Bromeliads originally mainly come from the tropical and sub-tropical parts of South America. They are usually identified by their spiky leaves, which are often quite colourful. Many bromeliads are epiphytic, meaning that they grow independently on other plants. This can help with guidelines on their preferences for positions in the garden as they often prefer to be in a position of semi-shade, in a pot that has been suspended from a railing, fence or framework, so that they can drain freely after watering or a period of rain.

However, some bromeliads grow very happily when planted in a garden bed, in a shady area of the garden. If a plant seems not be thriving in a certain position, then it may be advisable to change it to somewhere else.

Watering is an efficient process for many bromeliads, because of their structure. Many have their leaves radiating from a central section that also acts as storage for water. This means watering usually is only required if there hasn’t been rain for a while.

Bromeliads come in a wide range of leaf colours and these, as well as the shape of the leaves are the main attractions for the plants. Leaf patterns can include stripes and splashes of colour, with colours including purple, pink, red, orange, bronze, cream, yellow, cream, white and green.

An interesting characteristic of some bromeliads is that the leaf colour can intensify when the plant is in flower. A plant that usually has a reddish-bronze colour can turn a brilliant, deep red as its flowers appear. 

Bromeliads can be propagated for sharing with family or friends by breaking off the new, young plants that come from the base of the parent plant. These should be placed into a loose, friable potting mix and, when the plant is established, placed into a position similar to that of the parent plant.

House plants, plants that are grown mainly indoors, can suffer from diseases. It is important to keep the plants well-hydrated, particularly when air-conditioners and fans are being used for cooling, as these will soon cause leaves to dry out.

Spraying with water, using something like an ironing spray bottle, will maintain hydration levels. Placing plants outside when rain occurs will also be most beneficial to the plants. However, it is most important to remember to take the plants back inside so that they are not subject to the strong rays of the sun later on.

Old and diseased leaves should be removed from plants.

One of the main problems that will affect indoor plants is scale. Scale appears as small grey-white spots, generally on the undersides of leaves. These can be removed by gently rubbing the leaf surface.

Scales are sucking insects that feed on the juices of the plant. The spots that appear are actually a protective covering for the insects underneath. Because of this factor, an application of an oil-based product, such as Eco-Oil will be required in order to suffocate the insect. It will also provide a repellant that will discourage further infestations. It is important to ensure that the under surfaces of the leaves are sprayed.

A liquid fertiliser will encourage new growth.

Care needs to be taken with watering routines for indoor plants. In fact, many indoor plants die because of over-watering. Rather, it is preferable to allow plants to have dry times between waterings. Pushing a finger into the top soil will indicate if water is needed. If the soil feels damp, and sticks to the finger then watering is not required. Spring and summer will lead to increased watering needs, while less will be required during the cooler months.

Onions are A very useful vegetable to include in the home garden. They have quite a wide variety of uses – salads, dips, stir fries and soups. Onions are generally easy to grow and can be harvested between 6 and 8 months from planting from seed.

Seeds of onions prefer to be planted out in cooler soils so they can become established before periods of hotter weather. Seedlings can be thinned so that plants are between 5 and 10cm apart.

Plants will be ready for harvesting when the tops start to dry and fall over. The bulbs should be pulled from the soil and left to dry for a few days. They can then be stored in a cool, dry airy place. The use of a net bag would be most suitable.

Brown onions have a strong and pungent flavour and are usually good keepers for storage purposes. White onions are milder but still have a good flavour. They keep fairly well. Red onions are suitable for use raw in salads and sandwiches, because of their mild flavour.

Spring onions are grown for their tops. They do not form a bulb. Instead, their green tops are used. Spring onions can be sown all year round. Shallots, garlic and chives are also members of the onion family.

Maitland and District Garden Club will celebrate its 50th Birthday on Saturday, 25 March, 2017 and would like to contact former members (49333703).