Recent articles by Phil Dudman
![Grow Phil Dudman’s favourite Grow Phil Dudman's favourite](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Phil-Dudman_brussels-sprouts-500x500.jpg)
Grow Phil Dudman’s favourite
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Our horticultural editor Phil Dudman has discovered a new gardening joy: brussels sprouts.
![Which manure is best? Any herbivore manure makes a great soil conditioner.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/OG 149 best manure Phil Dudman_Anne Hutchcroft-500x500.jpg)
Which manure is best?
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Asking yourself whether chook poo or that bag of horse manure a friend has offered you for free is what you need? Consider these points first.
![Take your pick: early winter 2024 Use a sharp knife to cut cauliflower off the plant.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/OG 149 Harvest notes_cauliflower_istock-500x500.jpg)
Take your pick: early winter 2024
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Now is a good time to see if your limes, cauliflower and ginger are ready to be put to use in your kitchen.
![How to keep your lemon tree in shape With selective pruning, you can keep any lemon tree compact and productive.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/OG 149 Phil Dudman pruning lemon tree_Natsky-500x500.jpg)
How to keep your lemon tree in shape
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Questions on how to grow and care for lemon trees regularly top the list on garden shows and forums, so it's time for a refresher from our horticultural editor, Phil Dudman. Here's a good place to start.
![Take your pick: Autumn 2024 Pumpkins are ready when the skin has lost some of its sheen.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pumpkins_Kirsten Bresciani-500x500.jpg)
Take your pick: Autumn 2024
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Now is the time to see if you can fill your harvest basket with these tasty picks.
![Join the no-dig revolution As soon as you stop digging the soil starts to repair itself.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/OG 147 how to have a no-dig garden_Anne Hutchcroft_web-500x500.jpg)
Join the no-dig revolution
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There's a growing number of gardeners who have hung up the spade and adopted the no-dig approach. Phil Dudman explains why.
![Tropical fruits you can grow in your backyard Palmer mango is a compact variety.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Palmer mango_iStock-500x500.jpg)
Tropical fruits you can grow in your backyard
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Tropical fruits thrive in summer, which is also a good time to plant and establish them before the cool weather arrives. Phil Dudman profiles some of the popular choices.
![Success with seedlings Raising your own seedlings is a great skill to have as an organic gardener.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Seedlings by Anna Hutchcroft_socials-500x500.jpg)
Success with seedlings
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If you think raising your own vegies from seed is too hard, or you’ve tried it with limited success, don’t give up! Phil Dudman is here to offer some help.
![Grow more with climbing frames Plant support frames help with the organisation of your garden.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/OG 143 Mesh frame_Phil Dudman-500x500.jpg)
Grow more with climbing frames
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Build up to help you grow more in a limited space, care for your plants better and get higher returns at harvest time, writes Phil Dudman.
![Organic pest control: start here Pest exclusion nets are an organic gardener’s best friend.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Pest exclusion nets by Phil Dudman_web-500x500.jpg)
Organic pest control: start here
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Pests and diseases are to be expected, but one way to keep them at bay is to plant the right crops at the right time, writes Phil Dudman.
![Grow your own organic broccoli Broccoli is a crop that keeps on giving.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/139 broccoli Phil Dudman-500x500.jpg)
Grow your own organic broccoli
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With good preparation, you can have your own abundant harvest of fresh, nutritious vegetables through autumn and winter, writes Phil Dudman. Get started with broccoli and English spinach.
![Composting made easy Composting can be easy if you follow these tips.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/OG 138 composting by ANNEMARIE BOLDUC at BOTTLE AND BRUSH STUDIO web-500x500.jpg)
Composting made easy
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One of the questions you may have when it comes to compost is about hot vs cold composting. Here, Phil Dudman explains the difference.
![Peachy keen Phil Dudman pruning a peach tree](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Phil pruning peach tree-500x500.jpg)
Peachy keen
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It's time to prune peach and nectarine trees, writes PHIL DUDMAN. Check out his step-by-step guide.
![Biofumigation mustard seed](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/MustardSeed-500x500.jpg)
Biofumigation
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Keeping it clean with green manures. PHIL DUDMAN explains biofumigation.
