks and  feels. Here are five great reasons why a garden path  is more than just a landscaping extra, it’s a total game changer. Adapting to Drought Tolerant Gardening: Thriving in the Dry With climate patterns shifting and drought becoming a more common reality for so many of us, as gardeners we’re faced with the new challenge of how to keep our gardens thriving with less water. Gardening during dry times isn’t about giving up and accepting defeat, it’s about getting smart and creative. By embracing some simple alternatives, our gardens can become more resilient, sustainable, and beautiful than ever.

Written and edited by Tammy 13th February 2026 What Can I Do with a Narrow Side Yard As housing blocks get smaller and homes sit closer together, the size and opportunities for gardens are shrinking too. Unless you’re lucky enough to own a house block in and older original part of town, larger backyards really are a thing of the past, and that means we’re having to get a little more creative with the space we do  have. One of the most overlooked areas is the side yard, that narrow strip running down the side of the house that often ends up forgotten, bare, or home for the rubbish bins and fold out washing line, rather than part of the garden. When it’s approached with intention, a side yard can become one of the most productive and rewarding parts of the garden. Why Side Yards Are Becoming So Popular Side yards are having a real moment, especially in modern homes and urban gardens. They solve a very real problem, ‘how to enjoy gardening when space is limited’. They’re often sheltered, close to the house, and capable of creating unique microclimates. Instead of being wasted space, side yards can become green corridors, edible strips, or calm, leafy walkways that soften the hard edges of the home. How to Read Your Side Yard Before Planting I know the excitement of feeling 'gung-ho', wanting to just get stuck into it and start planting. But before you do... Ask yourself: Which side of the house is it on? How much direct sunlight does it actually receive? Is it exposed to heat, wind, or reflected glare? Does the soil dry out quickly or stay cool and damp? It’s really important we understand these conditions first, because choosing the right plants from the start has a huge bearing on the success of our garden. Can You Grow Food in a Side Yard Absolutely. Side yards are ideal for compact edible gardens, especially herbs and leafy crops. Because they’re close to the house, they’re easy to water, harvest, and keep an eye on. Great options include: Herbs like parsley, coriander, thyme, oregano, and chives Leafy greens such as lettuce, rocket, spinach, and silverbeet Spring onions, garlic, and strawberries Vertical growing works beautifully in narrow spaces too, making it possible to grow plenty without crowding the walkway. What to Plant in a Shady Side Yard If your side yard sits on the southern side of the house, shade may be the dominant feature. While it can feel limiting at first, many plants thrive in cooler, protected conditions. Look for plants like these, they're all shade-loving options: Ferns Clivia Liriope Heuchera Native violets as groundcover Hydrangea These spaces often become lush, cooling garden corridors when cleverly planted. AI created image as an example What to Plant in a Hot Dry Side Yard Western-facing side yards don't come without their challenges either. Afternoon sun, reflected heat from walls, and dry soil can be common issues. The key here is choosing resilient plants that cope well once established, supported by good soil preparation and mulch. Hardy options include: Lomandra Dianella Rosemary Lavender Westringia myoporum Native grass trees Agave Succulents Deep, watering and improved soil health make a huge difference in these types of spaces. Design Ideas for Narrow Side Yards Even the narrowest side yard benefits from simple design choices. A small arbour, a swing chair, stepping stones, soft planting edges, repetition of plants, (often 'less is more') and vertical elements like climbers or trellises help the space feel intentional rather than forgotten. Don't forget water features and garden art, these are things that don't require keeping them alive, can utilise some space and have a huge wow factor. A side yard doesn’t need to be wide to feel welcoming, it just needs purpose. AI created image as an example Small Side Yards Big Gardening Potential Side yards may be narrow, but they’re full of opportunity. With the right plant choices and a little planning, they can become productive, calming, and beautiful parts of the garden. In today’s smaller blocks, every metre matters, and the side yard is no longer an afterthought. Happy Gardening😘  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, come join me in the Backyard😁💚 A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻 More Blogs You Might Find Interesting Beginners Guide to Creating a landscape design for your new home Creating your own landscape design  can be one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of moving into a new home. It’s your opportunity to shape the outdoor space into something that’s not only beautiful, but functional and your own. Whether you envision a lush garden, a modern patio, or a family-friendly backyard, it all starts with a solid plan. 5 Reasons to Build a Garden Path Creating a garden path  is about more than just getting from A to B. It’s a way to add structure, personality, and even a little magic to your outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cosy courtyard, a thoughtfully designed path can completely transform how your garden looks and  feels. Here are five great reasons why a garden path  is more than just a landscaping extra, it’s a total game changer. Adapting to Drought Tolerant Gardening: Thriving in the Dry With climate patterns shifting and drought becoming a more common reality for so many of us, as gardeners we’re faced with the new challenge of how to keep our gardens thriving with less water. Gardening during dry times isn’t about giving up and accepting defeat, it’s about getting smart and creative. By embracing some simple alternatives, our gardens can become more resilient, sustainable, and beautiful than ever.

