newspaper mulch + Aquapore
- To: m*@ucdavis.edu
- Subject: newspaper mulch + Aquapore
- From: L* R*
- Date: Mon, 24 Jan 2000 23:36:51 +1000
Have tried this on the roses - about 2cm newspaper, covered
with 12cm grass clippings. I first watered the area thoroughly
and then watered the mulch. Next weekend I want to try it on
the areas infested with tradescantia and vinca. Irrigation
systems can lull one into a false sense of security -
I thought I had a die-back problem with a rugosa rose
(Blanc double de Coubert) which according to my reference
books would be unusual. Sure enough on investigation I found
it wasn't getting any water. I now need to rejig the whole
system as the original 'sprayers' are mostly too small for the plants.
On the subject of irrigation systems does anyone have
experience of Aquapore? I saw it in a garden centre
yesterday and it looks like a good idea, eg no blocking
of nozzles, more efficient water distribution, especially
if you lay it under the mulch.
Also I'd like to ask about wasps. We have the dreadful
pest European wasp, however I have in my garden several
nests of a native wasp (Polistes humilis). Information on
its habits is sparse, however I have ascertained that it
eats the caterpillars of nuisances like the cabbage white.
It seems to have multiplied in my garden since I have
eschewed the use of pesticides and I've seen it busily
patrolling the beds of perennials, I HOPE in search of
weevils, caterpillars etc. It has a fairly vicious sting,
but not lingering like a bee sting. Surprising at the
time but it doesn't last. Also I only got stung because
I went too close to the nest which is on my washing line.
They are not at all aggressive. I'd be interested to
know if anyone else has experience of native wasps helping
to reduce destructive insects.
Liz
Liz Runciman
3a The Crescent
Marryatville SA 5068
Australia tel: 61 8 8332 9035
fax 61 8 8331 9041
