Recent articles by Penny Woodward
![Listen to your garden A magpie lark.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/OG 139 Magpie lark_Alamy-500x500.jpg)
Listen to your garden
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Penny Woodward likes to take the time to listen to what's going on in her garden and learns from the sounds she hears.
![How to turn old clothes into compost Olod clothes can be used on your garden bed as mulch; they will break down.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Clothes on garden bed_Penny Woodward-500x500.jpg)
How to turn old clothes into compost
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Tonnes of textile waste is generated each year in Australia - we can help keep it out of landfill by using old clothes in our garden.
![Growing rocket Broad-leafed annual, 'Apollo'.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/133 broadleafed rocket_Penny Woodward-500x500.jpg)
Growing rocket
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Penny Woodward profiles this versatile, peppery herb, which is as easy to grow as it is delicious! Great for salads and stir-fries.
![Tips for growing hellebores, also called winter roses Hellebores are also called winter roses.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/iStock-Helleborus Tutu-500x500.jpg)
Tips for growing hellebores, also called winter roses
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Hellebores love shade, thrive in frosts and have glorious flowers that appear right through winter into spring, writes Penny Woodward.
![Drough-tolerant herbs Moonshine yarrow.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Moonshine Yarrow by Penny Woodward Socials-500x500.jpg)
Drough-tolerant herbs
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Penny Woodward loves drought-tolerant, grey-leafed herbs. Here are a two of her favourites that you can plant in early Autumn.
![Make your own calming herbal tea Basil is a warming, relaxing herb.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/OG 137 Calming herbs_basil_kirsten bresciani-500x500.jpg)
Make your own calming herbal tea
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Herbs not only add colour to your garden and flavour to food, they can also be made into calming teas and soothing oils. Here Penny Woodward looks at basil and chamomile.
![Plant your garden for the planet Penny Woodward in her garden.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Penny Woodward by Dan Coates-500x500.jpg)
Plant your garden for the planet
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Penny Woodward, who has written for OG for over 15 years and been the horticultural editor for seven, knows gardeners can make a difference.
![Protecting your plants from pests Collars can protect seedlings from pests.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Bean seedlings with collar_Penny Woodward-500x500.jpg)
Protecting your plants from pests
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Deploying a range of barriers and exclusion products will help protect your crops from marauding creatures, writes Penny Woodward.
![Grow your own aloe As aloe vera grows it produces offsets around the base that can be planted as new plants.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Aloe vera iStock_small-500x500.jpg)
Grow your own aloe
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Penny Woodward looks at the many practical uses of soothing aloe vera and how to grow and harvest this succulent.
![Solutions to reduce textile waste More and more businesses are trying to change what happens with the clothing they make.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/iStock_clothes recycling-500x500.jpg)
Solutions to reduce textile waste
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Don't throw those old clothes away, put them to use in your garden, writes Penny Woodward.
![Handy tools for your garden Handy tools for your garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/PW 132 tools_web-500x500.jpg)
Handy tools for your garden
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When it comes to small hand tools, such as trowels, Penny Woodward says look for comfort and durability to last you a gardening lifetime.
![How good bugs work in an organic garden Good bugs are vital to an organic garden.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Bee on zucchini Alamy-500x500.jpg)
How good bugs work in an organic garden
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A well-balanced garden replicates a wild environment filled with beneficial insects that can help keep pests under control.
![Heeling in bare-rooted trees Heeling in bare-rooted trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/GAP Photos Friedrich Strauss-500x500.jpg)
Heeling in bare-rooted trees
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If you have a bunch of bare-rooted trees and can’t plant them quickly, you can do what’s called ‘heeling in’: Penny Woodward explains the process here. Plus, basic tips from Karen Sutherland.
![Saving seeds for our future Robin checking 'Beauregard' snow pea crop.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Transition Farm_Peter Carlyon-500x500.jpg)
Saving seeds for our future
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Penny Woodward talks with Peter Carlyon and Robin Koster-Carlyon about how they changed their organic farm into a thriving seed-growing enterprise.
![How to make a worm farm worm farm](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_0578-500x500.jpg)
How to make a worm farm
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You can use a bath, trough, sink or even a large tin to make a worm farm, says Penny Woodward
![Pest and disease threats Citrus leafminer](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Citrus leafminer damage-500x500.jpg)
Pest and disease threats
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Penny Woodward suggests two threats to your harvest to look out for in your garden now: citrus leafminer and powdery mildew.
![Start with your soil A good harvest starts with healthy soil.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Good Harvest by Megan Slade Photography-500x500.jpg)
Start with your soil
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Early autumn is a good time to take a close look at your soil and do some prep work for your new crops, writes Penny Woodward.
![Elder trees Elder flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/324c Elder, Sambuccus nigra-500x500.jpg)
Elder trees
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These trees have been associated with magic and witchcraft for a long time, explains Penny Woodward.
![Lettuces all year round Coloured lettuces](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Crispmint, Flame and Australian yellow leaf-500x500.jpg)
Lettuces all year round
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Penny Woodward says that with the variety of lettuces available, you should never be without leaves to add to your salads all year round.
![Growing rosemary 'Majorca Pink' rosemary.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Majorca Pink rosemary_Alamy-500x500.jpg)
Growing rosemary
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Rosemary attracts birds, flowers in winter, is a great addition to roasts and lifts the spirit if drunk as a tea, writes Penny Woodward.
![Know your stuff Know your stuff](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ABC_OG_Radish_PinkLadySlipper_web-500x500.jpg)
Know your stuff
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Penny Woodward's glossary of organic gardening terms is a useful reference for all gardeners, from novices to the experienced harvesters out there.
![Why is a red tomato red? Coloured tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Tomato colours-500x500.jpeg)
Why is a red tomato red?
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Tomatoes come in a variety of colours, explains Penny Woodward, with quirky names to match.
![Tips for preparing soil for tomatoes Some of the amazing tomatoes grown by Cheryl McGaffin.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Daniel's Run by Kirsten Bresciani-500x500.jpg)
Tips for preparing soil for tomatoes
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Cheryl McGaffin has a wide range of tomato varieties growing on her property in Victoria and Penny Woodward couldn't resist visiting Daniel's Run to find out more about them.
