Recent articles by Justin Russell
![Spring floral beauties Great yellow cornflower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/OG 120_Great yellow cornflower_istock-500x387.jpg)
Spring floral beauties
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Looking for flowering plants for your spring garden? Justin Russell suggests adding these four bright blooms - they'll bring both colour and pollinators to your patch!
![Growing blackberries in abundance You can either go foraging for blackberries or grow them yourself.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Justin Russell_Blackberries-500x500.jpg)
Growing blackberries in abundance
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Summer is time for fresh berries and Justin Russell tells us we can grow them in our backyards in abundance - a chance to ditch the plastic and have your own supply!
![The power of pollination The male Blue Tiger butterfly collects pollen as it contains pheromones that make it attractive to the female.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/EFF4FX_HR-500x500.jpg)
The power of pollination
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Pollination is necessary for our gardens to thrive so it's handy to understand how we can help all those beneficial insects and animals do their work.
![Crop rotation Vegie beds at Buena Vista farm.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Buena Vista farm_Andy Zakeli-500x350.jpg)
Crop rotation
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Justin Russell says it's good to have a crop rotation plan in place to avoid pest and disease build up – here's some basics.
![Preserving lemons Preserving Lemons](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/PreservedLemons-500x500.jpg)
Preserving lemons
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When there's a glut of lemons in your garden, you can share them with friends and, with this recipe from Justin Russell, you can preserve them for later use! Nothing wasted!
![Pickled gherkins Justin Russell's pickled gherkins](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Pickled-gherkins_Justin-Russell-500x500.jpg)
Pickled gherkins
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Experiencing a cucumber glut in your garden? That's not such a bad thing, according to Justin Russell, who has heaps in his patch. His advice? Start pickling!
![Build a bed for your vegies Build a bed for your vegies](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Raised beds_November 3_2-500x333.jpg)
Build a bed for your vegies
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Planning your vegie patch? Justin Russell answers the question many of you might be asking: are raised beds right for me?
![How to protect limes from pests Spring is the best time to plant lime trees.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/121 limes_istock-500x350.jpg)
How to protect limes from pests
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Limes look gorgeous in your garden and add a tasty tang to meals in your kitchen -- so you don't want pests getting to them before you do.
![The Green Rhubarb Blues The Green Rhubarb Blues](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Rhubarb-500x500.jpeg)
The Green Rhubarb Blues
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Have you got the green rhubarb blues? JUSTIN RUSSELL offers some tips on how you can grow red rhubarb, and why it's one of his all-time favourite plants.
![Planning your garden Planning your garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Vegies_Kirsten Bresciani-500x350.jpg)
Planning your garden
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Justin Russell explains how to stagger planting times so you don't end up with too little or too much of the vegies you love best.
![Chill factor Chill factor](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Chill factor-500x350.jpg)
Chill factor
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Lots of vegies love the cold and are sweeter for a frost. Justin Russell tells how to take advantage of this while also protecting plants.
![Build a garden not a bunker Build a garden not a bunker](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/iStock-838165460_build a garden_114-500x500.jpg)
Build a garden not a bunker
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Justin Russell looks for food that will provide resilience, nourishment and productivity in a changing world.
![Bush foods – good for you and the environment Finger limes are also called caviar lime.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/iStock-874145604-500x500.jpg)
Bush foods – good for you and the environment
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Bush foods are a good option to plant in your garden, says Justin Russell, especially as they are adapted to our hot climate and are often incredibly rich in nutrients.
![Making every part count Making every part count](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Turnip_istock-500x500.jpg)
Making every part count
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Justin Russell explains ways to make the most of root to leaf edibility, an idea that has been used for generations by frugal kitchens. Winter soups are just the start!
![How to grow beetroot How to grow beetroot](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Beetroot_Alan Benson-500x500.jpg)
How to grow beetroot
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Justin Russell explains how to grow flavoursome, colourful beets that your family and friends will swoon over.
![Pears: cool season fruit to grow in your backyard Beurre bosc is a vigorous and productive heirloom.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Alamy_beurre bosc pear.jpg)
Pears: cool season fruit to grow in your backyard
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Fresh is best when it comes to pears as they are a very fragile fruit. Justin Russell looks at the many reasons for growing your own tree, including their ability to thrive and grow fruit in a variety of climates.
![Cool-season pruning Cool-season pruning](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/iStock-178561509_citrus-pruning-500x500.jpg)
Cool-season pruning
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Before you start pruning, there's a few things you need to consider, writes Justin Russell.
![Greenhouse growing Greenhouse growing](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/PolytunnelTasmanianFarm-JR_small-500x500.jpg)
Greenhouse growing
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You can use a structure such as a greenhouse to modify climate conditions, says Justin Russell, protecting plants or extending the growing season for cold-sensitive crops.
![It’s a jungle in here It's a jungle in here](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/iStock-1080347364-indoor plant_Ctenanthe burle-500x500.jpg)
It’s a jungle in here
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Our living rooms are being taken over by plants – and it’s good for us in many different ways! Justin Russell shares his indoor plant care tips to help you get started.
![What to plant in February Purple cabbage](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_5406-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in February
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It's horrid weather for planting, says Justin Russell, but try to get some winter crop seeds sown into punnets.
![What to plant in January Taro](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/IMG_0028-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in January
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Justin Russell reminds us that the summer solstice has passed and the sun is lowering in the sky.
![Getting intensive Seeder](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Seeder PW-500x500.jpg)
Getting intensive
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Justin Russell investigates a selection of tools and equipment for ambitious gardeners and aspiring market gardens
![What to plant in December Sweetcorn](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Sweetcorn-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in December
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Want to know the secret to an extended summer harvest season? Read on for Justin Russell's December planting suggestions.
![Vegie crops to plant in October Corn Seedlings](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/LateCornCrop-500x500.jpg)
Vegie crops to plant in October
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Looking for something productive to do this weekend? Check out Justin Russell's October plantings.
![September: time to start planting seeds Bean Seed](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/BeanSeeds-500x500.jpg)
September: time to start planting seeds
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Justin Russell's ideas for what to plant in September, wherever you garden in Australia.
![Corn fights back 'Glass gem' heirloom corn](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/J5HNT3-500x413.jpg)
Corn fights back
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Justin Russell introduces the world of heirloom corn, including eating, flour and popping cultivars.
![What to plant in July Mustard Greens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Mustard-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in July
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Depending on your climate, July's either a great month to plant vegies, or a time to hibernate, says Justin Russell.
![On regenerative farming and gardening Broadforking](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Broadforking-500x500.jpg)
On regenerative farming and gardening
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Is the term 'regenerative' in danger of becoming a new buzzword? Justin Russell investigates.
![Gardening jobs for May Shade Trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/AvocadoTreeShade-500x500.jpg)
Gardening jobs for May
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Justin Russell suggests two jobs to do this month to help your garden deal with a changing climate.
![Pea shoots and leaves Pea shoots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_1608-500x500.jpg)
Pea shoots and leaves
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Autumn is prime pea-growing time, not just for pods but for shoots as well. Justin Russell has the lowdown.
![How to sharpen your tools Sharpening secateurs](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/B3 - Sharpening Secateurs-500x413.jpg)
How to sharpen your tools
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Well-maintained tools make gardening jobs safer and easier. Justin Russell shows how to keep them sharp.
![Gardening jobs for April Autumn Light](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/AprilLight-500x500.jpg)
Gardening jobs for April
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With its golden light and pleasant working conditions, autumn is a magical time of the year to be gardener, says Justin Russell.
