Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Environmentality, 19th June 2013

Hello Environmentality listeners,

Our resident gardening expert, Jodie, returned this week after a long absence. It was certainty good to have Jodie back! Ahmed, Jaime and Fola chatted to Jodie about what we can do in the garden during winter.

Just because it is cold outside doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be out in the garden, there’s still plenty to do. It’s bare rooted season so we should be planting things like potatoes, garlic, root vegetables, turnips, parsnips, cabbage, Asian greens and peas. Jodie’s recommendation if you’re confused, “think soups”. Winter time is also a great time to be preparing the ground with lots of organic matter, putting down mulch around the vegie patch and fruit trees.   

Some councils also provide free mulching. More about Hume City Council’s free mulch day can be found here.

Thinking about starting a new garden? Jodie suggests winter is the good time to start; it’s cool and not too hot to be working outside. Now is also a good time for green manures (putting organic matter into the soil). You can go to your local farm supplies and get some broad beans. Once germinated, once they are knee height you can turn it into the soil to be broken down for spring.

First step for first time gardeners, if you’re unsure about your soil, check the pH levels. pH kits can be found at your local garden stores or you can make your own from red cabbage! And don’t be afraid of clay, clay is full of minerals that are fantastic for the soil. To break up the clay, composting and cultivating with green matter.

A rainy, there’s still lots we can do. Think outside the box! Here’s Jodie’s list:
  • Tool maintenance: sharpening, cleaning and oiling
  • Process your seed: sorting and milling
  • Work on your garden diary: take notes on your garden every now and then
  • Stare out the window: reflect on your garden

Jodie’s advice if you’re busy? Everyone can do 15 mins to 30 mins in the garden every day.

To hear all of Jodie’s great advice, don’t forget to listento the podcast!

Tracks Played:
Smooth Criminal - Alien Ant Farm
Tell me how it ends- Bernard Fanning
Departures- Bernard Fanning
Circles- Mark Moroney  

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