![Stop those snails and slugs! Snails love tender plants and seedlings.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Snails by IStock-500x500.jpg)
Stop those snails and slugs!
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Penny Woodward has a constant challenge keeping snail and slugs from chomping away at her vegies! Learn how she does it.
![Beautiful garden books reviewed Book covers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/covers-500x480.jpg)
Beautiful garden books reviewed
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These joyous garden books are well worth reading says Penny Woodward
![Feeding fruit trees & bulbs Daffodil flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/IMG_0292-500x500.jpg)
Feeding fruit trees & bulbs
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From daffodils and jonquils to almonds and plums, it's time to for a good feed to keep them happy. Penny Woodward explains why.
![Why grow heirlooms? Heirloom pumpkins](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Unknown-3-500x414.jpeg)
Why grow heirlooms?
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Heirloom edibles are important to our survival, and that of the planet. That's why our horticultural editor, Penny Woodward, loves growing them. Find out why ...
![Top herbs for pots Herbs in pots can be moved around your garden as needed.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Herbs in pots by Kirsten Bresciani-500x500.jpg)
Top herbs for pots
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Having fresh herbs at your doorstep saves money and adds flavour and diversity to your cooking, and Penny Woodward has some tips to get you started.
![A seed of an idea Saving seeds for the seed library.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Seed library_OG 126 Jo McLauchlan-500x500.jpg)
A seed of an idea
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A small project to start a street seed library in a Tassie town is expanding throughout the state’s north, writes Penny Woodward.
![Betony Betony flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Betony, Stachys officinalis.JPG-500x500.jpg)
Betony
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Betony flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies and beneficial insects explains Penny Woodward
![Winter fare Leafy brassicas](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Tuscan kale with pak choy and brown mustard-500x500.jpg)
Winter fare
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Penny Woodward describes some unusual and more common edibles for planting now.
![Winter savory Winter savory in flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Winter savoury-500x500.jpg)
Winter savory
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Spicy, fragrant, warming. This little-known herb is perfect for cool weather meals, writes Penny Woodward.
![Bee friendly planting Honey bee on yellow mustard flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mustard flower and bee-500x500.jpg)
Bee friendly planting
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Planting flowers that honey bees love is a win-win, writes Penny Woodward – they get pollen and you get a healthy harvest! Here's Penny's suggestions, which will tempt bees into your garden.
![Garlic in your garden Garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Garlic_GAP Photos Dianna Jazwinski-500x350.jpg)
Garlic in your garden
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Homegrown garlic tastes dramatically better than any you can buy in your local supermarket, so why not grow it yourself!
![Birds in your garden Books about birds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Bird book covers-500x389.jpg)
Birds in your garden
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Penny Woodward talks about attracting birds to your garden and two new books about birds.
![Growing heirloom tomatoes 'Mini Amish' heirloom tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Mini Amish heirloom tomato Kirsten Bresciani-500x350.jpg)
Growing heirloom tomatoes
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Penny Woodward loves heirloom cherry tomatoes, here she explains how to plant them from seed.
![How to grow sprouts Sprouts](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sprouts_iStock-500x350.jpg)
How to grow sprouts
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All you need is a bench or windowsill and some easy-to-find equipment to grow sprouts, writes Penny Woodward.
![Hot weather watering tips Watering](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_0055-500x500.jpg)
Hot weather watering tips
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Some tips from Penny Woodward to help keep plants alive during summer heat.
![Frogs in your backyard Southern Corroboree Frog](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Southern Corroboree Frog_iStock-500x350.jpg)
Frogs in your backyard
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Penny Woodward has had a large frog pond in her garden for 10 years, offering a home for a species that's under threat.
![How to dry herbs Hanging herbs on clothes horse](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IMG_4510-500x500.jpg)
How to dry herbs
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Summer's a great time to dry herbs, says Penny Woodward. It's also the time when most of them should be harvested. Here's how to do it.
![How to grow chemical-free strawberries Strawberries are high on the list of the most chemically contaminated.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Strawberries_Honey Atkinson-500x350.jpg)
How to grow chemical-free strawberries
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Strawberries are high on the list of chemically contaminated foods that we buy at a supermarket, so here's a refresher on how to grow your own strawberries organically from Penny Woodward.
![Strawberry growing success Grow your own strawberries](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/116 strawberries_GAP Photos Juliette Wade-500x500.jpg)
Strawberry growing success
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Penny Woodward reveals the secrets to growing full-flavoured and productive strawberries – whether in beds, baskets or pots.
![Za’atar: herb or spice mix? Zaatar](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Zaatar-500x500.jpg)
Za’atar: herb or spice mix?
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Penny Woodward says there is confusion about whether za'atar is a herb, a spice mix or both.
![Unusual herbs to grow now Sweet cicely has a mild sugary aniseed flavour.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Sweet cicely Penny Woodward-500x350.jpg)
Unusual herbs to grow now
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Sweet cecily and summer savory are just two flavourful culinary herbs you can easily grow in your own garden.
![Herbs for spring Herbs for spring](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Sage, Salvia officinalis-500x500.jpeg)
Herbs for spring
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Most herbs are perfect for spring planting says Penny Woodward but its a bit early for basil.
![Gillyflowers, pinks, picotees Raspberry Ripple dianthus](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Dianthus 'Raspberry Ripple'-500x500.jpg)
Gillyflowers, pinks, picotees
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These are all names for old-fashioned Dianthus species says Penny Woodward
![Growing tomatoes from seed Tomato seedlings](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Tomato seedlings_istock-500x350.jpg)
Growing tomatoes from seed
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There are many ways of growing tomatoes from seed, but here is one of the simplest and most common, using punnets or seedling trays, from our horticultural editor Penny Woodward.
![Welsh onions Welsh onions starting to flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Welsh or Japanese bunching onions-500x500.jpg)
Welsh onions
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Tough, versatile and useful. Mild sweet onion flavour. Ticks all the boxes says Penny Woodward.
![Snails begone! Snails begone!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Snail Copper collars-500x350.jpg)
Snails begone!
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Peas appear to be a favourite of snails and slugs -- Penny Woodward has a simple solution.
![Worm farms and tumblers Worm farms and tumblers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/OG118Compost620x350-500x350.jpg)
Worm farms and tumblers
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Not everyone has the space in the garden for a compost heap, writes Penny Woodward -- that's where a worm farm comes in!