![What to plant in April Grow your own vegetables](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Fresh veg Kirsten Bresciani-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in April
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With summer heat starting to fizzle across most of the country, Justin Russell says it's a great time to plant!
![April planting ideas Crimson Broad Beans](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/CrimsonBroadBean-500x500.jpg)
April planting ideas
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Mid-autumn is a lovely time to plant some seeds for a winter harvest. Check out Justin Russell's April planting guide.
![New seed security threat seed security at risk](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_2214 (1)-500x500.jpg)
New seed security threat
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A review of the import of brassica seed is a threat to small farmers, seed suppliers and our nation's food sovereignty, says Justin Russell.
![Gardening jobs for March Green Manure](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Green Manure-500x500.jpg)
Gardening jobs for March
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Justin Russell reckons it's time to take advantage of pleasant autumn weather and get stuck into gardening jobs.
![Bountiful broccoli Green sprouting broccoli](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/004 Green Sprouting Calabresebroccoli PENNY WOODWARD-500x413.jpg)
Bountiful broccoli
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Broccoli isn't just a one-head wonder, you can encourage multiple harvests of delicious side shoots. Justin Russell shows you how.
![Time to start planting cool season crops Romanesco Broccoli](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Romanesco-500x500.jpg)
Time to start planting cool season crops
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February is the ideal month to start thinking about cool season planting says Justin Russell.
![Gardening jobs for January Qld Fruit Fly](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/QldFruitFly-500x500.jpg)
Gardening jobs for January
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Join Justin Russell in 2018 for seasonal gardening tips to keep your patch thriving.
![All bottled up pickling cucumbers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/650x320Newsletter_Pickles-500x320.jpg)
All bottled up
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Cucumbers aren't just salad extras. You'll want to give them a starring role as pickles with Justin Russell's recipe.
![What to do in October Mulching](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Mulching-500x500.jpg)
What to do in October
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With an early spring giving way to summer in some parts of Oz, Justin Russell suggests jobs to help your garden cope.
![What to plant in October Climbing Beans](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/ClimbingBeans-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in October
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Not sure whether to plant a pumpkin or a pommelo in October? Check out Justin Russell's seasonal spring guide.
![Eggplants aplenty! Eggplant harvest](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/OG96Eggplants620x350-500x350.jpg)
Eggplants aplenty!
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Justin Russell investigates the best eggplant varieties for your garden plus growing, harvesting and storage advice.
![Raising your own seedlings Raising seeds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/iStock-157311647-500x420.jpg)
Raising your own seedlings
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Justin Russell explains how to raise your own seedlings in a homemade seed-raising mix.
![What to plant in September harvested beetroot](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/BeetrootMedium-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in September
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Hello spring! It's time to get your hands dirty in the garden writes Justin Russell.
![Grape expectations Table grapes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/650x320Newsletter_Grapes-500x320.jpg)
Grape expectations
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Justin Russell shares a bunch of tips for growing table grapes, including the best choices for your climate.
![Gardening jobs for July Garden Bed Preparation](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/IncorporatingGreenManure-500x500.jpg)
Gardening jobs for July
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Justin Russell discovers a new found love for July and suggests some warming winter gardening action.
![What to plant in June Winter salads](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Salads-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in June
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Don't be tempted to hibernate because winter is here, says Justin Russell, there's still plenty of planting to be done in June.
![Simple espalier technique Espaliered apple](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/NewsletterMREC620x350C-500x350.jpg)
Simple espalier technique
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Justin Russell shows you a simple espalier technique, perfect for small-space growing, plus his top 10 trees for training.
![Not too fancy leeks Not too fancy leeks](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/OG93Leek620x350-3-500x350.jpg)
Not too fancy leeks
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Subtle in flavour and appearance, the humble leek is all understated style, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![Garden jobs for March Dividing Chives](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/DividingChives-500x500.jpg)
Garden jobs for March
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March is no time to rest on your laurels, says JUSTIN RUSSELL. Read his tips for autumn gardening.
![March planting guide Ruby Chard](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Braeside Ruby Chard-500x500.jpg)
March planting guide
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JUSTIN RUSSELL has ideas for what you can plant now, no matter if your place is hot, cool or somewhere in between.
![February garden jobs Bean Trio](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/BeanTrio-500x500.jpg)
February garden jobs
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Gardening is a happiness booster, says JUSTIN RUSSELL. Check out his February tips.
![February planting tips Autumn Lettuce](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/AutumnLettuce-500x500.jpg)
February planting tips
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Late summer is a mixed bag of weather across Australia. Check out JUSTIN RUSSELL's guide to February planting.
![Secret to an organic lawn Mixed herbage lawn](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/MixedHerbageLawn-500x500.jpg)
Secret to an organic lawn
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In organic circles, lawns are oft seen as unsustainable. But it's possible to grow one organically, says JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![December gardening jobs zinnias](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Zinnias-500x500.jpg)
December gardening jobs
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Time in the garden can be hard to find during the silly season. Try JUSTIN RUSSELL's tips for quick garden jobs this December.
![Gardening jobs for November Apple fruitlets](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/AppleFruitletsProtectiveClayMedium-500x400.jpg)
Gardening jobs for November
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As spring morphs into summer, check out JUSTIN RUSSELL's handy gardening guide.
![What to plant in November November planting](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/capsicums-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in November
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With November just around the corner, JUSTIN RUSSELL introduces you to a month of planting for abundance.
![How to control fruit fly Exclusion Bagging](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Exclusion Bag-500x500.jpg)
How to control fruit fly
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JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests ways to keep destructive fruit fly at bay so you can enjoy your organically grown fruit.
![The mighty capsicum Super fruit: capsicums](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Blog_Capsicum620x350-500x350.jpg)
The mighty capsicum
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JUSTIN RUSSELL gets to the seedy heart of capsicums and comes to the conclusion we'd be 'stuffed' without them.
![Controlling fruit fly Controlling fruit fly](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Exclusion Bag-500x414.jpg)
Controlling fruit fly
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It's time to start thinking about protecting your summer crops from fruit fly. Justin Russell has a few solutions that will help.
![October gardening jobs Fruit Fly Crop Protection](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Apple Pouch-500x500.jpg)
October gardening jobs
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No matter where you garden, JUSTIN RUSSELL's timely advice will keep your plot healthy and productive.
![Planting tips for October Eggplant harvest](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Eggplant620x350-500x350.jpg)
Planting tips for October
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In many areas, October has bid farewell to spring but hasn't fully welcomed summer. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his tips on what to plant now.
![Restoring sodden soil Saturated Soil](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/PostFloodGarden-500x500.jpg)
Restoring sodden soil
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JUSTIN RUSSELL explores some gentle techniques to help restore your wet, wet, wet soil.
![Time to start planting your summer vegies Time to start planting your summer vegies](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/SpringOnions-500x500.jpg)
Time to start planting your summer vegies
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Welcome spring! Get outside and plant your hands in the dirt writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![Gardening jobs for September lemon tree flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Blog_LemonBlossom_620x350-500x350.jpg)
Gardening jobs for September
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Got plans this weekend? JUSTIN RUSSELL recommends a two-day dose of gardening.
![Spring seed sowing 101 Seed Packets](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/SeedPackets-500x500.jpg)
Spring seed sowing 101
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Confused about which seed to sow where? Not sure which potting mix to use? JUSTIN RUSSELL has you covered.
