Given the beautiful weather yesterday afternoon, I was out continuing clean up efforts in the gardens here at Struan Farm. Before everything well and truly gets out of hand. Cottage gardens look like they're just left to it, but I can assure you that's far from the case. A considerable amount of work needs to be done early in the season, and during transitions, to keep things looking good.
I'd noticed that one of our leucadendron "Safari Sunset" shrubs was listing to one side, and had something woody coming up from the middle that looked suspiciously like nightshade. It was the sort of thing that wasn't going to pull out, so I decided it was best to give the shrub a good prune and then cut and paste the woody weed with a poison gel. You will know I don't use chemical sprays around the place for various reasons (two bouts of cancer mainly). But I do use this gel tactically when I have to for things that can't be pulled out, since it's easy to apply and control.
The next decision was what to do with all the leucadendron cuttings. I decided to put together some bunches in jars and a tin to put out at the Piopio Community Fruit & Veg Stand, and of course kept one for our table. They last a long time and when flowers are in short supply are a reasonable substitute or good to mix into the equation.
They're a bit of an acquired taste, but hopefully people will enjoy them.
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