![Bare-rooted trees and shrubs Planting bare-rooted trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Planting bare rooted-500x500.jpg)
Bare-rooted trees and shrubs
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Penny Woodward explains how to plant bare rooted trees and shrubs.
![Ginkgo raining gold raining gold](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/IMG_6848-500x500.jpg)
Ginkgo raining gold
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This tree grew when the dinosaurs roamed the earth says Penny Woodward.
![Bob’s Summer Surprise Bob with apples](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Bob with his Magnus Summer Surprise apples-500x500.jpg)
Bob’s Summer Surprise
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It took 20 years for Bob Magnus to breed this apple, says Penny Woodward, and it all started in Huonville, Tasmania.
![Planting seed Seeds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_9603-500x500.jpg)
Planting seed
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First time sowing seed? Here's some tips from Penny Woodward for new growers to follow, as well as a guide to the plants best grown as seedlings.
![Horseradish power Horseradish power](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Alamy_horseradish_web-500x500.jpg)
Horseradish power
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Autumn is the time when the wonderfully pungent horseradish is in its element -- you can plant and harvest now and once harvested it's time to start cooking!
![Growing wild alpine strawberries Growing wild alpine strawberries](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/GAP Photos-Juliette Wade_web-500x500.jpg)
Growing wild alpine strawberries
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Wild alpine strawberries are very tasty, writes Penny Woodward, and you can grow them in your backyard!
![Plum harvest and pruning Plums in basket](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/IMG_0810-500x500.jpg)
Plum harvest and pruning
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Japanese plums, harvesting, pruning and a plum sponge from Penny Woodward
![Judging garlic Judging garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Garlic comp_Feb 2020_2-500x500.jpg)
Judging garlic
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Want to start your own garlic competition? Penny Woodward tells you how to judge garlic.
![How to grow plants from tip cuttings How to grow plants from tip cuttings](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Tip cuttings-500x414.jpg)
How to grow plants from tip cuttings
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Want to add to your plant collection without adding to the costs? Penny Woodward has the answer -- and it's easy!
![Make your own olives in brine Make your own olives in brine](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Olive recipe-500x500.jpg)
Make your own olives in brine
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Penny Woodward's recipe for olives in brine is oh-so easy -- now you just need to grow the olives!
![Water saving tips Tree guard](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG_4446-500x500.jpg)
Water saving tips
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Penny Woodward looks at simple smalll scale tricks for efficient water use.
![Tending tomatoes Tomato flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG_1744-500x500.jpg)
Tending tomatoes
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Our tomatoes need regular tending right though the summer says Penny Woodward
![Salad burnet Salad burnet flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Salad burnett-500x500.jpg)
Salad burnet
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Cucumbery salad leaf and a cure for a drunkard's thirst, what more could you want? Penny Woodward asks.
![It’s easy to grow sprouts and microgreens Microgreens may be small but they are filled with vitamins.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/114 Microgreens_Alamy_web-500x500.jpg)
It’s easy to grow sprouts and microgreens
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It's very easy, and rewarding, to grow your own nutrient-rich microgreens and sprouts, writes Penny Woodward.
![Early summer harvesting notes Globe artichoke](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Globe artichokes-500x500.jpg)
Early summer harvesting notes
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Penny Woodward talks about harvesting garlic, basil, globe artichokes and zucchini flowers
![Zucchini: one of the great vegie garden staples! Zucchini: one of the great vegie garden staples!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/zucchini-500x500.jpg)
Zucchini: one of the great vegie garden staples!
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Zucchini have many benefits, writes Penny Woodward, including some idiosyncratic relatives that are also worth growing.
![Aloe vera and other skin herbs Aloe vera](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/002 Aloe vera with other herbs in the garden-500x500.jpeg)
Aloe vera and other skin herbs
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Penny Woodward explains how to use aloe vera and two other herbs for your skin.
![Heartwarming heartsease Heartsease](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Heartsease, Viola tricolor.JPG-4-500x500.jpg)
Heartwarming heartsease
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In medieval times, Penny Woodward explains, heartsease was used in love potions.
![Natural ways to soothe your skin Natural ways to soothe your skin](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/iStock-182377105-500x500.jpg)
Natural ways to soothe your skin
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Herb expert Penny Woodward has some suggestions for ways to naturally soothe skin.
![Succulent sweet corn Sweet corn plants](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Golden Bantam sweetcorn.JPG-500x500.jpg)
Succulent sweet corn
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Put your water on to boil, says Penny Woodward, before picking your sweet corn.
![Tree marigold Golden yellow flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_2808-500x500.jpg)
Tree marigold
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Flowers provide bright splashes of colour for many months says Penny Woodward
![Edible flowers Edible flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Violet and borage flowers with marigold peltals-500x500.jpg)
Edible flowers
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Edible flowers add colour and fragrance to your garden and flavour to your table, writes Penny Woodward. No matter the reason, you'll want to add some to your patch, starting with borage, marigolds and violets.
![Tips for preserving garlic Creole garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Fleurieu Red-500x500.jpg)
Tips for preserving garlic
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward gives seven tips for year round garlic.
![Herb hedges you can grow yourself Herb hedges you can grow yourself](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/111_PW_Lavandula stoechas-500x500.jpg)
Herb hedges you can grow yourself
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Lavender can be used to make a hedge, as well as providing a beautiful scent, writes Penny Woodward.
![Statuesque angelica Angelica](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Angelica archangelica seed head.JPG-5-500x500.jpg)
Statuesque angelica
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Choose your spot carefully suggests Penny Woodward, before planting angelica.
![Flowers for late winter and spring colour Alyssum](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/D429AN-500x500.jpg)
Flowers for late winter and spring colour
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Alyssum is one of the annual flower seeds Penny Woodward suggests planting now for late winter and spring colour.
![Frost, good or bad? Frost protection](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Frost protection over a vegie garden 1-500x500.jpg)
Frost, good or bad?
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Frosts are part of many gardeners lives but Penny Woodard asks are they good or bad?
![Grow kiwi fruit and reap the benefits Kiwi fruit on vine](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/IMG_1708-500x500.jpg)
Grow kiwi fruit and reap the benefits
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Plant kiwi fruit vines now, says Penny Woodward, and reap the benefits for decades.