![Ancient grains Ancient grains](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Blog_Grains_ 620x350-500x350.jpg)
Ancient grains
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From chia and quinoa to buckwheat and amaranth, ancient grains are being rediscovered, so why not try your hand at growing these highly nutritious pseudo-cereals that are also gluten free, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![What to plant in August planting beetroot seedlings](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/OG90_blog_beetroot 620x350-500x350.jpg)
What to plant in August
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To know what to sow now, wherever you are across Oz, check out JUSTIN RUSSELL's guide to August planting.
![Gardening jobs for August Pruning winter trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/OrganicGardener_Website_pruning 620x350px-500x350.jpg)
Gardening jobs for August
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JUSTIN RUSSELL heralds the approach of Spring with a flurry of August gardening jobs.
![Gardening jobs for June June frost](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/JacksPaddockFrostMedium-500x500.jpg)
Gardening jobs for June
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JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests rugging up and making the most of gardening in cooler weather. Read his tips here.
![What to plant in May Artichoke division](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Artichoke division-500x500.jpg)
What to plant in May
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Take advantage of forecast rain this month with JUSTIN RUSSELL's planting tips for a wide range of perennial and annual crops.
![March planting ideas Perpetual Spinach](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/PerpetualSpinach-500x500.jpg)
March planting ideas
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With a good chance of decent autumn rains on the way JUSTIN RUSSELL says it's time to get planting!
![Get ready for the cool season in February Eggplants](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Eggplants-500x500.jpg)
Get ready for the cool season in February
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Summer is gradually coming to a close, which according to JUSTIN RUSSELL, means time to get planting cool season crops.
![What to do in January Nectarine Pruning](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/NectarinePruning-2-500x500.jpg)
What to do in January
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A whiff of optimism in the air is inspiring JUSTIN RUSSELL to get stuck into the pruning and weeding.
![Weekend jobs in Spring Fruit Fly Protection](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Apple Pouch-500x500.jpg)
Weekend jobs in Spring
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Got anything planned for the long weekend? JUSTIN RUSSELL says scrap 'em, and spend the weekend enjoying three straight days of gardening bliss instead.
![October: your gardening to-do list Climbing Beans](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/ClimbingBeans-500x500.jpg)
October: your gardening to-do list
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October is a funny old month. In many climate zones, it feels like October has said goodbye to spring but hasn't quite embraced summer. Not to worry, No matter where you garden, JUSTIN RUSSELL says it's time to get cracking. Check out his tips for what you can plant this month.
![Grow your own mulch mulch](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/ChopDropMulch-500x500.jpg)
Grow your own mulch
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With an El Nino threatening a dry spring, mulching may prove vital, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![The birds and the bees Apple blossom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/AnnaBlossom-500x500.jpg)
The birds and the bees
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JUSTIN RUSSELL discusses the birds, the bees and the mysteries of fruit tree pollination.
![Weather versus climate Snow in the NSW Blue Mountains July 17 2015](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/IMG_1471-500x500.jpg)
Weather versus climate
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Current cold weather has social media in a frenzy, but JUSTIN RUSSELL says, don't believe the hype - it's winter after all.
![July is for bed building Raised Garden Beds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/KynochRdAfternoon-500x500.jpg)
July is for bed building
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JUSTIN RUSSELL says, “now is the hour for all good gardeners to build a bed”!
![The wonders of watercress Watercress](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Watercress-500x500.jpg)
The wonders of watercress
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Contrary to opinion, watercress is easy to grow, says JUSTIN RUSSELL, plus it's a nutritional powerhouse!
![Grow like a boss Vegie Patch](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ThistlebrookAfternoonLight-500x500.jpg)
Grow like a boss
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JUSTIN RUSSELL celebrates 16 years of food growing by sharing his one fundamental principle for gardening success.
![How to understand your site Garden Shadows](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Cloudlake ZigZag Border Medium-500x500.jpg)
How to understand your site
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As autumn shadows lengthen, JUSTIN RUSSELL says that it's important to analyse the way light falls across your garden.
![Glyphosate linked to cancer Crop Spraying](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Crop_spraying_at_Rulesmains_Farm,_Duns_-_geograph.org_.uk_-_1565950-500x427.jpg)
Glyphosate linked to cancer
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The World Health Organisation's cancer agency describes glyphosate as a probable carcinogen, JUSTIN RUSSELL reports.
![The Herbalist’s Bible Herbs](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Picked Herbs-500x500.jpg)
The Herbalist’s Bible
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What did people do for medicine in the 17th century? JUSTIN RUSSELL reviews a modern take on a Middle Ages herbal classic.
![What’s summer without basil? Sweet Basil](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Basil-500x500.jpg)
What’s summer without basil?
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JUSTIN RUSSELL pleads the case for growing a big patch of basil in the summer garden.
![Jobs for February Nectarine Pruning](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/NectarinePruning-500x500.jpg)
Jobs for February
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Despite wearying of summer and longing for autumn, JUSTIN RUSSELL gets stuck into some February pruning.
![An abundance of blackberries Blackberries](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Blackberries-500x500.jpg)
An abundance of blackberries
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An epic blackberry crop has JUSTIN RUSSELL convinced that growing your own food is about abundance, not scarcity.
![Have a very cherry Christmas! Morello Cherry](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MorelloCherries-500x500.jpg)
Have a very cherry Christmas!
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Christmas wouldn't be complete without cherries, but for a sour twist, JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests trying Morello cherries.
![What lies beneath CSIRO soil grid](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/vlcsnap-2014-11-26-12h40m13s159-620x349-500x349.jpg)
What lies beneath
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Curious about what's beneath your feet? JUSTIN RUSSELL excavates a brilliant new CSIRO soil mapping tool.
![How to beat hydrophobia Soil Wetter](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/ApplyingSoilWetter-500x500.jpg)
How to beat hydrophobia
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Is your soil afraid of water? JUSTIN RUSSELL shares tips for combatting hydrophobic soil.
![If the caps fit Heirloom Capsicums](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/HeirloomCapsicums-500x500.jpg)
If the caps fit
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Capsicums are heat loving summer vegies that look and taste great with the right care, says JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![Planting ideas for September Spring Onion](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/SpringOnions-500x500.jpg)
Planting ideas for September
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JUSTIN RUSSELL emerges from his winter slumber to get stuck into some cautious spring planting.
![Garden jobs for September Spring Bluff](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Spring Bluff-500x500.jpg)
Garden jobs for September
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JUSTIN RUSSELL contemplates our Australian seasons and offers some gardening suggestions for September.
![She’ll be apples She'll be apples](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/OG_Apples_07.lowres.jpg)
She’ll be apples
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It's early spring and the sap is rising, the perfect time to propagate deciduous fruit trees says JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![A vegetable wonder A vegetable wonder](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Romanesco-500x500.jpg)
A vegetable wonder
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JUSTIN RUSSELL harvests the unusual broccoli Romanesco and offers tips on growing these tricky brassicas.
![Time to prune grape vines Two Bud Spur Pruning](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/TwoBudPruning-500x500.jpg)
Time to prune grape vines
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Sunny winter days are perfect for pruning dormant grape vines to keep them productive, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![What to do in July Frosty Veg Garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/FrostVegiesMedium-500x500.jpg)
What to do in July
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Winter has arrived and JUSTIN RUSSELL has some handy tips for dealing with the coldest month of the year.
![Happy accidents Undersown Garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/UndersownGarlic-500x500.jpg)
Happy accidents
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A crop of self-sown salad leaves in JUSTIN RUSSELL's garlic patch has him reflecting on happy accidents in the garden.
