How to control the 28 spotted leaf eating ladybird organically

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

Blackberry Season

Unlike their wild, uncouth cousins, thornless blackberries are far more refined and oh so delicious. JUSTIN RUSSELL extolls the virtues of this underappreciated cool climate fruit.

How to grow organic edible figs

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.

Flower Power

As the caterpillar breeding season begins in earnest, fight them with flowers, writes JERRY COLEBY-WILLIAMS.

The King of Strawberries

It's tiny, easy going, yet one of the most delicious of all fruits. JUSTIN RUSSELL salutes the humble wild strawberry, fraises des bois.

Nature Will Have Her Way

An elusive boobook owl reminds JUSTIN RUSSELL that pest control in the garden is often best left to the birds.

When to harvest garlic?

To harvest, or not to harvest? It can be tricky to know when garlic is ready to be dug up, but JUSTIN RUSSELL has a simple method that doesn't involve counting leaves, and ignores the theory of set planting and harvesting dates.

The Myth of Disease Resistance

Could a new super-rose that is totally resistant to blackspot be a good fit for organic gardeners. JUSTIN RUSSELL argues that there are other virtues to look for in plants beyond the obvious.

Zucchini Frame Update

With wet and windy weather dominating, PHIL DUDMAN’s zucchini frame is proving it’s worth.

The Need for Speed

If you're not careful, the spring planting window can quickly come and go, leaving the vegie garden short on home grown food. Thank goodness for fast growing crops that produce a yield in a matter of weeks, not months, writes JUSTIN RUSSELL.

Experiments in Tomato Growing

Tomatoes are almost everyone's summer favourite, but they can be temperamental plants to grow. JUSTIN RUSSELL wonders whether gardeners over-cultivate tomatoes, and plans an experiment in leaving the plants to their own devices.

Organic Papaw Revival

Last winter was tough on papaws. PHIL DUDMAN shares his tips for getting your organic papaws back in shape.