![Modern heirloom tomatoes Heirloom tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Heirloom tomatoes with Banksia Queen-500x500.jpg)
Modern heirloom tomatoes
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward talks about modern heirloom tomatoes for you to ponder
![Poppy planting time Red poppy](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/IMG_0193-500x500.jpg)
Poppy planting time
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Planting poppy seed, Penny Woodward explains, takes a little care.
![Growing in sandy soils Dianthus and sage.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/005 Dianthus 'Mrs Sinkins' with sage copy-500x500.jpg)
Growing in sandy soils
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
A few gardeners are blessed with deep, rich, textured, fertile soil. But what if you aren't? Penny Woodward has some ideas to help.
![Limes Tahitian lime](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/IMG_0562-500x500.jpg)
Limes
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Limes have it all says Penny Woodward. Fragrant flowers, glossy leaves, delicious fruit.
![Garlic pests and diseases Rust on garlic leaf](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/IMG_6045-500x500.jpg)
Garlic pests and diseases
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Recipes to combat some garlic pests and diseases from Penny Woodward
![Garlic ain’t just garlic There are more than 300 different garlic cultivars grown in Australia.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Garlic Alamy-500x500.jpg)
Garlic ain’t just garlic
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Diversity in garlic cultivars will help cope with the effects of climate change, while new research bolsters garlic’s already strong health credentials, writes Penny Woodward.
![Olive harvesting and preserving Green olives](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Olive Kalamata.JPG 1-500x500.jpg)
Olive harvesting and preserving
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Time to think about harvesting and preserving olives, writes Penny Woodward.
![Oregano and marjoram Buckland oregano](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Origanum 'Buckland'-500x500.jpg)
Oregano and marjoram
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward says that oregano comes into its own at this time of year.
![Apples: Glossary terms Heritage apple](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Cox's Orange Pippin-500x500.jpg)
Apples: Glossary terms
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Thinking of growing apples? This glossary of terms by Penny Woodward will come in handy.
![Hyssop highlights Hyssop](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Hyssop, Hyssopus officinalis-500x500.jpg)
Hyssop highlights
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Hyssop, says Penny Woodward, attracts bees and butterflies and dispels the ‘nits and itchings of the beard’!
![Southernwood Southernwood](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Southernwood, Artemisia abrotanum.JPG-500x500.jpg)
Southernwood
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
This important insect-repellent herb has lots of uses says Penny Woodward
![Storing garlic Storing garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/4c Creole bulbs-500x500.jpg)
Storing garlic
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
So you've harvested and cured your garlic, now you need to store it. Penny Woodward explains how.
![Planting seedlings Spade and gloved hand](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Planting seedling-500x500.jpg)
Planting seedlings
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There are some ways, says Penny Woodward, to ensure that summer planted seedlings stay alive.
![Netting fruit Nets for fruit trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Nets-500x500.jpg)
Netting fruit
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward explains that now is the perfect time to net or bag your fruit.
![Zest of life Lemon myrtle](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/009 Lemon myrtle-500x500.jpg)
Zest of life
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Lemon-scented plants bring extra zing to your garden, food and life writes Penny Woodward.
![Drought-tolerant herbs to grow Common thyme](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Common thyme, Thymus vulgaris-500x500.jpg)
Drought-tolerant herbs to grow
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Dryness intensifies the scent and flavour of these herbs, explains Penny Woodward.
![Grow culantro… and no, that is not a typo! Long-leaf coriander](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Culantro-500x500.jpg)
Grow culantro… and no, that is not a typo!
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
This long-leafed coriander is worth growing in all climates says Penny Woodward.
![Smell the lavender English lavender 'Edgerton Blue'](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/300dpi 096 'Egerton Blue'.JPG-500x500.jpg)
Smell the lavender
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Find the right lavender, says Penny Woodward, to use for its calming and relaxing effects.
![Great times for tomatoes Green and black heirloom tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/303b Green and Black PW-500x413.jpg)
Great times for tomatoes
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward introduces some unusual, and delicious, heirlooms to try.
![Cherry tree thoughts Young cherries](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/IMG_2638-500x500.jpg)
Cherry tree thoughts
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward discusses four things you need to know for successful cherry production.
![Pesky aphids Aphids on broccoli](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Aphids on a broccoli stem-500x500.jpg)
Pesky aphids
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Spring is aphid season says Penny Woodward. Here's how to control them.
![The elephant of garlics Elephant garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/042b Elephant garlics in flower-500x500.jpg)
The elephant of garlics
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It's much too late to plant garlic, explains Penny Woodward, but the perfect time for Elephant garlic.
![Wondrous wallflowers A bed of wallflowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Wallflowers (1)-500x500.jpg)
Wondrous wallflowers
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
You can't go past deliciously scented wallflowers for your spring and summer garden writes Penny Woodward.
![Mulching pots Spreading mulch](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_0860-500x500.jpg)
Mulching pots
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
As the weather warms up Penny Woodward explains why it's good to mulch your pots.
![Sowing organic seeds Seeds sown in coir pots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_3806-500x500.jpg)
Sowing organic seeds
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It's life affirming, says Penny Woodward, to plant seed and watch it grow.
![Spiders are special Australian spiders](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/A Field Guide to Spiders of Australia (1)-500x500.jpg)
Spiders are special
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Look after your spiders says Penny Woodward, the vast majority are harmless and all are beneficial.
![Gardens for dementia Pansies](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Pansies-500x500.jpg)
Gardens for dementia
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Penny Woodward says to grow an array of coloured and scented plants for loved ones with dementia.
![Shungiku (chop suey greens) Shungiku](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Shungiku in flower-500x500.jpg)
Shungiku (chop suey greens)
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Have you tried this interesting, flavoursome and nutritious plant, asks Penny Woodward.
![Roses of yesteryear Peace rose](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/016 Peace rose-500x413.jpg)
Roses of yesteryear
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward investigates roses of yesteryear, and lists her top picks.
![Tough, rewarding asparagus A basket of asparagus](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Asparagus-500x500.jpg)
Tough, rewarding asparagus
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward says to look out for asparagus crowns to plant soon.