![What to do in June Chickweed](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Chickweed-500x500.jpg)
What to do in June
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It might still feel like summer in some areas but cooler weather is on its way. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares some timely June gardening jobs.
![Orange lanterns of autumn Fuyu Persimmons](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/PersimmonFuyu-500x500.jpg)
Orange lanterns of autumn
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Few plants can bridge the ornamental-edible divide like the persimmon. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to grow them.
![Agrarian paradise Agrarian Kitchen](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/AgrarianKitchen-2-500x500.jpg)
Agrarian paradise
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A veteran of hundreds of garden visits, JUSTIN RUSSELL finds fresh inspiration at Tasmania's Agrarian Kitchen.
![Treetop wonder Tahune Airwalk](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Tahune_airwalk_v2-500x500.jpg)
Treetop wonder
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JUSTIN RUSSELL gets a bird's eye view of Tasmania's southern forests at the Tahune Airwalk south of Hobart.
![Bondin’ with my calamondin Ripening Calamondins](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Calamondin-500x500.jpg)
Bondin’ with my calamondin
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It might be fruiting two months ahead of schedule, but JUSTIN RUSSELL extolls the virtues of his backyard calamondin tree.
![Jobs for March Root Vegies](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/root_vegie_bed-500x450.jpg)
Jobs for March
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Autumn's here. Depending on where you are in Australia, that might mean welcome rain, cooler weather or in some cases, continuining drought. Check out JUSTIN RUSSELL's guide to March gardening in your neck of the woods.
![Bush tea saves the day Tea Camellia](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/640px-Camellia_sinensis_flower_tea-500x480.jpg)
Bush tea saves the day
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After a hard morning gardening, a cup of bush tea makes a refreshing pick-me-up.
![Use shade to beat the heat Shade Cloth Lettuces](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Shade Cloth Lettuces-500x500.jpg)
Use shade to beat the heat
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Trying to keep your cool in the vegie patch? JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how he uses shade cloth to spare lettuces and leafy greens from the worst of the summer heat.
![Summer prune fruit trees Pruning Fruit Trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/FruitPruning-500x500.jpg)
Summer prune fruit trees
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For a bumper crop of fruit next summer, prune deciduous fruit trees now. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how.
![Jobs for January Jobs for January](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/GoslingsMedium-500x500.jpg)
Jobs for January
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Summertime, and the gardening's easy. JUSTIN RUSSELL lists his jobs for January, including tips on slug control, safe use of pyrethrum sprays and backyard geese.
![Putting the cole in slaw Putting the cole in slaw](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Autumn Brassicas-500x500.jpg)
Putting the cole in slaw
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Cabbages in December? Too right! JUSTIN RUSSELL gives tips for growing late brassicas and shares a delicious coleslaw recipe.
![What to do in December What to do in December](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Nasturtium-500x500.jpg)
What to do in December
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Summer's here! JUSTIN RUSSELL gets the garden in party mode, offers tips for summer plant feeding, and suggests ways to enjoy a well-earned siesta under a shady tree.
![Poultry planning chook pen, barnyard](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/P1 - JustinsChookSetUp.lowres-500x426.jpg)
Poultry planning
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Want to get the most out of your feathered friends? JUSTIN RUSSELL gives you tips for managing chooks in an organic backyard.
![Hilling potatoes Hilling potatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/HomegrownSpuds-500x500.jpg)
Hilling potatoes
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Want to know the secret to getting maximum yeilds from your potato crop? JUSTIN RUSELL has the solution.
![Rockin’ the beets Heirloom Beetroot](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/HeirloomBeets-500x500.jpg)
Rockin’ the beets
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With an abundance of beetroot being harvested from his patch, JUSTIN RUSSELL shares a favourite recipe - roasted beetroot salad.
![Garden jobs for November Irrigating](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/JustinVegPatch-500x500.jpg)
Garden jobs for November
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Is it November already? Summer is nearly upon us and JUSTIN RUSSELL says it's shaping up to be drier than average across much of Australia. Check out his suggested jobs for November and get cracking!
![Bushfire recovery and resistance Bushfire recovery and resistance](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BushfireRegen-500x500.jpg)
Bushfire recovery and resistance
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Last month's bushfires in NSW were a devastating blow, but JUSTIN RUSSELL says that there's hope for the future: Gardens will recover, and gardeners can take proactive steps to help resist future fires.
![Bolting, and how to postpone it Bolting Broccoli](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BoltingBroccoli-500x500.jpg)
Bolting, and how to postpone it
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With a change in seasons comes vegetables bolting quickly to seed. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains why plants bolt, and suggests ways to slow the process down.
![Garlic harvest begins Southern Glen Garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/SouthernGlenGarlicMedium-500x500.jpg)
Garlic harvest begins
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Much to his neighbours suprise, JUSTIN RUSSELL starts harvesting the first of his garlic bulbs. Check out his tips on knowing when the time’s right.
![How to succeed with cucurbits Cucumber Pollination](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Pollinate_zucchini_flower-500x465.jpg)
How to succeed with cucurbits
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JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to get a bumper harvest from your spring planting of pumpkins, melons, zucchini and other cucurbits.
![Healthy home-raised seedlings Vegie Seedlings](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/VegieSeedlings-500x500.jpg)
Healthy home-raised seedlings
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When raising seedlings at home, it's important to make sure the little plants well fed and toughened up before planting into the garden. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his tips for producing robust plants.
![Spring greens Spring Greens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SpringGreens-500x500.jpg)
Spring greens
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Get them in early, and grow them fast. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares these and other tips for growing a range of yummy spring greens.
![What to do in September Apple Blossom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Apple Blossom-500x500.jpg)
What to do in September
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Spring has sprung! Time to dust off the tools and get cracking on some September gardening jobs, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![The plastic pot problem Biodegradable Pots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/BiodegradablePots-500x500.jpg)
The plastic pot problem
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Plastic pots are ubiquitous in the nursery industry and pose a serious waste problem. JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests ways that you can reduce the flow of plastic coming from your backyard.
![How to create tilth Creating Tilth](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/creating_tilth-500x450.jpg)
How to create tilth
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Ever heard a gardener talk about something called “tilth” and wondered what on earth they were on about. JUSTIN RUSSELL offers a definition and explains how to create soil that's ready for spring seed sowing.
![Jobs for August Grafting](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Grafting-500x500.jpg)
Jobs for August
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What better way to spend an August weekend than in your organic garden. Get started with the help of JUSTIN RUSSELL's suggestions for the last weeks of winter.
![The joy of quality tools Garden Tools](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Garden_tools-500x500.jpg)
The joy of quality tools
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Quality tools are a gardener's best friend. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to pick a tool that will become a treasured family heirloom.
![Sustainable firewood Ash Tree](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/AshTree-500x500.jpg)
Sustainable firewood
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Heating with wood has a reputation for being unsustainable, but JUSTIN RUSSELL argues that with the right timber and a slow combustion heater, your fireplace can be carbon neutral.
![Become a backyard conservator Heritage Apples](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Apples-500x413.jpg)
Become a backyard conservator
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Grow heritage fruit trees at home and you'll become backyard conservator who is helping to stop the extinction of the world's food plants. JUSTIN RUSSELLL explains how.
![Jobs for July Frosty Garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/ThistlebrookFrost-500x500.jpg)
Jobs for July
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The coldest month of the year is upon us, but JUSTIN RUSSELL says that this is no excuse to avoid getting outside. Here’s his tips for what to do in the July garden.
