September’s tree of the month is an indigenous tree that is also called the ‘Wild pear’ or ‘Drolpeer’
Dombeya is part of the family of the Cocoa tree.
This hardy tree grows to a height of about 6 to 7.5 meters.
It is a bushy tree.
A mass of creamy white flowers are produced in spring and is an impressive sight not to be missed. The whole tree is transformed into a white cloud.
The tree resembles that of a pear tree when in flower.
It is a deciduous tree which will allow for the much needed sun during the cold winter months.
The leaves are dark green and leathery.
It is an easy tree to grow and not too slow. Ideal for an indigenous garden that requires less watering.
Medicinally the Zulus make an infusion of the bark or wood. This is used treat intestinal ulcers, fever, infertility, syphilis and haemorrhoids
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WHAT TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH
It is spring!
Sow all annuals promptly.
Worthwhile annuals include:
- Ageratum
- Alyssum
- Cleome
- Gazania
- Gaillardia
- Lavatera
- Nicotiana
- Portulaca
- Verbena
- Zinnia
Division of certain perennial groundcovers or bulbs should take place as soon as possible!
Examples includes: Agapanthus, Cannas, and Arums etc.
Clean your ponds now and if necessary divide the waterlilies.This is the last opportunity before summer.
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BULBS TO PLANT FOR SUMMER
- Cannas
- Crocosmia
- Cyrtanthus
- Dahlia
- Eucomis (Indigenous)
- Gladiolus (Indigenous)
- Haemanthus (Indigenous)
- Nerine (Indigenous)
- Ornithogalum (Indigenous)
- Scadoxus (Indigenous)
- Scilla (Indigenous)
- Tulbaghia (Indigenous)
- Zanthedeschia (Indigenous)
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CUTTINGS
Take lots of cuttings to propagate fresh plants.
CREEPERS
A number of creepers are now producing long shoots. If you require a compact creeper then it is time to pinch these long shoots.
FEEDING
Feed all plants using lots of Compost tea and Manure tea.
VEGETABLES
Sow the following now:
- Beetroot
- Broccoli
- Baby spinach
- Eggplant
- Carrots
- Lettuce
- Beans
- Pumpkin
- Radish
- Tomatoes
- Chillies
HERBS
Sow the seeds of the required herbs now. They do not germinate quickly so be patient with them once sown.
TIP OF THE MONTH
Keep spraying your Clivias and Crinums with a Garlic and Chilli spray to protect it against worms.
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DOMBEYA ROTUNDIFOLIA
ASK DAWID
Your garden questions or information you wish to share
E-mail me at: admin@dawidkloppergardens.co.za
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