![Perennial pruning Perennial chamomile](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/IMG_4224-500x500.jpg)
Perennial pruning
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Pruning and dividing some perennials keeps their growth under control, says Penny Woodward.
![Subtle, charming chervil Young chervil plants](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Chervil, Anthriscus cerefolium-500x500.jpg)
Subtle, charming chervil
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
A basket of chervil seeds was found in Tutankhamun’s tomb, says Penny Woodward.
![Autumn leaves Autumn colour](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Pomegranate and persimmon-500x500.jpg)
Autumn leaves
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Autumn leaves are myriad colours, says Penny Woodward, and they're useful too!
![Spring to it Spring onions](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/01 Spring onions USE-500x413.jpg)
Spring to it
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Virtually pest free and great companion plants, spring onions are a tasty addition to your patch says Penny Woodward.
![Diversity is the key A diverse garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_2047-500x500.jpg)
Diversity is the key
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward explains how diversity is essential for healthy gardens, parks, farms and wild environments.
![Do the celery crunch A bunch of celery](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/A bunch of celery-500x500.jpg)
Do the celery crunch
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Freshly cut, clean, crunchy celery is the perfect plant for autumn, says Penny Woodward.
![Garlic celebrations, 2020 Purple garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Rojo del Pais Baza-500x500.jpg)
Garlic celebrations, 2020
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Love garlic? Penny Woodward tells you how to celebrate with garlic.
![Mustardy marvel Salad plants](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Mustard, Ruby and Lime Streaks-500x500.jpg)
Mustardy marvel
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
The sharp lemony flavour with hot peppery aftertaste make this mustard a winner, writes Penny Woodward.
![Liquid gold Worm liquid is a relatively easy-to-produce home-made liquid fertiliser.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/_MG_2627-500x413.jpg)
Liquid gold
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward investigates the expanding range of liquid fertilisers, from seaweed extracts to manure teas.
![Doing the tomato shake A developing tomato](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Tiny new tomato fruit-500x500.jpg)
Doing the tomato shake
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Shake your tomato flowers to help with pollination and set fruit, writes Penny Woodward.
![Marvellous microgreens Microgreens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Micro leaf salad mix in pot-500x500.jpg)
Marvellous microgreens
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Nutritious microgreens, explains Penny Woodward, are quick to grow and delicious to eat.
![Love-in-a-mist Love-in-a-mist](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Love-in-a-mist-500x500.jpg)
Love-in-a-mist
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward says that despite its delicate looks, love-in-a-mist is surprisingly tough and easy to grow.
![Simple, sparkling, summer drinks Variegated apple mint](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Variegated applemint, Mentha suaveolens var. variegatum.JPG-500x500.jpg)
Simple, sparkling, summer drinks
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Make your own cooling summer drinks suggests Penny Woodward.
![Garden of hope Children playing](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/0A6A1550-500x500.jpg)
Garden of hope
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward writes about an amazing Australian garden project for the children of the Gaza Strip.
![Starting a vegie garden Zucchini are a fast growing summer crop](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IMG_4383-500x500.jpg)
Starting a vegie garden
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
It's not too late, says Penny Woodward, to plant vegies for summer harvesting.
![Broad bean harvesting Green broad beans](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Broad beans-500x500.jpg)
Broad bean harvesting
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Broad beans are delicious, good for the soil and easy to grow. Penny Woodward says now is harvest time.
![Make the most of your mulch Mulching your garden is vital](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/650x320Newsletter_Mulch-500x320.jpg)
Make the most of your mulch
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward explains the dos and don'ts of effective mulching.
![Globe artichoke time Flower buds of artichoke](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Artichoke, young flowers harvested-500x500.jpg)
Globe artichoke time
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
They're delicious, unrivalled, flavoursome food, writes Penny Woodward.
![Growing black tommies Indigo Rose tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Indigo Rose-500x500.jpg)
Growing black tommies
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
For sublime flavour try your hand at growing black tomatoes, writes Penny Woodward.
![Create a slug barrier Spreading mulch](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/IMG_0876 (1)-500x500.jpg)
Create a slug barrier
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Peter Cundall first suggested this method of pear and cherry slug control, writes Penny Woodward.
![Self-sown bonanza Garlic and endive](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/IMG_0806-500x500.jpg)
Self-sown bonanza
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward says she doesn't have to do anything, these vegies and flowers just appear.
![Fennel forever Florence Fennel](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Florence fennel-500x500.jpg)
Fennel forever
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward explores the many uses of fabulous fennel, and includes growing tips and a recipe for fennel butter.
![Edible and useful salvias Salvia lanceolata](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Salvia lanceolata.JPG-5-500x500.jpg)
Edible and useful salvias
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Volatile oils in the leaves give salvias their scent and flavour explains Penny Woodward.
![Shimmering salvias Red salvia flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/IMG_0704 (1)-500x500.jpg)
Shimmering salvias
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward says she wouldn't be without these surperb ornamental salvias in her garden.
![Botanic garden beauty Botanic garden beauty](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Cranbourne botanic gardens 2-500x500.jpg)
Botanic garden beauty
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Visit the award-winning Australian Garden in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne, to watch it develop and grow, writes Penny Woodward.
![Tidying your trees Removing suckers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/IMG_5710 - Version 2 (1)-500x500.jpg)
Tidying your trees
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Grab your secateurs. Now's the time to tidy up your trees, says Penny Woodward.
![Farming transformed Produce at Transition Farm](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/OG95Newsletter-620x350B-500x350.jpg)
Farming transformed
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward visits a thriving farm that’s producing masses of food from what was once malnourished soil.
![Top herbs to grow for tea Herbal tea](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Lemon balm tea-500x500.jpg)
Top herbs to grow for tea
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Why not grow your own herbs and make your own herbal teas? Penny Woodward investigates.
![A few favourite weeds Edible dandelion](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Dandelion-500x500.jpg)
A few favourite weeds
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward shares the hidden benefits of some of her favourite garden weeds.
![Mellow autumn fruitfulness Pomegranate fruit](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Pomegranate-500x500.jpg)
Mellow autumn fruitfulness
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Discover some unusual fruits that are havested in autumn, says Penny Woodward.