![Education of a worm farmer Worm Farm](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Worm_farms-500x413.jpg)
Education of a worm farmer
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After his first worm farm was transformed into an invertebrate iceblock by a black frost six years ago, JUSTIN RUSSELL decides to have another go after discovering a worm farm kit at the back of his shed.
![Orange renaissance Young Maltese Blood Orange](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/2 YoungMalteseBloodOrange ANYWHERE_620-500x500.jpg)
Orange renaissance
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Having fallen from favour in recent decades, the backyard orange tree is due for a comeback – be it sweet, blood or sour, says JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![Dare to bare Bare Rooted Trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/BareRootTrees-500x500.jpg)
Dare to bare
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Bare rooted trees will be appearing in nurseries over the next couple of weeks, and many are available online. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to successfully dare to bare.
![Make a cheap compost bin Compost Bin](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Compost_heap-500x465.jpg)
Make a cheap compost bin
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JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to make a compost heap from cheap, locally sourced materials.
![Dig and store spuds Digging up spuds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Spuds_620x350px-500x350.jpg)
Dig and store spuds
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You've grown a lovely crop of potatoes and its now time to dig, and store them for winter. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how.
![Natural timber is best Treated Timber](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Treated_timber-500x412.jpg)
Natural timber is best
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Should organic gardeners use treated timber when building structures in the garden? JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his experience.
![Sowing winter beans Broad Bean Crimson](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/CrimsonBroadBean-500x500.jpg)
Sowing winter beans
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Broad beans are among the easiest vegies to grow during winter. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to propagate the plants from seed.
![Watering in winter Watering in winter](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Winter_watering-500x350.jpg)
Watering in winter
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Knowing when to water your garden is a vital skill to master, especially in winter, when every climate zone in Australia does something different. JUSTIN RUSSELL offers some tips.
![Tommies in May? Tommies in May?](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Tomatoes_620px-500x439.jpg)
Tommies in May?
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If you are determined to grow tomatoes, why not try some of the wonderful array of heirloom varieties with diverse colours and flavours.
![Autumn glories Autumn Blackberry Foliage](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/AutumnBlackberry_620px-500x280.jpg)
Autumn glories
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JUSTIN RUSSELL is stopped in his tracks by the autumn foliage of some undervalued edible plants.
![Warming winter salads Warming winter salads](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Radishes-500x413.jpg)
Warming winter salads
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Radishes and lettuces: there is nothing better for a fresh salad.
![Organic strategies for household pests Paper wasps's nest](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Paper_Wasp_nest-500x289.jpg)
Organic strategies for household pests
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It’s one thing to be organic outside in the garden, but all too easy to slip into conventional thinking inside the house. JUSTIN RUSSELL outlines some basic strategies for organic pest control around the home.
![Give persimmons a chance Persimmon orchard](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Cloudlake-Sheep-Persimmons_620px-500x289.jpg)
Give persimmons a chance
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Persimmon season has arrived, and JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests that people give the misunderstood fruit a second chance.
![What to do in April What to do in April](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/SaladGreens-500x289.jpg)
What to do in April
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April brings a noticable change in season in many parts of Australia. With winter closing in, JUSTIN RUSSELL offers some ideas on what to plant, harvest and tend during mid-autumn.
![Peter Cooper’s cider making Peter Cooper’s cider making](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/CiderMaking-500x289.jpg)
Peter Cooper’s cider making
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Peter Cooper, of Wychwood Nursery in Tasmania, provides information for those thinking about home cider making.
![Rainbow connection Rainbow connection](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/RainbowChard-500x289.jpg)
Rainbow connection
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JUSTIN RUSSELL tells the story of the heirloom vegie poster boy, Rainbow Chard.
![How to make elderberry cordial How to make elderberry cordial](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Elderberry-500x289.jpg)
How to make elderberry cordial
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JUSTIN RUSSELL makes cordial with one of his favourite outlaw plants: elderberry.
![Autumn salads Rouge d'Hiver lettuce](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/AutumnLettuce-500x280.jpg)
Autumn salads
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Autumn is the perfect time of year to plant salad crops and JUSTIN RUSSELL explains the finer points of sowing lettuces.
![Winners and losers Winners and losers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PlumHarvest-500x289.jpg)
Winners and losers
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JUSTIN RUSSELL wonders why, despite a summer of extreme weather, his garden managed to produce an abundance of food. The answer is diversity.
![How to make grenadine Grenadine](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Grenadine-500x289.jpg)
How to make grenadine
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Got a glut of pomegranates? JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to make the refreshing drink, grenadine.
![Grass clipping fatigue Mown Lawn](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Mixed Herbage Lawn-500x289.jpg)
Grass clipping fatigue
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After surviving a second deluge in two years, JUSTIN RUSSELL deals with overgrown lawns, and a flood of grass clippings.
![Stop the rot Peach Brown Rot](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PeachBrownRot-500x500.jpg)
Stop the rot
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JUSTIN RUSSELL gives the low down on the fungal disease brown rot, and suggests some simple control measures.
![Arc de Cucumis Cucumber Trellis](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/ArcDeCucumis-500x500.jpg)
Arc de Cucumis
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JUSTIN RUSSELL takes a leaf out of Phil Dudman's book and grows his cucumbers on a reinforcing mesh trellis.
![Putting Down Roots Sowing Carrots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/SowingCarrots-500x500.jpg)
Putting Down Roots
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The best time to sow winter veg is now, in mid-summer. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his tips for sowing carrots and parsnips.
![Apples for Christmas Autumn apples](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/lord_lambourne-500x250.jpg)
Apples for Christmas
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JUSTIN RUSSELL picks his first apples of the season, and offers a cheery Christmas recipe using the fruit.
![What to do in December and January Sowing carrot seed](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/sowing_seed-500x450.jpg)
What to do in December and January
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JUSTIN RUSSELL'S suggestions for what to do in the organic garden during December and January.
![Shelter from the storm Flood](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DadandFlood-500x500.jpg)
Shelter from the storm
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JUSTIN RUSSELL reflects on the latest round of climate talks at Doha, and the implications of dangerous global warming for gardeners.
![Apricot Season Apricots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Apricots-500x500.jpg)
Apricot Season
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Early summer is stonefruit season in many parts of Australia, and JUSTIN RUSSELL eagerly anticipates a bumper crop of apricots.
![Home Grown Wheat Wheat, Pete's Patch Hobart](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Petes Patch Wheat-500x500.jpg)
Home Grown Wheat
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A mini-plot of wheat at Pete’s Patch in Hobart's Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens has JUSTIN RUSSELL inspired to try home grain growing at his place.
![Reviving lost horticultural crafts Old Wesleydale Hedge](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/OldWesHedge-500x500.jpg)
Reviving lost horticultural crafts
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Lost horticultural crafts such as hedgelaying are being revived at a historic Tasmanian farm. JUSTIN RUSSELL reports.
![A visit to Pete’s Patch, Hobart Pete's Patch Overview](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Petes Patch Overview-500x500.jpg)
A visit to Pete’s Patch, Hobart
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JUSTIN RUSSELL visits Pete's Patch, the food garden made famous by Peter Cundall at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.
![What to do in November Glen Large Garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/glenlarge_garlic-500x500.jpg)
What to do in November
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JUSTIN RUSSELL's suggestions of what to do in the organic garden during November.