Sunburnt raspberries Written and edited by Tammy 25th February 2024 This would have to have been one of the weirdest summer seasons we've had in a long time. With a wet start including record breaking unprecedented rain events, humidity, not enough consistent warm sunny days to ripen vegetables, and literally one or two random close to 40-degree hot days that shocked and fried everything in the gardens beyond belief. Fair to say it created some challenges. I bet you felt like a bad plant parent looking around mystified at all the burnt crispy foliage. Well, if it makes you feel any better, you're not alone. That was me too. My poor Fig tree right now😢 Don't beat yourself up, here's what we can do...  **How to save my burnt plants ** Tip 1- Lighten the load. They will be absolutely fine, with a little TLC. If they are young trees, at this point in time so close to Autumn, they are going to drop all the burnt leaves anyway, and that's ok, it's to be expected. If they are shrubs or perennials, you might like to give them a light prune to remove all the damaged foliage and take some weight off/lighten the load. Tip 2- Seasol guaranteed to help every time! Start treating with weekly applications of Seasol Health Treatment to help the plant overcome the stress it's experienced and boost its system to start reproducing new foliage. If you have non-wetting or dry sandy soil, give Seasols Super Soil Wetter and Conditioner a go, It's a wetting agent, soil conditioner and plant health treatment all in one. Super Soil Wetter According to Seasols official website , their product Improves water penetration in all soils. Retains moisture at the root zone and reduces drying of soil. Maximises nutrient uptake. Increases watering efficiency and minimises run-off and water wastage. Contains liquid composts which improve and condition the soil. Contains Seasol which promotes strong healthy root growth and overall plant health. You'll find Seasol products available online and through most major leading outlets. Tip 3 - Cover up, provide protection. Fortunately, we're at the tail end of summer so hopefully there shouldn't be too many more extreme heat events. Where practicable, provide some shade or protection from the sun. There's nothing worse than seeing fresh new delicate green growth, only to have it happen again!! If you know there are hot days coming in the preceding week, rig up a shade sail, some shade cloth over star droppers or even an old sheet perhaps. Tip 4 - Slip slop slap, "slop on sunscreen" If it's not practical to physically cover your plants up, consider applying a heat and frost protectant product such as Envy. Envy is the product of an Australian company based in Qld called Agrobest. It's kind of like a sunscreen for plants. Well not just only sunscreen, it's better than that as it protects them from ALL environmental climatic stresses. The active ingredient is a water-based polymer that's non-toxic, pH neutral and biodegradable. When it's applied to your plants it covers the foliage with an invisible membrane that protects them from sunburn, windburn, wilting from excessive moisture loss and frosts. It doesn't prevent them from still being able to photosynthesize and breathe (take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen). It's a very clever concept really and well worth routinely using. You can find the product through some specialty plants stores and this company appears to have it available too. The Garden Super Store based in QLD. Here's a link to their website Garden Shop | 1000's Of Products | The Garden Superstore Envy sun and frost protectant. Tip 5 - Planting location Consider the plants growing location preferences when choosing a spot in your garden. If a plant label recommends part sun to shade, you might reconsider not planting it in the middle of the garden on the Northwestern side of your yard. Alternatively, if it suggests a preference for full sun, you wouldn't plant it on the southeastern side of your yard behind the house. As time goes by and your garden matures, you'll begin to create a microclimate giving you new planting location opportunities. A large evergreen tree planted in the full sun will provide a nice full shade location for shade loving plants. All things to consider when planning and designing your garden if you're starting out from scratch. Don't despair as there's always a solution or a way to get around things in gardening. It might look a little sad and less than ideal, but burnt foliage is just one of those unfortunate things that happens from time to time. Try a few of these tips, hopefully they'll help. Here's hoping you've had a wonderful weekend, As always, Happy Gardening! 😘🌸🌳  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, you’re always welcome to come and join us. A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻

Written and updated by Tammy 15th December 2024 Now more than ever with the costs of living making things a struggle for families, we're all looking for ways to consciously save money any way we can in and around our homes. Our gardens aren't the exception. There are lots of simple measures we can take to save water in our gardens potentially saving us hundreds of dollars a year. Tap timers. Replace the batteries in your tap timers at the beginning of each season and run them to ensure they're functioning correctly. Check for leaking taps and if need be, replace the washers and seals. Run a diagnostics check of your irrigation system strategically section by section assessing for leaks and blockages. Repair any leaking sections and plug any holes. Replace blocked drippers or jets. Make sure you're using the most efficient and appropriate jets or drippers for each section of the garden. Some parts may need 4 litre/hr drippers where other sections might be fine with 2 litre/hr ones. Mulch. I've said it before and I'll say it again, not only does mulching your gardens insulate plants from the radiant heat, but it aids water retention and prevents dehydration. Mulch also serves to nourish and feed your soil as it breaks down. Make adding a generous layer of quality mulch part of your regular seasonal garden maintenance and you'll potentially cut your watering expenses in half. Avoid watering in the hottest part of the day. You're far better off to water early in the morning, giving water the opportunity to soak in and avoid evaporating too quickly. Watering earlier also eliminates the opportunity for fungal issues and disease to arise as a result of excessive moisture overnight. When big rain is forecast, particularly summer storms, set out as many large catchment containers as you have, you’ll be amazed how much extra rainwater you can harvest from a single good downpour. It might just be enough to water all your potted plants for a week. Every drop counts. I have an old bathtub in my yard originally used as a raised garden bed that's no longer used and in need of recycling. In the meantime, every time there's a storm and heavy rains it completely fills giving m enough water to water all my potted plants. I feel like the cat that's got the cream!! 😁 Purchasing and setting up extra rainwater tanks isn’t cheap and isn’t always an option for all so be opportunistic. If you see secondhand shuttles/IBCs for sale and you have a spair bit of space at the back of the garden grab one and set it up. Create a catchment means on top to funnel the rain into it and a tap and the base and straight away, there’s an extra 1,000L of rainwater. Set up wicking beds for your edibles and veggie gardens where possible. They’re a far more efficient, and less wasteful means of hydrating your plants. Check out this link below to a short video where Sophie Thompson of the ABCs Gardening Australia demonstrates setting a wicking bed up using an IBC. It’s very clever! https://youtu.be/obNWr8MD0uU?si=L3kyMReen6Lp6-eZ Implementing as many of these measures as possible should see you saving a lot of money over time. Monitor your quarterly water bills too for exceptionally large spikes in usage and cost. An excessive bill in itself might be enough of a warning that there's a leak or an issue somewhere that needs to be addressed. Keep cool this summer and keep yourself hydrated too. Happy gardening😘🌸🌼💦  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, you’re always welcome to come and join us. A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻

Healthy Indoors plants Written and edited by Tammy 6th March 2025 Diagnosing what’s wrong with a sick or dying plant can be tricky stuff, they can exhibit a whole host of symptoms that may indicate different underlying issues. Environmental conditions, pest infestations, nutrient deficiencies, and diseases all come into play so having an understanding of these elements really is important to be able to diagnose a sick plant successfully. Just as doctors ask questions, listening for clues and observing the physical symptoms, so do I when faced with an unhappy plant. Each symptom can tell a story about the plant's condition and the potential problems it faces. Yellowing leaves might suggest overwatering or nutrient deficiencies, while brown, crispy edges could indicate underwatering or environmental stress. It can be a complex puzzle, and by no means