ASK CRAIG QUESTIONS
Got a gardening question? Craig is here to help! Browse through common questions and expert answers to keep your garden thriving.
I'm preparing a new rose and flower garden in Gillitts, Durban. Do I need a soil test before planting, and is my soil preparation method the right approach?
Hi Peter,
That’s a good start!
For domestic gardens soil tests are an overkill (in over twenty years, we have only had two gardens where soil tests were done) and different parts of the garden could have quite different composition and you end up with paralysis from analysis. For agriculture, it would be far more important.
We would dig down to around 40cm to decompress the soil – you look like you are probably at around the right depth. You have also removed the existing soil, so you have far more control over the growing medium for your new plants.
Add a good potting soil or a 50/50 soil/compost mix for planting – sometimes referred to as ‘landscaper’s mix’. Add some bonemeal on planting. Once they have settled and showing some new growth, apply KynoGarden 2:3:2 (25) slow-release fertilizer.
Once established, you can start applying KynoShrub Flower & Fruit 3:1:5 (25)
Also… If you have clay soil, mix in river sand or fine gravel. If your soil is very sandy, add organic compost or peat moss to help retain water.
Kind regards,
Craig
Why does my lawn struggle to grow underneath large trees? Is the problem too much shade, tree roots competing for nutrients, or something other?
Why is one section of my lawn green while the area next to it remains bare? It gets plenty of sunlight.
How do I know whether the building soil is suitable for planting and what is the most affordable way to landscape a large empty space?
Hi James, landscaping is about covering ground with something more attractive than what is currently there. The cheapest way to cover ground is to use relatively low-cost elements such as gravel or lawn.
Building rubble should be removed as it will make digging the garden more difficult. Concrete should be removed as it will contaminate the soil resulting in sub-optimal plant and lawn growth.
Mix organic compost to the soil as well as fertilizer – your plants will thank you!
How can I create a practical garden in a small space where my dog also plays which is also neat looking for a small nail business run from home?
My builder want to bury the rubble in the garden, he says it will be good for drainage – I am concerned that he is just being lazy – what should I do?
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About The Friendly Plant
The Friendly Plant is one of South Africa’s leading landscaping and garden design companies, led by award-winning landscaper Craig de Necker. With over 20 years of experience, their team has designed and built beautiful gardens across South Africa and beyond, helping gardeners create outdoor spaces that are both practical and inspiring.
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The Power of Compost and Organic Matter
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