![Protecting crops through exclusion Apple Pouch](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Apple Pouch-500x500.jpg)
Protecting crops through exclusion
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JUSTIN RUSSELL spends an afternoon using the exclusion technique to protect his fruit trees from marauding pests.
![Tips for Fruit Fly Season Fruit Fly Netting](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/espalier_orchard_after_nets-500x450.jpg)
Tips for Fruit Fly Season
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Fancy growing organic fruit in an area infested with fruit fly? It is possible, and JUSTIN RUSSELL shows how it can be done.
![Jobs for October Tomato Seeds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/TomatoSeedsSmall-500x500.jpg)
Jobs for October
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Time waits for no organic gardener. Spring marches on, and JUSTIN RUSSELL offers some tips for the month of October.
![Away with the birds Away with the birds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/133 Tawny Frogmouth_iStock-500x500.jpg)
Away with the birds
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JUSTIN RUSSELL writes that wildlife is an essential element of an organic garden, and birds in particular can play an important role in helping to control pests.
![Tomato Tactics Tomato Tactics](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Tomatos_diseased-500x280.jpg)
Tomato Tactics
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Justin Russel suggests some natural methods of controlling two of the most common tomato problems: root knot nematodes and blossom end rot.
![Flame Weeding Flame Weeding](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/FlameWeeder-500x500.jpg)
Flame Weeding
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Controlling weeds is one of the major challenges facing organic gardeners. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his his experiments with a gas powered flame weeder.
![Sowing Capsicum and Eggplant in Spring capsicums](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/capsicums-500x500.jpg)
Sowing Capsicum and Eggplant in Spring
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Capsicums and eggplants are true summer crops that need warm conditions to grow. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his tips for heating things up prior to sowing seed.
![Manure in, compost out Compost Heap](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/chook_bedding_compost-500x437.jpg)
Manure in, compost out
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A local produce swap can produce some interesting outcomes. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his excitement about scoring a few bags of...horse manure - perfect for making compost.
![Where’s the buzz Native Bee Apple Blossom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/NativeBeeApple-500x500.jpg)
Where’s the buzz
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JUSTIN RUSSELL notices a lack of honey bees in his garden, and suggests a course of action to help local bee colonies thrive.
![Purple Haze Purple Sprouting Broccoli](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PurpleSproutingBroccoli-500x500.jpg)
Purple Haze
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After six months of nurturing, JUSTIN RUSSELL finally gets the chance to harvest Purple Sprouting broccoli. Was it worth the wait?
![Asparagus Season First asparagus](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/First asparagus-500x500.jpg)
Asparagus Season
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It’s asparagus season, and JUSTIN RUSSELL sings the praises of one the most delicious vegetables of spring.
![Garden Jobs for Late Winter Unfurling Buds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/UnfurlingBuds-500x500.jpg)
Garden Jobs for Late Winter
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Late winter is no time to rest on your laurels. According to JUSTIN RUSSELL, it's one of the busiest times of the year with plenty to do before spring. Let's get cracking!
![To Chit, or Not to Chit? Dutch Cream Potatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DutchCreams-500x500.jpg)
To Chit, or Not to Chit?
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To chit or not to chit? That is the question for home growers at this time of the year, so JUSTIN RUSSELL explains the process of chtting, and outlines its benefits.
![The Solution to Citrus Problems Orange Tree](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/orangetree-500x500.jpg)
The Solution to Citrus Problems
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What's wrong with my citrus tree? JUSTIN RUSSELL says that this is the most common question asked of garden writers, but the solution is simple. Read on to find out what it is.
![The Great Divide Dividing chives](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DividingChivesMedium-500x500.jpg)
The Great Divide
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Lots of perennial food plants can be easily propagated by division of the root ball. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how.
![Time to build healthy soil Green Manure](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/GreenManure-500x500.jpg)
Time to build healthy soil
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Late winter is the perfect time to build healthy soil. JUSTIN RUSSELL writes about composting and using green manure.
![Is Industrial Ag the Future? Tyirrima Farm](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/TyirrimaVegieGarden-500x500.jpg)
Is Industrial Ag the Future?
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JUSTIN RUSSELL reviews an interview on RN about Australia's proposed National Food Plan, and questions the omission of organic food production.
![Know Your Climate Road To Kentucky](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/RoadToKentuckyMedium-500x500.jpg)
Know Your Climate
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A trip to the New England region in NSW gets JUSTIN RUSSELL thinking about the importance of getting to know your climate.
![A Killing Frost Killing Frost](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/BigFrost-500x500.jpg)
A Killing Frost
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It's been a frosty winter so far in many parts of Australia, but JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests that cold temperatures can be an organic gardener's best friend.
![How to Use Wood Ash Wood Ash](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/wood_ash-500x500.jpg)
How to Use Wood Ash
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Wood heating is common throughout the cooler parts of Australia, but what to do with all that ash. JUSTIN RUSSELL recommends using it in the garden.
![Ripe for the Picking Orange Tree](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/orangetree-500x500.jpg)
Ripe for the Picking
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Knowing when to pick a crop of fruit is a vital skill for home growers to learn, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![If you can’t beat ’em… Granny Smith apples](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/GrannySmiths-500x500.jpg)
If you can’t beat ’em…
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JUSTIN RUSSELL's apple trees have finished fruiting for the season, so he turns to a Stanthorpe orchardist to get an apple fix into winter.
![Bright Lights of Winter Bulls Blood Beetroot](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/BullsBloodBeetroot-500x500.jpg)
Bright Lights of Winter
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Why settle for drab greens and greys in the winter vegie patch, asks JUSTIN RUSSELL, when you can grown plants with as much colour as a Ken Done painting?
![Winter Spinach GalileeSpinach](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/GalileeSpinach-500x500.jpg)
Winter Spinach
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Spinach thrives in winter and provides a stream of nutritious leaves for months on end. JUSTIN RUSSELL gives the lowdown on a favourite cool season crop.
![Calamondins and Kumquats A calamondin in Justin's vegie garden.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Calamondin-500x500.jpg)
Calamondins and Kumquats
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There is all sorts of confusion over citrus names, with kumquats and calamondins being prime examples. JUSTIN RUSSELL gives a run down on the smallest members of the citrus tribe.
![The Value of Leaves Fallen Leaves](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/AutumnLeaves-500x500.jpg)
The Value of Leaves
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JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests that instead of seeing fallen leaves as a problem, we should see them as a precious resource.
![Divide and conquer Chive Divisions](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/ChiveDivisions-500x500.jpg)
Divide and conquer
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Looking for a free, easy way to increase your plant stocks? JUSTIN RUSSELL writes that autumn is the best time of the year to divide and conquer.
![Parsnip Secrets Parsnip Seedlings](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/parsnip_seedlings-500x500.jpg)
Parsnip Secrets
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Parsnips have a well earned reputaion for being hard to grow. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his tips for producing a bumper crop oof long white roots.
![A Nod to Nasturtiums Nasturtium](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Nasturtium-500x500.jpg)
A Nod to Nasturtiums
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One of the best plants for organic gardens is the nasturtium. JUSTIN RUSSELL writes that it's useful, ornamental, and lots of fun to grow.
![Apple and Rhubarb Autumn apples](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/lord_lambourne-500x250.jpg)
Apple and Rhubarb
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Apple and rhubarb is a classic autumn pairing, both in the garden and the kitchen. JUSTIN RUSSELL celebrates the season by sharing a favourite recipe.