do I profess to have all the answers, but it's those challenges that I enjoy every day. Possible reasons your plant is sick There are three different possible scenarios, a pest, disease, or a disorder. Definitions: Pests- Insects, mites, rodents, animals. Disease- A fungal, viral or bacterial infection. Disorder- Abnormality in the way a plant is growing as a result of incorrect or inconsistencies in water, nutrition or exposure to climatic and soil conditions. What to look for Pests Disease Disorder Evidence of pests Pests eat plants. Sometimes the clues they leave behind can be obvious while other times not so much. Different sized insects and animals AKA 'Pests', leave different evidence of their feastings behind. Mites Mites are microscopic, (barely visible to the naked eye) sap suckers that leave the foliage looking yellow, drained of goodness and washed out. You may even notice fine, almost web-like dust on the under sides of the leaves. They LOVE our indoor plants. Leaf Borers Leaf borers or leaf miners leave wiggly white lines or rather tracks throughout the membranes of the leaves. (pictured above) Also sucking insects, Aphids, mealy bugs, scale, and thrips are all a little larger and visible to the eye. These types of insects often leave their secretions behind called 'Honeydew'. A sweet, sugary substance that goes onto to become black and mouldy, not before the ants come marching in droves! (Recognising scale👉 ) Caterpillars, snails, slugs and grasshoppers The munchers and crunchers! This lot leave obvious holes in the foliage if they leave anything at all! Birds, Rats, Rabbits and Possums Larger pests like these will devour small, tender delectable little seedlings and leave not much more than maybe a stem as evidence that they existed. Possums LOVE our roses and fruit trees. I've seen young fruit trees, and new seasons growth on roses stripped of everything bar the stems of the leaves. (Dealing with snails👉 ) Rabbits, Kangaroos and rural livestock Native wildlife and livestock are renowned for 'ringbarking' young trees (removing the outer layer of the trunk)-but then so can a whipper snipper (ask my passionfruit vine what happened the day I took home a new Makita line trimmer🤭) Larger animals if given the opportunity to get into the veggie patch, may leave your plants crushed, broken and perhaps even pulled from the ground in the way that they graze. Above left- Grasshopper. Centre- Aphids. Right- Earwig. Below left- Mealy bugs. Centre- Scale. Right- White fly. Evidence of disease These next two scenarios are kind of closely connected. Often, disease takes hold in a plant as a result of the same inconsistencies that lead to a diagnosis of a disorder. Avoiding situations that lead to disorders can often prevent them being susceptible to disease. Three of the most commonly seen diseases in our home gardens are Black Spot, Powdery Mildew and Rust, all fungal diseases manageable with fungicides. Copper oxychloride and Lime sulphur are two of the most common fungicides on the market along-side more natural friendly alternatives like milk or bicarb soda. Black Spot Black spot will be all too familiar for anyone who has ever grown roses. Almost always seen on roses towards the later part of the season when they're tired and running out of puff, particularly where there is over crowding of foliage, creating a lack or air circulation. A lack of air circulation combined with the right degree of humidity (moisture in the air) creates the perfect breeding ground for not only black spot, but for most fungal diseases. Early stages will look like perfect round black spots randomly spread over the leaves. As it progresses those leaves lose their green pigmentation turning yellow, then finally falling from the plant. ( Black Spot check out my previous article on black spot and pruning roses👉 ) Powdery Mildew Powdery mildew begins will small powdery white looking blemishes on the leaves and stems. It progresses to cover the entire leaf surface with the foliage eventually shrivelling and dying. Commonly see on Zucchini's, pumpkins, melons and cucumbers. Hydrangeas and grape vines, edible and ornamental are also highly susceptible. ( I'll show you a little more on managing powdery mildew👉 ) Rust Rust is something our farmers are constantly on the lookout for in their wheat and barley crops, it can be a problematic issue for them most seasons. Easily identifiable by the presence of tiny, raised almost fuzzy looking orange, red or brown spots. Keep an eye out for it on veggies like tomatoes, peas and beans, and amongst flowering annuals, calendulas, snapdragons, gerberas, hollyhocks