![The hard graft Grafting tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Step 5-500x500.jpg)
The hard graft
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Grafting your favourite tomato onto pest-resistant root stock will help eradicate tomato disease, writes PHIL DUDMAN.
![Home-made pest remedies mango leaf, scale, pests](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/M3 - PEST 0711 524.lowres-500x480.jpg)
Home-made pest remedies
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Homemade White Oil Take an empty jar or plastic bottle, pour in a cup of ordinary cooking oil and ¼ cup of dishwashing liquid. Give it a good shake – you’ll see it turn white. That’s your white oil concentrate. Label the container with the correct dilution rate – ‘one tablespoon per litre of water’. […]
![Shortcuts to better soil Easy composting](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Compost cylinder 1-500x500.jpg)
Shortcuts to better soil
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PHIL DUDMAN outlines a simple time-saving technique for improving soil.
![Top Tomatoes Heirloom tomatoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/tomaotesg-500x500.jpg)
Top Tomatoes
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We asked four experts for their favourite tomatoes and tips to growing and cooking them.
![Getting started Getting started](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/planting_620x450-500x450.jpg)
Getting started
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Anyone can get into organic gardening, says PHIL DUDMAN. Here are his tips on starting out.
![A current review of the Australian Garlic Industry A current review of the Australian Garlic Industry](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Garlic 3 web-500x500.jpg)
A current review of the Australian Garlic Industry
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Organic Gardener Magazine contributor Penny Woodward will be one of the many experts speaking at the upcoming Garlic 2013 seminar in September.
![Winter warmers Vegetable and lamb casserole](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Hearty_casserole-500x470.jpg)
Winter warmers
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Winter calls for warming, hearty fare – think tasty casseroles filled with just-picked root veggies. PHIL DUDMAN and JULIE RAY share their thoughts.
![Coriander pesto Coriander pesto](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/coriander 1-500x500.jpg)
Coriander pesto
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If you love coriander, it’s hard to imagine you could ever have too much in the garden, but when you do, you could turn it into a delicious coriander pesto, writes PHIL DUDMAN.
![Stop the rot – how to control pawpaw fruit rot organically Stop the rot - how to control pawpaw fruit rot organically](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Pawpaw fruit rot-500x500.jpg)
Stop the rot – how to control pawpaw fruit rot organically
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Fruit rots are the curse of organic pawpaw growing. PHIL DUDMAN suggests some simple organic controls and cures.
![Lime-based whitewash Lime whitewash](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Whitewash_620px-500x350.jpg)
Lime-based whitewash
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Here is Phil Dudman’s explanation of how to make a whitewash to protect fruit tree trunks.
![Herbal teas from the organic garden Herbal Tea, grow your own](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Lemon-Balm-3_620px-500x289.jpg)
Herbal teas from the organic garden
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If the cold, winter days are making you feel a little run down, then maybe a warm cup of tea made from some regular garden herbs is just the thing to lift your spirits, writes PHIL DUDMAN.
![How to control ants organically How to control ants organically](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Ants-on-spoon_620px-500x289.jpg)
How to control ants organically
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Ants can be a real nuisance inside the home, but there’s no need to use highly toxic insecticides to control them, writes PHIL DUDMAN. Read on for some simple organic ant control strategies.
![Action diary for Autumn Action diary for Autumn](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Autumn_leaves_branch_620px-500x369.jpg)
Action diary for Autumn
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PHIL DUDMAN says autumn is action time in the organic garden and lists the must-do jobs.
![Winter Veg – Get Planting! Broccoli](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/landscape sept 08 207-500x289.jpg)
Winter Veg – Get Planting!
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Prepare winter crops now to maximize your potential harvest, writes PHIL DUDMAN
![How to graft citrus How to graft citrus](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Bark Graft-500x289.jpg)
How to graft citrus
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If you’d like to try your hand at grafting fruit trees, then have a go at citrus. It’s easy to do and allows you to grow a greater variety of fruit in less space, writes PHIL DUDMAN.
![Celebrate summer with peaches Peach meringue stack with peach syrup](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/NEW-MERINGUE-IMAGE_MG_9445-500x473.jpg)
Celebrate summer with peaches
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Join PHIL DUDMAN and JULIE RAY to celebrate the best of summer’s organic bounty with this festive fare featuring plump, perfect peaches.