![Plant coriander for winter Coriander](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Coriander-500x500.jpg)
Plant coriander for winter
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Don’t fall for the myth that coriander loves to be grown in blazing hot sun during summer. JUSTIIN RUSSELL writes that the world’s most widely consumed herb does brilliantly in winter, even in the shade.
![Tomato Experiment Update Tommy Toes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/tommy_toes-500x500.jpg)
Tomato Experiment Update
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JUSTIN RUSSELL updates his experiment in growing disease free tomatoes using four different methods.
![Breaking up a Gastropod Party Breaking up a Gastropod Party](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/garden_slug-500x500.jpg)
Breaking up a Gastropod Party
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Slugs and snails can wreak havoc in the vegie patch and are difficult to control organically. JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his succeses and failures.
![Heartsease Heartsease has a long history of use in herbal medicine.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/P5-ViolaHybrid-500x465.jpg)
Heartsease
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Viola tricolor is a cheery little annual guaranteed to brighten up the bleakest winter’s day.
![There’s nothing bad about Banksias There’s nothing bad about Banksias](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/banksia_integrifolia-500x500.jpg)
There’s nothing bad about Banksias
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The Big Bad Banksia Men have terrorised the dreams of Aussie schoolchildren for decades. But JUSTIN RUSSELL wirtes that there's nothing bad about banksias, and in fact, they have an important role to play in organic gardens.
![Green Peas Autumn Pea Flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/pea_flowers-500x500.jpg)
Green Peas
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St Patrick's Day is traditionally regarded as the perfect time to plant ornamental sweet peas. JUSTIN RUSSELL argues that it's also the ideal time to plant edible peas in anticipation of an extended harvest.
![Going Nuts for Almonds Almond Buds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/almond_buds-500x500.jpg)
Going Nuts for Almonds
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With his almond crop harvested, JUSTIN RUSSELL has high hopes for an even better harvest next summer from his single, self pollinating tree.
![Pumpkin Pimping male pumpkin flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/male_pumpkin_flower-500x500.jpg)
Pumpkin Pimping
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JUSTIN RUSSELL outlines a simple technique to ensure your pumpkin, melon and other cucurbit vines set masses of tasty fruit, even when the bees decide to stay at home.
![Netting Works Wonders capsicums](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/capsicums-500x500.jpg)
Netting Works Wonders
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JUSTIN RUSSELL writes in praise of exclusion netting after harvesting his best ever crop of capsicums.
![Virtuous Weeds stinging nettle](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/stinging_nettle-500x500.jpg)
Virtuous Weeds
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A week of rain, followed by a week of sun results in a massive crop of weeds in JUSTIN RUSSELL's garden. Can he turn a problem into a tasty solution?
![Why spring onions are undervalued spring onions](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Backlit Vegetables-500x500.jpg)
Why spring onions are undervalued
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One of the best plants in the vegie patch is one of the least valued. JUSTIN RUSSELL makes the case for growing a year round supply of spring onions.
![The Power of Compost Compost Making](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/compost_making-500x500.jpg)
The Power of Compost
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Compost has lots of proven benefits for the garden. JUSTIN RUSSELL visits a historic property in Toowoomba and shares the story of an old eucalypt saved by a top dressing of remedial "black gold".
![In Praise of Feijoas Feijoa Harvest](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Feijoas-500x500.jpg)
In Praise of Feijoas
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Feijoas are a tough and adaptable plant for the organic home garden. JUSTIN RUSSELL sings the praises of this myrtle relative and its delicious fruit.
![How to harvest corn Sweet Corn](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Sweetcorn-500x500.jpg)
How to harvest corn
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Does your sweet corn look ripe for the picking? JUSTIN RUSSELL shares his tips on how to harvest, cook and eat the perfect cob.
![Summer seed sowing Veg Garden Summer](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/VegGardenSummer-500x500.jpg)
Summer seed sowing
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With the lazy days of summer well and truly upon us, it's time to do some relaxed pottering about the garden. JUSTIN RUSSELL suggests sowing seeds and planting seedlings in anticipation of a winter harvest.
![Biochar Experiment – An Update Dutch Cream Potatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DutchCreams-500x500.jpg)
Biochar Experiment – An Update
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Biochar has the potential to revolutionise gardening in a post carbon world. JUSTIN RUSSELL provides an update on an experiment using the product in his vegie garden to help grow a bumper crop of spuds.
![Blackberry Season Ripening Blackberries](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/RipeningBlackberries-500x500.jpg)
Blackberry Season
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Unlike their wild, uncouth cousins, thornless blackberries are far more refined and oh so delicious. JUSTIN RUSSELL extolls the virtues of this underappreciated cool climate fruit.
![Book Review: The New Organic Gardener New Organic Gardener Cover](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/NewOrganic-500x500.jpg)
Book Review: The New Organic Gardener
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JUSTIN RUSSELL reviews the new book by organic industry stalwart, Tim Marshall.
![What’s in a Name Heirloom Carrots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Heirloom Carrots-500x500.jpg)
What’s in a Name
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There's more to plant names than you think. Some bear wonderful names that contribute a sense of poetry to the garden, while other are just plain silly. JUSTIN RUSSELL asks the question, "what's in a name?".
![The King of Strawberries Strawberry of the Woods](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/fraises_des_bois-500x500.jpg)
The King of Strawberries
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It's tiny, easy going, yet one of the most delicious of all fruits. JUSTIN RUSSELL salutes the humble wild strawberry, fraises des bois.
![Isabella Grapes Save the Day Isabella Grapes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Isabella Grapes-500x500.jpg)
Isabella Grapes Save the Day
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With his grape crop ruined by last summer's record wet season, JUSTIN RUSSELL pins his hopes on a mildew resistant heirloom variety to make an annual batch of verjuice.
![Nature Will Have Her Way Boobook](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/boobook-500x500.jpg)
Nature Will Have Her Way
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An elusive boobook owl reminds JUSTIN RUSSELL that pest control in the garden is often best left to the birds.
![Anniversary of the Luddite Uprisings Luddites](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Luddites-500x388.jpg)
Anniversary of the Luddite Uprisings
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What do you know about the Luddites? Other than the insulting term applied to someone who doesn't have a smart phone or tablet computer, the Luddites have a more in common with organic gardenering than you might think. On the eve of the 200th anniversary of the first Luddite Uprisings, JUSTIN RUSSELL revisits some true radicals.
![When to harvest garlic? Glen Large Garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/glenlarge_garlic-500x500.jpg)
When to harvest garlic?
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To harvest, or not to harvest? It can be tricky to know when garlic is ready to be dug up, but JUSTIN RUSSELL has a simple method that doesn't involve counting leaves, and ignores the theory of set planting and harvesting dates.
![Encouraging Aerobic Bacteria Steaming Compost](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Steaming Compost-500x500.jpg)
Encouraging Aerobic Bacteria
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A failed wastewater system reminds JUSTIN RUSSELL about the importance of aerobic bacteria in decomposing organic waste.
![The Myth of Disease Resistance Pierre de Ronsard rose](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PierreDeRonsard-500x500.jpg)
The Myth of Disease Resistance
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Could a new super-rose that is totally resistant to blackspot be a good fit for organic gardeners. JUSTIN RUSSELL argues that there are other virtues to look for in plants beyond the obvious.
![Popular Garden Chemical Suspended Organic Apricots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Ripening Apricots-500x500.jpg)
Popular Garden Chemical Suspended
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Dimethoate, a popular but toxic chemcial commonly used in home gardens has been suspended for use by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. JUSTIN RUSSELL reports.