and geraniums will be the most susceptible. Evidence of disorders Diagnosing a disorder can be a lot trickier than an obvious pest infestation or a disease, as a lot more factors come into play. A disorder can be summed up as any situation where a plant doesn't look as it should or isn't performing as it should be relating to water, nutrition, environment or climatic factors. Process of elimination- if there's no evidence of pests, or disease, then it has to be a disorder. (the fun part is establishing which one it is!) Nutritional Deficiencies or Toxicities Nutritional deficiencies or toxicities for want of a better way to describe it, plants need the right proportions of nutrients from all the 'food groups' just like us. Think of the healthy food pyramid, although their food pyramid would look a little different from ours, but the concept is the same. Too much or not enough of one thing will see them screaming out to us with clues ranging from a lack of pigmentation, to curling of leaves, too much pigmentation and crispy burned leaf margins amongst others. HINT** Often a customer will approach me asking for Iron to take home and treat their yellow plant. In some instances, they'll be 'bang on the money' that it is an Iron deficiency, but if you're not 100% certain, resist the temptation to treat is as such, because you could potentially cause further issues poisoning your plant with something it never in fact needed. Always err on the side of caution, do a little homework first. (Checkout this article I wrote a little while ago now on reasons your plant may be yellow👉) Hydration A plant can look wilted and droopy because it's thirsty, on the other hand it can look droopy if it's lacking in oxygen/drowning too. HINT**I mentioned earlier that disorders can sometimes lead to disease? Root rot in indoor plants is a disease that unfortunately occurs as a direct result of too much water/wrong potting medium. What is your watering rescheme? How much water does this particular plant actually need? Has your soil become hydrophobic not allowing it to take in and hold water, or on the other hand, is it holding too much water drowning it, should it be planted in a more, free draining medium? All questions taken into consideration if a hydration disorder is suspected. Burned shrivelled foliage can also be a result of inadequate water. Climatic Conditions, Soil & Light Climatic conditions, soil & light can most definitely come into play when assessing why a plant is unwell or is failing to thrive. Knowing the climate zone and habitat a plant originates from can tell us a lot more about its preferences, and the environment it will most likely thrive in. A plant that originates from a hot, arid climate, quite likely has the ability to store water in its roots or fleshy leaves (think cacti and succulents), some have small fine needle like foliage to minimise the opportunity to burn in the sun and lessen its need for water. (think of native coastal rosemary or saltbush). Plants like these will most likely fail to thrive and struggle in a heavy rich soil in full shade, just as ferns, fuchsias and hydrangeas will quite likely burn and shrivel in sandy soil, in the full hot afternoon sun. Stunning Hydrangeas growing in a sink hole. Mount Gambier SA. Being able to look at a plant and establish what is wrong with it, is not something you can learn overnight. It's knowing what to look for and where. Being able to look at a plant's characteristics, for clues to its origins to know what its preferences are. It's a whole jigsaw puzzle that comes together to build a picture. It's a skill that has taken me personally, years of study along-side working with plants every day to become confident with, and I'm still learning something new every day. We never stop learning. I hope there are some useful clues here that might help you to work out why your plant may be sick. And if all else fails, please reach out, send me a message and we can work it out together. Or our lovely Limestone Coast locals will know where to find me. Keep praying for rain, it's bound to come soon. Happy gardening 😘🪴🌸  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, you’re always welcome to come and join us. A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻

Written and edited by Tammy 7th April 2025 Insect attacked seedlings The biggest question on every gardener's lips right now is “what is eating my seedlings!?" Working out the answer requires a bit of simple detective work, some Sherlock Holmes. It's a case of looking for clues and putting the puzzle pieces together. Slugs and snails Look out for silvery trails all over the foliage and the ground. They need moisture to be able to move around otherwise they're at risk of their bodies drying out. When the weather is hot and dry, they'll be hiding somewhere cool and dark, and most likely, not your culprit. If it's recently been raining and everything is wet, there's a good possibility slugs or snails are to blame. Earwigs, millipedes and beetles Like slugs and snails, these little critters are mostly nocturnal. During the day you'll find them hiding in the dark under rocks, logs and debris. They are renowned for chomping tender little seedlings off at the stems. If you don't see the evidence pointing to snails, you could perhaps suspect these critters. Earwigs and millipedes LOVE soft, sweet, delectable strawberries. They'll be hiding beneath the mulch surrounding them. Caterpillars On mild, calm days keep an eye out for cabbage moths flitting around. They're known as cabbage moths for a good reason. They absolutely LOVE Brassicas, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Broccoli, and Brussell sprouts. They most often lay their eggs on the undersides of the foliage of your plants. The eggs hatch and hungry little caterpillars emerge. Lime green in colour, they camouflage well and discreetly chomp away at the underside of the leaves. As with snails and earwigs they can decimate a crop of seedlings very quickly, almost overnight. Aphids will be obvious in daylight hours, you'll see them infesting new young shoots and foliage, roses are a favourite for them. They are sap suckers and will leave the new growth looking limp, yellow, and drained of life. Another indication aphids are at work is the sticky secretion they leave behind, honeydew, which in turn brings the ants in droves. Rodents and native wildlife It's not always just grubs, bugs and creepy crawlies. Particularly if you live rurally or on the outskirts of town, mice, rats, rabbits and even birds don't mind a bit of greenery in their diets too. Make sure you install some rodent mesh around your veggie patch. Other than the missing vegetable seedlings, they leave evidence such as tracks, footprints and droppings. Vigilance and prevention are always better than cure. When you plant out new seedlings, don't be afraid to lay out some pet friendly snail bait around them. Cover them up with insect mesh so they physically can't get to them. Plant them in raised beds further out of reach of ground dwelling critters. When you are watering them daily, get down amongst them and check there's nothing crawling around on or beneath the foliage. Look for some clues and hopefully you'll be able to determine for yourself exactly who your culprit is. Happy Gardening😘🌱🌸  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, you’re always welcome to come and join us. A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻

Cold frosty morning Updated by Tammy 21st May 2025 Frosts are among the greatest adversaries for gardeners throughout the colder months. Days with clear, sunny skies often lead to subzero temperatures overnight, causing frosts to occur. Without being pro-active and having measures in place, the results can be detrimental. So, what happens to our plants when they're exposed to frost? When our plants are exposed to frost, this is what happens: 1. Plant Tissues Freeze: The sub-zero temperatures cause the water within the plant cells to freeze. 2. Cell Damage : The cell walls and membranes of the plant then become physically damaged due to the formation of ice crystals within those cells. 3. Disruption of Cell Functions : The frozen water expands causing the cells to burst. Once this happens, the cells cease to function as they should. 4. Dehydration : As the plant begins to thaw out, the damaged cells can no longer retain water properly, which leads to dehydration. 5. Wilting and Discoloration : The affected parts of the plant then start to wilt, turn black, or become discoloured as a result of the frost damage. 6. Reduced Photosynthesis : Once plant tissues are damaged to that extent, they're no longer able to photosynthesize effectively, which can further weaken the plant. 