![Too hot? Grow microgreens Too hot? Grow microgreens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Bok Choy Pots-500x500.jpg)
Too hot? Grow microgreens
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If it’s getting too hot for growing your favourite leafy greens and herbs in the garden, then try growing your own organic microgreens in pots, writes PHIL DUDMAN
![How to solve problems with passionfruit passionfruit](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/passionfruit 2-500x500.jpg)
How to solve problems with passionfruit
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Got a passionfruit vine that’s giving you grief? Garden writer PHIL DUDMAN helps to unravel some of the most common hitches.
![How to Grow Organic Lychees How to Grow Organic Lychees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Lychee 2-500x500.jpg)
How to Grow Organic Lychees
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December marks the beginning of the Lychee season in Australia. PHIL DUDMAN shares his love for this delicious subtropical fruit along with his organic tips for growing them.
![How to harvest and store onions How to harvest and store onions](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Onions OG Blog-500x500.jpg)
How to harvest and store onions
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With the right pre and post-harvest treatment, your homegrown organic onions will store for months. PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips and experiences.
![Asparagus royale Asparagus and beef involtini with heirloom cherry tomatoes.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/_MG_9300-2-500x413.jpg)
Asparagus royale
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While its crisp, crunchy spears have long been coveted by royalty the world over, asparagus is a no-fuss prolific crop that makes for some tasty modern-day fare, say PHIL DUDMAN and JULIE RAY.
![How to prepare for summer organic gardening How to prepare for summer organic gardening](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Water Fruit 1-500x500.jpg)
How to prepare for summer organic gardening
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Summer in the organic garden can pose its challenges, particularly in hot areas. PHIL DUDMAN shares a few tips for staying cool and keeping crops productive.
![How to control tomato caterpillar How to control tomato caterpillar](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Tomato caterpillar-500x500.jpg)
How to control tomato caterpillar
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PHIL DUDMAN describes his latest organic strategy for controlling tomato caterpillar
![Growing Organic Mangoes Growing Organic Mangoes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Mango 1-500x500.jpg)
Growing Organic Mangoes
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If you love mango, then brace yourself for a bumper crop this year. PHIL DUDMAN explains why ‘this could be the year’ and shares his tips for planting and growing organic mangoes in small backyards.
![Pollinating zucchinis Pollinating zucchinis](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Zucchini_flowers-500x280.jpg)
Pollinating zucchinis
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Wondering why your zucchinis won’t develop properly? The garden guru PHIL DUDMAN helps you solve this problem.Watch how to ensure that your flowers develop fruit, by pollinating them yourself.
![Pumpkins Calling Pumpkins Calling](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/P4090133-500x500.jpg)
Pumpkins Calling
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They’re easy to grow and just as easy to store. If you love your pumpkins boiled, baked or blended, then now is the time to plan your summer crop, says PHIL DUDMAN
![Tips for growing the best organic beetroot Tips for growing the best organic beetroot](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Beetroot Harvest 3-500x500.jpg)
Tips for growing the best organic beetroot
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Spring is the primetime for planting beetroot right across Australia. Phil Dudman shares his organic planting and growing tips.
![Growing organic cucumbers Need inspiration for your cucumber yields? Read on!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Cuc OG (1)-500x500.jpg)
Growing organic cucumbers
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Cucumbers are easy to grow organically and don’t need much room, and now’s the time to get planting, even in cooler areas, says PHIL DUDMAN
![10 Top Reasons for Going Organic 10 Top Reasons for Going Organic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/GROW-500x500.jpg)
10 Top Reasons for Going Organic
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If you’re not already convinced, here are PHIL DUDMAN’S top 10 reasons for growing your own organic food. Spread it around!
![Protecting vegies from the cold Protecting vegies from the cold](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/P1010195-500x500.jpg)
Protecting vegies from the cold
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As July temperatures plummet, PHIL DUDMAN shares some tips for safeguarding sensitive crops.
![Broccoli and Potato Soup Broccoli and Potato Soup](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Broccoli_soup-500x500.jpg)
Broccoli and Potato Soup
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Broccoli can be anything but boring. Just ask PHIL DUDMAN and JULIE RAY who have found creative ways of turning this winter staple into a tasty treat that even the kids will love.
