How to help your plants over Summer

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Happy belated New Year!

I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Christmas, New Year, and holiday break.

I'm excited to announce that I received funding to run my first independent pottery workshop! I'm a little nervous about the organising and promotion of it. Keep an eye out for finalise details. I previously have run workshops through the Otorohanga Creative Conduit, which I will continue to do as well.

But doing it myself has been one of my goals.

Markets

I've been trying out the market scene more seriously lately, attending more than I usually do. While I'm finding the days long, tiring, and a lot of work (I doubt anyone who hasn't done markets considers just how much effort is involved!), they're a great way to reach people beyond my social media and website followers.

The pre-market prep is a huge undertaking. It's not just choosing what to bring; it's also packing the vehicle with everything: price tags, the gazebo, the float, tablecloths, display stands, and a whole host of "just-in-case" items (string, dog clips, ropes, hammers, and so much more).

Then there's arriving early (usually two hours before the start), setting up, and pricing everything. Plus, you must ensure your display can withstand wind and rain. After standing for five or more hours, it's time to reverse the whole packing process. While many people browse the stalls, they can be hesitant to stop and look. I try to remind them that even a quick chat is appreciated!

It's always more enjoyable when people stop for a quick chat.

If you see me at a market, please come and introduce yourself! I love meeting fellow plant enthusiasts and those who have supported me online. I add the upcoming markets I will attend to my website, but sometimes I don’t get time.

I love sharing our latest creations with you on Facebook and Instagram! Our website has limited product listings, so that's the best place to see everything. Let me know if you have any questions.

New Products

I've been busy making more pottery fidget rocks and lucky stars lately. These small, tactile items are designed to help release tension.

I'm adding them to keychain clips so they're always within easy reach.

Crinium Bulbs

I have some old-fashioned crinium bulbs that need new homes.

The bulbs can grow as big as footballs. They prefer some shade, as the ones in full sun get sunburnt over summer. They have just finished flowering for the year and are beginning to subside. The plants grow quite tall, especially when they flower, so they need adequate space.

Let me know if anyone wants them.

Or else, I will find somewhere to replant them. Let me know asap.

Daffodil Bulbs

These were dug up, when we changed some parts of our garden.

I can not remember what colour they are, but fairly certain they are trumpet types.

Contact me direct.

$15.00 + postage approx 25 bulbs

Thirsty plants in summer.

Since summer has finally shown itself, it feels like I'm constantly watering my plants. I was asked the other day what my watering schedule was – weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. The answer is none of the above!

I water my plants when they tell me they need it. Some will look a little shrunken, while others will droop noticeably. Hoyas are perfect for a quick test: gently flick the edge of a leaf. If it's flexible, it needs water; if it's firm, it doesn't.

Feeling the weight of the pot, checking underneath, or examining the soil are other reliable ways to gauge their thirst.

I water all my plants with a hose, but I've grouped them according to their needs. This way, I avoid overwatering those that require less moisture or are dormant. Generally, one thorough watering session is all they get until they show signs of needing more. Passing over the plants 2-3 times, ensure that the water penetrates the root ball and doesn’t just run down the sides.

Gently tip out a plant into your palm, and observe how wet the root ball is, is a valuable way to check your watering success.

I often see photos on Facebook of plants that have dried out. The owners say they've watered them, but...

To help revive these thirsty plants, I recommend a good soak. Find a deep container, fill it with water, and add a dash of Seasol if you have it. Submerge the entire pot and plant—it might even try to float! Keep the soil submerged until the bubbles stop rising. Then, drain thoroughly and return it to its usual spot. A little shade will also help. Make sure the pot isn't sitting directly on concrete.

More relative to Succulents and Cacti, but still about watering plants Blog

Plant Care Guides

I have recently begun writing my own plant care guides, for those types of plants that I sell. I still need to add more categories, but if you want to check out what I have done so far, then go here.