7. Increased Vulnerability : A plant that survives frost burn will often be more vulnerable to diseases, pests, and other environmental stresses. Tips for Preventing Frostburn Not quite an umbrella plant Vigilance Cover up Location Mobility Protectant formulations Timing of pruning Vigilance Watch and listen to the daily weather forecasts. Pay attention to the predicted minimum and maximum temperatures for the proceeding day. Be prepared to cover your vulnerable plants that night when sub-zero temperatures are forecast. Cover up Cover them up. Check out the image below. My Seedlings at work, every night I 'tuck them in😁' It takes me no more than a couple of minutes to roll some 'Frost cloth' out over them. Frost cloth is a re-usable product for covering plants that still allows them to breathe, while insulating them and preventing frost from settling on them. You'll find frost cloth at most major leading outlets and online. My babies at work all tucked in for the night An alternative to frost cloth might be an old sheet or a tarp supported by some sticks or hardwood stakes. You could even cover your plants with old plastic two litre milk containers or icecream containers. Be creative and utilise anything you've got to be able to cover them. Location Consider where you plant your seedlings or plants. Is there an alternative location in your yard that's more sheltered and protected, less exposed to frosts? Perhaps beneath some large established evergreen trees. Make them mobile You might be someone who doesn't have the option of planting out into the garden. For renters, or perhaps elderly who find it's physically challenging to get down on the ground to garden, it might be an option for you to have your plants in large mobile planters, raised beds, or pots on wheels or caddies. Making your plants mobile gives you the convenience of being able to move them around to expose them to sun throughout the day, then move them back under shelter at night. Protectant Treating your plants with a frost and sunburn protectant is another option particularly advantageous for larger vulnerable plants that it's less practical to cover. Look for the product called 'Envy'. Envy has been formulated by an Australian company based in Qld called  Agrobest.   The product is designed to protect plants from ALL environmental climatic stresses. The active ingredient is a water-based polymer that's non-toxic, pH neutral and biodegradable.  When it's applied to your plants it covers the foliage with an invisible membrane, protecting them from frosts, sunburn, windburn, and wilting from excessive moisture loss. It doesn't prevent them from being able to photosynthesize and breathe (take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen). You can find the product online through The Garden Super Store based in QLD.  Here's a link to their website Garden Shop | 1000's Of Products | The Garden Superstore Envy Frost and Sunburn Protectant Timing of pruning As with our roses, some plants are better off NOT to be pruned too heavily until the time of the season, when the risk of frosts has lessened. Most plants in general will slow down with their growth over the colder months, when the days lengths are shorter, and there is less sunshine and warmth. Pruning and feeding some plants too soon prior to Spring may encourage a flush of fresh new growth leaving in vulnerable frosts. Gardening is so rewarding, in more ways than I can mention, but it can be costly too. When it comes to some of the unexpected nasty frosts we often have here in our region, it's worth going that extra mile to implement a few measures to safeguard your plants, ensuring their health and survival. By taking proactive steps such as following the weather forecasts, covering your plants, and considering you planting location options, you can minimize the risks associated with frost damage and promote the longevity of your garden. Remember, prevention is key in preventing frostburn! Happy Gardening😘🪴  Want a little more support in your garden? If you're enjoying my blogs, hints n tips here, and ever find yourself wishing you had someone to ask, “Is this normal?”  or “What should I be doing right now?” , that’s exactly why I created The Backyard . Inside, you’ll find my in-depth, practical gardening guides , a weekly “What to do in the garden this week” update  (so you’re never guessing what’s timely), and the option to chat one-on-one with me  about plant pests, diseases, or garden mysteries as they pop up. It’s a bit like having me right there in your own backyard keeping an eye on things, helping you problem-solve, and cheering you on as your garden grows 🌿 If that sounds helpful, you’re always welcome to come and join us. A peek at what you’ll find inside....The Backyard My 26 page guide to becoming a 'Plant Doctor'. Learn to identify and deal with all the common pests, diseases and disorders. A 20 page detailed look at what hydrophobic soil is, how to fix it and prevent it ever happening again. A lovely little 16 page guide to water saving practices and plant recommendations for a drying climate. Come join me in The Backyard today💚👉🏻