![Cooking with organic mandarins Cooking with organic mandarins](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/mandrin-cakes-500x500.jpg)
Cooking with organic mandarins
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Not sure what to do with your glut of organic mandarins? Try this delicious recipe idea, says PHIL DUDMAN
![Eat your organic broccoli, leaves, stems and all Eat your organic broccoli, leaves, stems and all](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/broccoli leaves-500x500.jpg)
Eat your organic broccoli, leaves, stems and all
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If you’re growing your own organic broccoli, be sure to make use of the leaves as well. They make delicious and nutritious eating, says Phil Dudman.
![How to make your own seed raising mix How to make your own seed raising mix](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PC080286-500x500.jpg)
How to make your own seed raising mix
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Raising seedlings is an important part organic vegetable gardening and to do it well, you need a quality seed raising mix. There’s no need to be spending good money on commercial product when you can make your own for less, says PHIL DUDMAN
![Keep it Clean Sterilise your garden tools when moving between different crops to prevent transfer of disease.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/iStock_000018132301Large-500x500.jpg)
Keep it Clean
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Good garden hygiene is paramount to reducing the incidence of pests and diseases, writes PHIL DUDMAN.
![How to control cabbage caterpillars organically – for good! How to control cabbage caterpillars organically – for good!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Veggie Net Cabbage-500x500.jpg)
How to control cabbage caterpillars organically – for good!
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Cabbage caterpillars getting you down? Try netting your crop, says PHIL DUDMAN
![How do you use your garlic chives? Garlic Chives](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Garlic Chives 1-500x500.jpg)
How do you use your garlic chives?
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PHIL DUDMAN has a ton of garlic chives in his garden and is on a mission to find ways to make better use of them in the kitchen.
![Phil’s Tomato Hothouse Phil's Tomato Hothouse](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Tomato Hothouse-500x500.jpg)
Phil’s Tomato Hothouse
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What do you do when your organic tomato crops constantly fall victim to rain and cold? You bang up a ‘fancy’ hothouse to protect them, says PHIL DUDMAN.
![Michael Ableman: Organic farming Michael Ableman Australian Speaking Tour 2012](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/michael-abelman-500x280.jpg)
Michael Ableman: Organic farming
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Internationally renowned farmer, speaker, author and leader in sustainable organic agriculture Michael Ableman talks about his ideas for urban agriculture, writes PHIL DUDMAN.
![Growing Organic Strawberries Growing Organic Strawberries](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Tre and Jai in Strawberry Patch-500x500.jpg)
Growing Organic Strawberries
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Nothing beats organically grown strawberries for flavour and in many parts of the country, particularly warmer zones, autumn is the time to be starting a strawberry patch, or rejuvenating an existing one, says PHIL DUDMAN.
![Yield ahead! Yield ahead!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/iStock_Preserves-500x493.jpg)
Yield ahead!
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From bottling to drying, PHIL DUDMAN and JULIE RAY give the lowdown on harvesting and preserving your bumper crops to create a year’s supply of gourmet goodies.
![Standout garden at MIFGS 2012 Standout garden at MIFGS 2012](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/P3280039-500x500.jpg)
Standout garden at MIFGS 2012
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It didn’t win awards for cutting edge garden design, but it certainly warmed the heart of Organic Gardener’s PHIL DUDMAN during his visit to this year’s Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.
![How much shade can your vegies take? How much shade can your vegies take?](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/P8020004-500x500.jpg)
How much shade can your vegies take?
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We’ve heard it all before. Plant your vegies in a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours direct sun a day. But for many of us with small backyards, it’s just not practical. Shady PHIL DUDMAN takes a good look at his own shady reality and suggests some crops that are ‘made in the shade’.
![Get going with garlic organic garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Garlic 1-500x500.jpg)
Get going with garlic
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Garlic is a winter crop in most areas, and if you live in warmer parts of the country, it pays to start planting now, says PHIL DUDMAN
![Cabbage on my mind Cabbage on my mind](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/P3080207-500x500.jpg)
Cabbage on my mind
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The subtle chill of an early autumn morning has PHIL DUDMAN in a planting frenzy of all things Brassicaceae.
