Summer Gardening

We are truly in the midst of another Australian summer. It can be hard to beat the heat at home and in the garden, so we've compiled some things you can do to ensure that you and your garden keep cool as the temperature rises.

• We're not the only ones that feel the heat. Ensure plants have enough water by adequate watering, watering plants directly to the ground than on the leaves, mulching well, and avoid watering at the hottest parts of the day. Simple shade covers can also help stave off the heat - see Sustainable Gardening Australia for tips on which shadecloths to use for which plants.

• Like dry heat, humidity and rapid changes in temperature can also affect plants in the form of powdery mildew. This can be partially treated by using a milk spray. Check out a recipe by Gardening Australia here and some more tips from SGA.

• Summer is also the season for snakes. If you have a bush garden or some chooks, make sure you keep grasses low and the garden maintained.

• We hope the bounty of tomatoes and zuchinnis are beginning. Seeds to plant this month include beetroot, peas, potatoes, corn, spinach, radish and cauliflower. Tomato seedlings can still be transplanted, as well as basil, cos lettuce, silver beet, spring onions and cucumber.

• And as always, be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen, drink plenty of water and take regular breaks when out in the garden.

Beetroot leaves can be eaten as well as the roots. Beetroot seeds can be planted this month.