![The Need for Speed The Need for Speed](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/LeafyGreens-500x500.jpg)
The Need for Speed
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If you're not careful, the spring planting window can quickly come and go, leaving the vegie garden short on home grown food. Thank goodness for fast growing crops that produce a yield in a matter of weeks, not months, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.
![Experiments in Tomato Growing Ripe Tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Ripe Tomatoes-500x500.jpg)
Experiments in Tomato Growing
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Tomatoes are almost everyone's summer favourite, but they can be temperamental plants to grow. JUSTIN RUSSELL wonders whether gardeners over-cultivate tomatoes, and plans an experiment in leaving the plants to their own devices.
![Confessions of a weather watcher Flood](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/DadandFlood-500x500.jpg)
Confessions of a weather watcher
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JUSTIN RUSSELL explains why it's okay to be a "weather nerd", and describes his system for recording the rainfall and temperature in his cool climate garden.
![The Benefits of Thinning Fruit Apple fruitlets](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/AppleFruitlets-500x500.jpg)
The Benefits of Thinning Fruit
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When it comes to fruit, can you have too much of a good thing? The answer's yes, and JUSTIN RUSSELL explains the benefits of thinning out a bumper crop.
![Using biochar in the garden Biochar Vegie Bed](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/BiocharBed-500x500.jpg)
Using biochar in the garden
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In a previous post, Simon Webster reported on a proposal to build Australia's first electricty producing biochar plant. In this follow up post JUSTIN RUSSELL gives a run down on how you can use biochar in the garden.
![Welcome to Spring Banksia Rose Wisteria](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/BanskiaRoseWisteria-500x500.jpg)
Welcome to Spring
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Some reality TV shows would have you believe that gardening is little more than a way to increase the value of your property or a means of keeping up with Joneses. JUSTIN RUSSELL takes a hatchet to these ideas, and suggests that the benefits of gardening run deep.
![Groundcover strawberries Berry Feast](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Strawberries-500x500.jpg)
Groundcover strawberries
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Often, the best way to get plants to thrive is by mimicking the way they grow in the wild. JUSTIN RUSSELL applies this theory to strawberries, a natural woodland plant, with outstanding results.
![First blossom of the season Anna Apple Blossom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/AnnaBlossom-500x500.jpg)
First blossom of the season
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In JUSTIN RUSSELL'S garden, the first fruit blossoms of the new season have made their showy arrival. Leading the charge is an apple with unusual pedigree but an outstanding flavour.
![Land: The Source of True Wealth Backlit Vegies](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Spring Vegies-500x500.jpg)
Land: The Source of True Wealth
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In the midst of a world econony that appears to be tanking, JUSTIN RUSSELL gets back in touch with the land.
![Why is my Rhubarb Green? Red Rhubarb](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Rhubarb-500x500.jpg)
Why is my Rhubarb Green?
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Rhubarb has had a renaissance in recent years, but more than a few people are finding that their plant won't change colours from green to red. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains why.
![Notes on Wood Chip Mulch Woody Mulch Orchard](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/WoodyMulchOrchard-500x473.jpg)
Notes on Wood Chip Mulch
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JUSTIN RUSSELL elaborates on the benefits of wood chip mulch to established fruit trees.
![Mid-winter in the Orchard Mid Winter Orchard](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/MidWinterOrchard-500x500.jpg)
Mid-winter in the Orchard
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For organic fruit growers, mid-winter is the ideal time to apply a preventative spray against summer fungal diseases. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how.
![How to have your hedge and eat it too Tea Camellia Hedge](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/TeaCamelliaHedge-500x500.jpg)
How to have your hedge and eat it too
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There's no need for plants to be classed as either ornamental or edible. In a productive garden they can be both. JUSTIN RUSSELL makes hedges that look pretty, and taste good too.
![All Hail King Kale Kale with leafy salad greens.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Herbs and leafy salads underplanting kale-500x500.jpg)
All Hail King Kale
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Kale is one of the easiest, and most nutritous vegies to grow during winter. JUSTIN RUSSELL sings its praises, and gives some ideas for kale to be used in the kitchen.
![Raspberry Maintenance Raspberries](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Raspberries-500x500.jpg)
Raspberry Maintenance
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For delicious home grown raspberries in summer and autumn, there's a list of routine jobs to do in your berry patch during winter. JUSTIN RUSSELL shows you how.
![Homegrown food saves money Espalier Apples](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/EspalierApples-500x500.jpg)
Homegrown food saves money
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Sometimes gardeners are reluctant to admit it, but growing your own food saves money. JUSTIN RUSSELL runs through a few quick calculations to show that when it comes to generating astrononical returns on investment, nothing beats organic food gardening.
![Time to plant light sensitive alliums WinterAlliums](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/WinterAlliums-500x500.jpg)
Time to plant light sensitive alliums
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With the Winter Solstice fast approaching, Justin Russell gives the low down on light sensitivity in plants, and suggest which alliums perform best during the increasing daylight hours.
![Getting familiar with nude trees Bare Root Trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/BareRootTrees-500x500.jpg)
Getting familiar with nude trees
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Bare-rooted ornamental and fruit trees will be appearing in nurseries toward the end of the month. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to plant them using nature as a guide.
![Secrets to Lemon Success Lemons](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Lemon Tree-500x500.jpg)
Secrets to Lemon Success
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Gardening writers get asked more questions about growing lemon trees than anything else. They're a perennial favourite, and given the right treatment are one of the most productive trees in the garden. Justin Russell shares his lemon growing secrets.
![Become a Backyard Conservationist Heirloom Peas](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/HeirloomPeas-500x500.jpg)
Become a Backyard Conservationist
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With the world facing a sixth mass extinction crisis, Justin Russell highlights the need for gardeners to play a role in conserving domestic plant species.
![Making the Most of Frost Frosty Morning](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/FrostyMorning-500x500.jpg)
Making the Most of Frost
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In viewing frost as just another issue to contend with in the battle to maintain a pristine backyard, modern gardeners miss the benefits of a decent freeze. Justin Russell welcomes the fiirst frost of the season.
![The Wonders of Chook Poo Silver Grey Dorking Chickens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Silver Grey Dorkings-500x500.jpg)
The Wonders of Chook Poo
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Haven't started enjoying the benefits of the humble backyard chicken? Justin Russell celebrates the wonder that is chook manure.
![An elegant pest control solution Autumn Brassicas](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/AutumnBrassicas-500x500.jpg)
An elegant pest control solution
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It can be tempting to think that organic gardening is simply about replacing toxic sprays with organic versions. Justin Russell looks at "exclusion" an elegant pest control solution that is about working smarter, not harder.
![The joy of home grown apples Heirloom Apple Illustration](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/CourtofWickCropped-500x500.jpg)
The joy of home grown apples
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The number of apple varieties in cultivation has fallen off a cliff in the last 100 years, and commercial orchardists just aren't interested. It's time for gardeners to rediscover the wonders of home grown apples, writes Justin Russell.
![Boost fertility with green manure Green Manure](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/GreenManure-500x500.jpg)
Boost fertility with green manure
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Green manures are the cheapest and easiest way to build fertility in the food producing garden, writes Justin Russell.
![Getting radical about organics Backlit Sweetcorn Plants](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Backlit Corn Plants-500x500.jpg)
Getting radical about organics
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Has the organic gardening and farming movement lost its revolutionary edge? It's time to redsicover the radical spirit of the organic pioneers, suggests Justin Russell.