![My First Figs My First Figs](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Preserved Fig Cropped-500x404.jpg)
My First Figs
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PHIL DUDMAN has found figs delightfully easy to grow in the wet subtropics, despite everything he was told.
![Costa to host Gardening Australia New ABC TV host Costa Georgiadis with Organic Gardener's Julie Ray & Phil Dudman](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Julie, Costa, Phil-500x500.jpg)
Costa to host Gardening Australia
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ABC TV’s Gardening Australia is set for a new look this year when it welcomes new host Costa Georgiadis to the screen, reports PHIL DUDMAN
![How to Grow Organic Eggplant How to Grow Organic Eggplant](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Eggplant 1-500x500.jpg)
How to Grow Organic Eggplant
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Eggplant is the perfect summer crop for organic gardeners, but it doesn’t come without its challenges, says PHIL DUDMAN
![Better in the shade Better in the shade](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Poly frame 2-500x500.jpg)
Better in the shade
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Don’t let your organic crops wilt to mush in the blistering summer sun. Give them a chance with a little shade. PHIL DUDMAN shares his shady tips.
![How to control the 28 spotted leaf eating ladybird organically How to control the 28 spotted leaf eating ladybird organically](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Ladybird zucchini 1-500x500.jpg)
How to control the 28 spotted leaf eating ladybird organically
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They may look friendly, but this little ladybird could do irreversible damage to your organic crops in summer, and they’re out there in big numbers, so be on the lookout, says PHIL DUDMAN
![How to grow organic edible figs How to grow organic edible figs](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Fig fruit 1-500x500.jpg)
How to grow organic edible figs
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Homegrown figs are so mind-blowingly sweet and delicious. PHIL DUDMAN shares his organic secrets for growing the best with tips for dealing with typical pests.
![Organic watermelon frame 2 Organic watermelon frame 2](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Bamboo support 1-500x500.jpg)
Organic watermelon frame 2
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Things are progressing well with PHIL DUDMAN’s trial watermelon frame. It’s a great way to grow lots of organic watermelons in small spaces.
![Organic Watermelon Frame Organic Watermelon Frame](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Watermelon Frame Web-500x500.jpg)
Organic Watermelon Frame
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Small spaces won’t stop PHIL DUDMAN from growing his favourite organic crops. This week it’s watermelon!
![Too much coriander Coriander](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Coriander-500x500.jpg)
Too much coriander
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Is that possible? PHIL DUDMAN shares some of his favourite ways of enjoying an oversupply of this wonderful herb
![Zucchini Frame Update Zucchini Frame Update](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Zucchini Frame 2-500x500.jpg)
Zucchini Frame Update
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With wet and windy weather dominating, PHIL DUDMAN’s zucchini frame is proving it’s worth.
![Organic Papaw Revival Organic Papaw Revival](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Phone photos 045-500x500.jpg)
Organic Papaw Revival
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Last winter was tough on papaws. PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips for getting your organic papaws back in shape.
![Cooking with Organic Broccoli Cooking with Organic Broccoli](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Broccoli 1-500x500.jpg)
Cooking with Organic Broccoli
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What to do with a bumper harvest of organic broccoli? PHIL DUDMAN shares some super recipes.
![How to train organic zucchini/courgettes How to train organic zucchini/courgettes](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Frame 1 low res-500x500.jpg)
How to train organic zucchini/courgettes
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PHIL DUDMAN’s organic zucchinis have been framed, and he explains why.
![How to grow organic ginger How to grow organic ginger](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/ginger 1-500x500.jpg)
How to grow organic ginger
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Fresh organic ginger is expensive to buy, but incredibly easy to grow. PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips.
![Spring vegie head start Spring vegie head start](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Hmade greenhouse-500x500.jpg)
Spring vegie head start
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Gardeners in warm areas are busy planting out their organic spring crops. With a little protection, you can give seedlings a head start in cold areas too. PHIL DUDMAN, shares a few ideas for a simple homemade coldframe.
![Mad about Kale Mad about Kale](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PB220172-500x500.jpg)
Mad about Kale
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Ever since I saw Peter Cundall drinking boiled kale juice like an elixir of youth, I’ve been mad about growing and eating it myself, says PHIL DUDMAN.