![Do you know your onions? A basket of garlic surrounded by other onions](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Other onions From front bottom left, clockwise- Red shallots, golden shallots, garlic (in the basket), tree onions, potato onions-500x500.jpg)
Do you know your onions?
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Penny Woodward says that now is a good time to know your 'other' onions.
![Salute to saffron Saffron flower showing stigma](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Saffron (1)-500x500.jpg)
Salute to saffron
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Saffron's stigma is worth its weight in gold, explains Penny Woodward.
![Radish for breakfast? Delicious radish](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/IMG_4154-500x500.jpg)
Radish for breakfast?
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
As you pull out summer vegies, PENNY WOODWARD suggests a quick-growing replacement.
![The virtuous bay Bay tree leaves and flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Bay, Laurus nobilis-500x500.jpg)
The virtuous bay
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Plant a bay, says PENNY WOODWARD, it's one of the most useful trees you can grow.
![Pollinating pumpkins Pumpkin and flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Potimaron pumpkin with a female flower at left-500x500.jpg)
Pollinating pumpkins
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Help your pumpkins along with these easy pollination tips from PENNY WOODWARD.
![Savoury sage Sage in flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Sage, Salvia officinalis .JPG-500x500.jpg)
Savoury sage
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Sage advice: used in medicine and cooking, it's well worth growing in your garden, writes Penny Woodward.
![Edible ornamentals Young Violetta artichoke flower buds](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Artichoke, Violetta, young flower buds harvested-500x500.jpg)
Edible ornamentals
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Good looking and tasty. Could we call these edimentals? PENNY WOODWARD investigates.
![Black garlic Black garlic bulbs](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Black garlic-500x500.jpg)
Black garlic
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
It's not hard to make black garlic says PENNY WOODWARD, so give it a go following her helpful instructions.
![It’s time for thyme Cretan thyme](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Thymus longicaulis ssp. chaubardii-500x500.jpg)
It’s time for thyme
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Ground-cover thymes can be tough and versatile in the garden, says PENNY WOODWARD.
![Roses for jam Delicous rose petals](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/IMG_7772-500x500.jpg)
Roses for jam
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Rose petals make a delightful addition to many foods including stawberry jam, says PENNY WOODWARD
![Itchy and scratchy Paralysis tick](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Tick620x350-500x350.jpg)
Itchy and scratchy
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
'Tis the season for mozzies and ticks. Try these helpful plants to take the sting out of their bite, writes PENNY WOODWARD.
![The best of basil Basil](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/OG90Basil620x350-500x350.jpg)
The best of basil
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
There's more than one basil for your kitchen garden, writes PENNY WOODWARD.
![Rhubarb bounty Bright red rubarb stems](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Rhubarb-500x500.jpg)
Rhubarb bounty
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When Penny Woodward has a prolific crop of rhubarb there's usually plenty of uses, but one of her favourites is a very moreish cake.
![Getting the best from your tomatoes TOMATO TIME](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Tomatoes620x350-500x350.jpg)
Getting the best from your tomatoes
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With tomato season in full swing, PENNY WOODWARD has gathered growing and seed-saving advice for wherever you live in Australia.
![Stunning sunflowers Terracotta sunflowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Sunflower-500x500.jpg)
Stunning sunflowers
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With the weather warming, PENNY WOODWARD says to plant sunflowers now.
![Recycled climbing frames Purple ladder climbing frame](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/IMG_4551-500x500.jpg)
Recycled climbing frames
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PENNY WOODWARD suggests repurposed vegie climbing frames for your garden.
![Gardens for the future? RBGV herbarium](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/IMG_6950-500x500.jpg)
Gardens for the future?
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PENNY WOODWARD says that you can have your say about these iconic gardens.
![Shady herbs Yellow primose flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/IMG_0570-500x500.jpg)
Shady herbs
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PENNY WOODWARD suggests some shade-loving herbs for those difficult positions.
![Turmeric is just the tonic Freshly harvested turmeric roots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Turmeric-500x500.jpg)
Turmeric is just the tonic
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Turmeric is a cure-all plant that is easy to grow in all but the coldest regions, says PENNY WOODWARD.
![Make a bouquet garni Bunches of herbs](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Bouquet garni-500x500.jpg)
Make a bouquet garni
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Add a bunch of flavour to your winter soups and stews with PENNY WOODWARD'S tips for beautiful bouquet garni.
![Crazy for coriander Coriander leaves](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Coriander, Coriandrum sativum-500x500.jpg)
Crazy for coriander
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PENNY WOODWARD says versatile coriander deserves a place in every garden.
![Walking onions Tree onion bulbs and bulbils](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Walking_onions-500x500.jpg)
Walking onions
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An onion that walks accross the garden, how can that be? asks PENNY WOODWARD
![Compost – a recipe for success Triple compost bin](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Compost_620pxW-500x395.jpg)
Compost – a recipe for success
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To celebrate International Compost Awareness Week PENNY WOODWARD shares her recipe for compost success.
![Healthier air Indoor plant](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Indoor_plant_620pxW-500x414.jpg)
Healthier air
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Indoor plants make your air cleaner, says PENNY WOODWARD. Here, she explains how.
![Mixed spices Mixed spices](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Spices_01_620pxW-500x400.jpg)
Mixed spices
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Home gardeners might consider spices too unusual and tricky to grow, but PENNY WOODWARD says there are good choices for warm and cool climates.
![Garlic planting time Creole Group garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Rojo de Castro-500x500.jpg)
Garlic planting time
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Autumn is prime garlic planting time, says PENNY WOODWARD. check out her tips for a bumper crop.
![Herb garden basics Herbs in a herb garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Raised herb garden-500x500.jpg)
Herb garden basics
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Autumn is a good time to plant herbs, so PENNY WOODWARD tells us how to start.
![Grow your own lettuces Lettuces in hanging basket](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/IMG_0523-500x500.jpg)
Grow your own lettuces
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Forget about buying bagged lettuce says PENNY WOODWARD, have go at growing your own.
![Bountiful bananas Banana flower and fruit](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Banana-500x500.jpg)
Bountiful bananas
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Have you thought of growing bananas in your cool climate garden? asks PENNY WOODWARD.
![French tarragon Bright green leaves of French tarragon](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/IMG_9092-790x526-500x500.jpg)
French tarragon
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With a delicious, mellow aniseed flavour, PENNY WOODWARD says French tarragon should be in everyone's garden.
