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GARDENING BY THE MARAMATAKA

WORDS DR NICK ROSKRUGE

This is the season heading to midsummer, and we work through a period known as matiti muramura when our red native trees flower, which pre-empts key fishing and planting conditions. Here the summer wife, Hine-Raumati, commands Rehua, the star Antares, and he becomes apparent through the midsummer haze, which pre-empts the drying up of soil and vegetation. This is the most crucial period for understanding plant needs to survive drought and drying winds. Near the end of the month, you will notice early red berries such as porokaiwhiri (pigeonwood) or taupata (cosprosma) are ready and birds will be the first to find them. Red and blackcurrants in the garden will be ready at the same time. The full moon is on the 8th and whiro or the new moon is on the 23rd. So the period before Christmas, from midday on the 14th to the 20th, suits garden activities of all sorts. Ensure the last of your new plants are planted over this period. Then put your feet up for Christmas.

Mahi Māra / Gardening

en-nz

2022-12-03T08:00:00.0000000Z

2022-12-03T08:00:00.0000000Z

https://fairfaxmedia.pressreader.com/article/283064123371376

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