![Citrus: how to carry out winter maintenance Citrus Gall Wasp](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Gall Wasp-500x500.jpg)
Citrus: how to carry out winter maintenance
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Citrus have provided us with a bumper crop of organic fruit again this season. So what now? PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips for pruning, spraying and fertilising in preparation for another productive year ahead.
![Citrus: Recipes that make the most of your bounty Citrus: Recipes that make the most of your bounty](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Preserved Lemons-500x500.jpg)
Citrus: Recipes that make the most of your bounty
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Citrus trees dripping with fruit? PHIL DUDMAN shares some recipes for preserving and cooking with organic citrus.
![Mother of 6 faces jail for planting vegies GYO breaking the law](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Locked up for gardening.jpg)
Mother of 6 faces jail for planting vegies
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A Michigan women faces 93 days in jail for planting a vegetable garden in her front yard, reports PHIL DUDMAN
![How to Grow Organic Container Crops How to grow vegetables in Pots](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Gsmart 4-500x500.jpg)
How to Grow Organic Container Crops
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PHIL DUDMAN shares an idea for maximizing returns with container growing, along with his prized recipe for an organic potting mix that guarantees success every time.
![What to do with too many organic pumpkins What to do with too many organic pumpkins](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Spinach and Pumpkin lasagne 1.jpeg)
What to do with too many organic pumpkins
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Pumpkins are one of those easy-grow organic crops that are incredibly prolific. PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips for storing your excess along with a warming pumpkin recipe for winter.
![How to grow organic Nagami cumquat Nagami cumquat](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/70_nagamicumquat.jpg)
How to grow organic Nagami cumquat
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Looking for a fruit tree that will thrive in a pot? Try a Nagami cumquat, says PHIL DUDMAN
![How to make straw bale gardens How to make straw bale gardens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Setaria (Small)-500x479.jpg)
How to make straw bale gardens
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They must be the ultimate in lazy gardening. PHIL DUDMAN explains how to turn a simple straw bale into a productive organic garden in seconds flat.
![Give chokos a go The under-utilised choko is a great winter crop!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/choko 1-500x500.jpg)
Give chokos a go
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Chokos are at their productive peak, but there must be more to cooking them than smothering them in white sauce. PHIL DUDMAN puts the challenge to his foodie buddy Julie Ray.
![Why I love Wombok Why I love Wombok](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Wombok x 2 tied (2)-500x500.jpg)
Why I love Wombok
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Give me a Chinese Cabbage before a European Cabbage any day, reports PHIL DUDMAN
![How to Transplant Fruit Trees Transplanting Fruit Trees](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/tree 2-500x500.jpg)
How to Transplant Fruit Trees
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Got a fruit tree in the wrong spot? PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips for successful transplanting.
ABC radio grows their own organic vegies
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ABC Staff walk the Grow-Your-Own talk by building their own organic vegie patch at the Lismore studios, reports PHIL DUDMAN
![How to plant peas Now is the time to plant peas!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/peas-500x500.jpg)
How to plant peas
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The conditions are perfect for planting peas. PHIL DUDMAN shares his secrets for a bumper organic harvest.
![From lawn to vegies A rotary hoe is a quick way of converting turf to garden beds.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/GB-4---Converting-the-lawn-copy-500x412.jpg)
From lawn to vegies
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PHIL DUDMAN explains how to dig up a patch of lawn and get started growing nutritious vegies.
![How to grow organic garlic Autumn is the time to be planting garlic](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Garlic 2-500x500.jpg)
How to grow organic garlic
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Autumn is the time to be planting organic garlic. PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips for getting you started.
![How to propagate organic herbs Propagate lavendar now after the wet, humid summer](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Lavender Propagating-500x500.jpg)
How to propagate organic herbs
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A wet humid summer in many areas has taken it's toll on our favourite Mediterranean type herbs. PHIL DUDMAN says it's a good time to be propagating replacements, and shares his secrets for success.
![Ten Top Vegies to Plant Now in the Organic Garden Ten Top Vegies to Plant Now in the Organic Garden](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/themes/organicgardener-2024/img/no-image.png)
Ten Top Vegies to Plant Now in the Organic Garden
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Patch looking a bare after a long hot summer? PHIL DUDMAN shares his top 10 vegetables to be planting now in the organic vegie garden, along with a few tips for growing success.