![Conserving moisture Creating removable shade](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/IMG_5576-500x500.jpg)
Conserving moisture
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Some tips from PENNY WOODWARD to keep your garden alive if you are away for a few days and during very hot weather.
![Snail and slug protection Protection from snails](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Bean seedlings protected from snails and slugs by a copper collar-500x500.jpg)
Snail and slug protection
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PENNY WOODWARD explains how to keep these slimy critters away.
![Garlic, harvesting and curing Curing](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_1557-500x500.jpg)
Garlic, harvesting and curing
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PENNY WOODWARD tells us when to harvest our garlic and how to cure and store it.
![Sweet as Golden Bantam sweet corn](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Golden Bantam sweetcorn.JPG-500x500.jpg)
Sweet as
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Boil the water, pick the corn, plunge into the boiling water and enjoy! says PENNY WOODWARD
![A strange fish Edible fishy leaves](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Variegated fish plant-500x500.jpg)
A strange fish
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Lizard tail, heartleaf and swamp pepper are other names for this intriguing edible plant, writes PENNY WOODWARD.
![Get to know your garden critters Get to know your garden critters](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/coverscombined-500x388.jpg)
Get to know your garden critters
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Do you know the pests you're dealing with asks PENNY WOODWARD
![To prune or not to prune? To prune or not to prune?](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/TK - Tomato pruning 3 ALAN BENSON.lowres.jpg)
To prune or not to prune?
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Opinion is divided on whether tomatoes benefit from pruning, writes Penny Woodward.
![Aussie citrus Native australian citrus](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Citrus Australian Sunrise-500x500.jpg)
Aussie citrus
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Native limes, like finger and desert limes, can be planted now, says PENNY WOODWARD
![Suffer from hay fever? Pretty pansy faces](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Pansies are low allergy plants-500x500.jpg)
Suffer from hay fever?
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As the hay fever season approaches, PENNY WOODWARD looks at how sufferers can keep gardening.
![High-wire act Sugar glider poles](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Sugar glider highway-500x412.jpg)
High-wire act
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Have you noticed these poles when driving along the Hume Highway? asks PENNY WOODWARD.
![Colclough walled garden Flowers in the walled garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Flowers in the walled garden-500x480.jpeg)
Colclough walled garden
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A chance signpost and a meandering walk through Irish woodland led PENNY WOODWARD to a secret walled garden.
![Citrus gall wasp Citrus gall wasp swelling](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/The swelling caused by the citrus gall wasp-500x500.jpg)
Citrus gall wasp
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PENNY WOODWARD explains the ins and outs of a citrus gall wasp’s lifecycle and what you can do to control them.
![Leafy salad greens Leafy salad greens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Lettuce_Kirsten-Bresciani-500x500.jpg)
Leafy salad greens
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Although winter is not normally associated with salads, it's a great time for growing leafy greens, says PENNY WOODWARD
![Worm warriors Worms help the soil](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/A handful of wormfarm worms-500x500.jpg)
Worm warriors
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Diverse soil communities can limit the effects of climate change, explains PENNY WOODWARD.
![What is a Chinese artichoke? Chinese artichoke tubers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Chinese artichokes-500x500.jpg)
What is a Chinese artichoke?
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These witchetty-grub like tubers are nutty and sweet says PENNY WOODWARD.
![Tangy tamarillo Bright red and yellow tamarillo](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/IMG_2100 (1)-500x500.jpg)
Tangy tamarillo
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These fruit are worth growing just for their vibrant colours says PENNY WOODWARD
![CSIRO climate analogue website How will climate affect rural properties?](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/IMG_6895-500x500.jpg)
CSIRO climate analogue website
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
What might your local climate be in 2030, 2050, 2090? asks PENNY WOODWARD
![Carrot crops Coloured carrots.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Coloured carrots 1-500x500.jpg)
Carrot crops
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No matter where you live, PENNY WOODWARD says that carrots can be planted now.
![Tasty tomatoes Tomatoes of different colour](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IMG_1732 - Version 2-500x500.jpg)
Tasty tomatoes
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With tomato havest in full swing PENNY WOODWARD says now is the time to try some different cultivars.
![Succulent sedums Red succulent, sedum](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Sedum 'Red Emporer'-500x500.jpg)
Succulent sedums
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Sometimes we forget about the tough, hard working plants in our gardens, says PENNY WOODWARD
![Pyrethroid pesticide warning Pyrethum daisies](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Pyrethrum-500x500.jpg)
Pyrethroid pesticide warning
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PENNY WOODWARD asks how safe are our ‘safe’ insecticides?
![Fungi facts Toadstool or mushroom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Amanita muscari-500x500.jpg)
Fungi facts
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PENNY WOODWARD says it is good to look after most of the fungi growing in your garden.
![Sun-loving santolina Yellow button flowers of santolina](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/IMG_8726-500x500.jpg)
Sun-loving santolina
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PENNY WOODWARD says grey-leafed plants like santolina thrive in hot, dry weather.
![Dill is for digestion Dill flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Dill flower-500x500.jpg)
Dill is for digestion
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This ‘gallant expeller of wind’ eases indigestion caused by Christmas fare, says PENNY WOODWARD.
![Heirloom pumpkins Multi coloured and shaped pumpkins](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Heirloom Pumpkins-500x500.jpg)
Heirloom pumpkins
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PENNY WOODWARD reminds us that it's not too late to plant pumpkins to ensure a good supply for winter.
![Why not try turmeric? Bright orange turmeric](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Turmeric-500x500.jpg)
Why not try turmeric?
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Turmeric is easier to grow than ginger, says PENNY WOODWARD, and has many varied uses.
![Beautiful bee magnets Pink flower spikes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Echium, Pink-500x500.jpg)
Beautiful bee magnets
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Versatile, tough and very beautiful, PENNY WOODWARD asks what more could you want from Echium?
![Grow alpine strawberries Delicious alpine strawberry](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Alpine strawberry-500x500.jpg)
Grow alpine strawberries
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PENNY WOODWARD suggests you try growing these tiny morsels of delight.