![Ceylon spinach challenge Ceylon spinach challenge](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/saanchoy-12.jpg)
Ceylon spinach challenge
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Ceylon spinach is a fantastic plant to grow in summer to provide lots of leafy greens from the organic garden when other favorites are out of season. Some find it a little slimey when cooked, but PHIL DUDMAN has discovered the secret to preparing this vegetable with some yummy Ceylon spinach recipes.
![Asian Cucumber Salad Need inspiration for your cucumber yields? Read on!](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Cuc OG (1)-500x500.jpg)
Asian Cucumber Salad
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More cucumbers than you can cope with? PHIL DUDMAN shares another tasty recipe for enjoying this most prolific summer crop.
![How to make a worm farm tower Phil Dudman shows us how to make a worm farm tower](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/worm tower-500x500.jpg)
How to make a worm farm tower
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Looking for an easier way to reap the benefits of a worm farm. PHIL DUDMAN describes how to make a worm tower, which cuts out unnecessary handling and maintenance.
![How to cook the three sisters Phil Dudman puts the three sisters organic cooking recipe to the test](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/dudders edited-500x471.jpg)
How to cook the three sisters
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PHIL DUDMAN and his fab foodie friend Julie Ray have put the famous ‘Three Sisters’ combo to the test, only this time, in the kitchen. Check out the scrumptious recipes they prepared live to air on ABC North Coast which combined organic corn, beans and zucchini.
![How to control disease in organic vegetable gardens How to control disease in organic vegetable gardens](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Mook1_p106_620px-500x350.jpg)
How to control disease in organic vegetable gardens
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Wet humid weather is a recipe for fungal problems in the vegie patch. PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips on how to control plant diseases organically.
![How to make organic beetroot dip Use your organic beetroot crops to make delicious home-made organic dip.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/beetroot dip (Small)-500x479.jpg)
How to make organic beetroot dip
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PHIL DUDMAN shares a scrumptious recipe for making an easy beetroot dip fresh from your organic garden
![How to fertilise by foliar feeding Spray organic fertilizer straight on to leaves for a quick nutrient boost](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Foliar Feeding Citrus-500x500.jpg)
How to fertilise by foliar feeding
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PHIL DUDMAN explains how to use organic liquid fertilisers to foliar feed hungry plants in your garden.
![How to control tomato caterpillars Tomato caterpillars can be controlled using organic methods.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/P7040005-500x500.jpg)
How to control tomato caterpillars
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PHIL DUDMAN explains how to control tomato caterpillars in an organic garden using eco friendly products.
![Organic gardens in schools mean the future is in good hands Schools are embracing organic gardening principles with school gardens.](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Worm Farm 1 (Small)-500x479.jpg)
Organic gardens in schools mean the future is in good hands
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Kids are ready, willing and able to take organics into the future with flourishing school gardens, writes PHIL DUDMAN
![Roof top farming in the big apple Roof top farming in the big apple](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Brooklyn Grange Farm-500x500.jpg)
Roof top farming in the big apple
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An innovative group of New Yorkers turn a city roof top into a highly productive organic farm, reports PHIL DUDMAN
![Organic farming gets hip Organic farming gets hip](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Yeo Valley copy-500x500.jpg)
Organic farming gets hip
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Hip hop beats and rhymes help to sell the 'go organic' message in the UK, reports PHIL DUDMAN.
![Getting diligent about disease Getting diligent about disease](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Powdery Mildew - Squash-500x500.jpg)
Getting diligent about disease
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Regular checks and clean ups are the key to keeping diseases at bay, especially during wet weather, writes PHIL DUDMAN
![Down-to-earth garden design Down-to-earth garden design](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/og-gardendesign-500x280.jpg)
Down-to-earth garden design
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Good garden design can be a mystery to many, but when you follow the steps that professionals use, you can create something that is both beautiful and functional, says PHIL DUDMAN
![Go kumara go Go kumara go](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Purple Kumara 1-500x500.jpg)
Go kumara go
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If you struggle to grow decent crop of spuds in the summer then why don’t you try sweet potato, says PHIL DUDMAN, and now is the time to get planting.
![School of gardening rocks School of gardening rocks](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Kids_in_garden-500x350.jpg)
School of gardening rocks
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Gardening in schools is more than teaching kids practical life skills, it’s proving to have a positive impact on literacy and numeracy as well, reports PHIL DUDMAN.
![Phil’s spring to-do list Phil's spring to-do list](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Spring veg_istock-500x500.jpg)
Phil’s spring to-do list
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Is your vegie garden spring ready? PHIL DUDMAN has some tasks you can put into action now.
![Checklist for spring Checklist for spring](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Spring Veggie Head Start-500x500.jpg)
Checklist for spring
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Is your vegie garden spring ready? PHIL DUDMAN has some tasks you can put into action now.
![Show your citrus some lovin’ Nagami Cumquat](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Nagami Cumquat-500x500.jpg)
Show your citrus some lovin’
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If you’ve been enjoying a bumper crop of citrus this year, now is the time to give something back reports Phil Dudman.
![Organic Weed Control Organic Weed Control](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/sheetmulching3-500x500.jpg)
Organic Weed Control
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PHIL DUDMAN shares somes tips for controlling weeds without using poisons.
![Miracle Molasses Miracle Molasses](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Molasses-500x500.jpg)
Miracle Molasses
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Molasses makes a handy addition to any gardener’s pest control kit. You can use it to manage chewing pests like caterpillars as well as root knot nematodes. PHIL DUDMAN describes how.
![Snail Alert Snails love seedlings](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Snail 2 (4)-500x500.jpg)
Snail Alert
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Recent rains in many parts of the country have helped to unleash a stampede of snails. Phil Dudman looks at some simple organic controls to help protect your crops from these marauding invaders.
![Free compost and mulch Free compost and mulch](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Shovelling-500x500.jpg)
Free compost and mulch
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Some people like to grow their own… others enjoy scouring the suburbs for whatever they can get their hands on. PHIL DUDMAN explores some of the free sources of organic matter… what you can grow and what you can scrounge.
![Pick of the spinach English Spinach](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/English Spinach-500x500.jpg)
Pick of the spinach
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Of all the so called ‘spinach’s’, English spinach has the superior flavour and texture according to Phil Dudman and the cool season is the best time to plant in most parts of the country.
![Caterpillar Alert! Cabbage White Butterfly Larvae](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Cabbage White Butterfly Larvae-500x500.jpg)
Caterpillar Alert!
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Cabbages, broccoli, cauliflower and Asian greens are popular cool season crops that can all fall victims to hungry caterpillars. PHIL DUDMAN has some easy organic solutions.
![Cure for curly citrus Citrus Leafminer](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/citrus leafminer 1-500x500.jpg)
Cure for curly citrus
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Wondering why your citrus leaves look so distorted and unhealthy? PHIL DUDMAN reveals the cause and a recipe to fix it.
![Lawns – are they goodies or baddies? lawns](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/lawn 2-500x500.jpg)
Lawns – are they goodies or baddies?
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Gardeners, environmentalists and scientists alike… for years they’ve been debating one of life’s most pressing questions; are lawns good or bad? Phil Dudman is a fan of this Aussie icon, but the scientific evidence has him feeling uncertain.
![Leafy greens all year round Kangkong](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Kangkong2-500x500.jpg)
Leafy greens all year round
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Looking for a green leafy vegetable that will give you a healthy harvest any time of year? PHIL DUDMAN has been experimenting with growing Kangkong in a container and believes it makes a fabulous choice for busy city gardeners with limited space.
![Soils ain’t soils soils ain't soils](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/soil OG-500x500.jpg)
Soils ain’t soils
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If you’re setting up a new garden and thinking of trucking in a load of ‘organic soil blend’ from your local landscape yard, beware… some blends being sold are complete rubbish. Phil Dudman explains.
![Time for Planting Onions Spring Onions](https://www.organicgardener.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Onion Punnet-500x500.jpg)
Time for Planting Onions
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From leeks and shallots to red salad onions, the members of the onion family are an incredibly versatile lot and they’re wonderful crops to grow at home too. For most areas, now is the time to sow seed or plant seedlings and it’s particularly urgent in warmer areas where true onions need a long cool growing season to fully develop. PHIL DUDMAN tells you what you need to know to get your crop in the ground.