![Delightful, delicious daylily Red daylily flower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Day lily, edible flower-500x500.jpg)
Delightful, delicious daylily
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Tough, easy to grow, beautiful and delicous. What more could you want asks PENNY WOODWARD
![Record warm days White cherry blossom](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Cherry blossom-500x500.jpg)
Record warm days
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Are there strange things happening in your garden? asks PENNY WOODWARD
![Micro meals for chooks Jane and Lizzie feeding on microgreens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/08 Jane and Lizzie feeding on microgreens_HR.lowres-500x403.jpg)
Micro meals for chooks
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Microgreens may be small on size but they are big on benefits for chooks, writes PENNY WOODWARD.
![Satisfying saltbush (orach) Red salad leaves](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Deep purple-red leaves of orach contrast strongly with the fresh green leaves of lettuce.JPG_-500x500.jpg)
Satisfying saltbush (orach)
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With winter close PENNY WOODWARD suggests growing the versatile vegetable, orach.
![Planting garlic Italian purple garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Freshly harvested homegrown garlic-500x500.jpg)
Planting garlic
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Garlic is easy to grow says Penny Woodward and it’s not too late to plant it.
![Green roofs and walls Green walls and red roofs](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Red_container_at_MIFGS-500x500.jpg)
Green roofs and walls
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PENNY WOODWARD says the Living City display garden was a highlight of the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.
![Organic Gardener at Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show Organic Gardener stand](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/The Organic Gardener Stand-500x500.jpg)
Organic Gardener at Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
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It’s Australia’s biggest garden show and Organic Gardener will be there, explains PENNY WOODWARD.
![A festival of chilli, garlic and herbs Yellow chilli Fatalii](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Fatalii-500x500.jpg)
A festival of chilli, garlic and herbs
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Chillies and garlic come in diverse flavours says PENNY WOODWARD
![Pennyroyal and ants Sweetly scented pennyroyal](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/IMG_4509-500x500.jpg)
Pennyroyal and ants
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Pennyroyal, says PENNY WOODWARD, helps to control ants and other pests.
![Help them in the heat Shady chook pen](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/IMG_6960-500x500.jpg)
Help them in the heat
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PENNY WOODWARD explains that animals and birds suffer in the heat too.
![Pear and cherry slug Pear and cherry slug and damage](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/IMG_7275-500x500.jpg)
Pear and cherry slug
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Pear and cherry slug can be a problem for many types of fruit trees. Penny Woodward suggests how to take control if you find them in your garden.
![Herbicide alert Zucchini with cupped leaves](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Zucchini-500x500.jpg)
Herbicide alert
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It’s crucial to know the source of manure or mulch you use says PENNY WOODWARD.
![Bushfire community gardens and a manual Festival day at Jindivik community garden in Victoria](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Jindivik festival day-500x500.jpg)
Bushfire community gardens and a manual
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Community gardens are about community and getting hands into the soil says PENNY WOODWARD.
![Red and purple edibles Bronze, purple and red-leafed herbs and vegies](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Red-leafed herbs and vegies-500x500.jpg)
Red and purple edibles
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Add colour and interest to your garden by planting red and purple-leafed edible plants says PENNY WOODWARD.
![Mulches and mulching Mulched tomato seedling](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Tomato plant mulched with lucerne hay-500x500.jpg)
Mulches and mulching
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As the weather warms up and before soils dry out, PENNY WOODWARD is laying mulch. Why do we mulch and what can we use?
![Chives Purple chive flowers](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Chives -500x500.jpg)
Chives
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Spring is such a lovely time in the garden with an abundance of flowers. Chives is a very useful and quietly pretty plant that is often overlooked amongst this profusion.
![Blooming delicious! English lavender - Egerton Blue](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/English lavender Egerton Blue.JPG_.lowres (2)-500x427.jpg)
Blooming delicious!
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
PENNY WOODWARD reveals her favourite edible ?owers and how to grow them, while JULIE RAY describes their varied ?avours and culinary uses, from spicy nasturtium petals to nutritious sun?ower seeds.
![Full greens ahead Red pak choy](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/017 Red pak choy-500x500.jpg)
Full greens ahead
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Packed with flavour and nutrients, leafy Asian greens can be easily grown in all climates.
![Cherry Charm Cherries can be a challenge to grow, but worth the effort.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Cherry_Hero_DRAFT_02-500x422.jpg)
Cherry Charm
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Cherries can be tricky to grow, but the rewards are high and with new low-chill and dwarf varieties, more gardeners are giving them a go, writes PENNY WOODWARD.
![The story of a herb garden Designer Simon Dodd plants some seedlings.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Simon-Dodd-planting-500x280.jpg)
The story of a herb garden
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PENNY WOODWARD witnesses the transformation of old trial planting beds into a beautiful big herb garden. A large herb garden was established at Heronswood – the home of the Diggers Club in Dromana, Victoria – designed by gardeners Simon Dodd and Clive Blazey.
![Fabulous figs Once figs are picked, they stop ripening and need to be eaten or preserved as soon as possible.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/iStock_000013946829XXXLarge-500x487.jpg)
Fabulous figs
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Fresh figs are hard to find at markets and grocers, making them an ideal fruit tree for home gardens, says PENNY WOOWARD.
![On the snail trail Snails like to hide in large upturned pots which can be used as traps.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Snails-500x321.jpg)
On the snail trail
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PENNY WOODWARD goes to town on snails and slugs, testing a wide variety of methods for getting rid of these intriguing but troublesome pests.
![A vegetable to invest in Succulent spears of freshly picked asparagus are delicious raw or cooked.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/iStock_000003231477Largekcline-500x500.jpg)
A vegetable to invest in
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Asparagus is a tough, rewarding, long-term vegetable that, once established, will give many years of nutritious spears, writes PENNY WOODWARD.
![Herbs Burdock leaf in early autumn, ready for the roots to be harvested.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Burdock flowers-500x500.jpg)
Herbs
![](/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/divider.png)
Burdock (X Arctium lappa X) may be a tough, unglamorous and thistle–like, but it has a delicious edible root and invaluable medicinal uses, writes PENNY WOODWARD.
![Uplifting annuals The vibrant colours of zinnias are a great addition to any garden.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Zinnias istock-500x500.jpg)
Uplifting annuals
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PENNY WOODWARD brings colour and buzz to the organic garden with some favourite annual flowers.