Colourful Garden Shop Haul!

I have just visited the town Garden Centre, and thought I would share my floral haul with you all! 

Gerberas are the undisputed cheerleaders of the garden. Available in a kaleidoscopic array of neon pinks, fiery oranges, sunny yellows, and crisp whites, these daisy-like perennials are essential for anyone who wants their outdoor space to pop with intensity. 

For the longest vase life, pick gerberas just as the outer row of petals (ray florets) has fully opened, but before the centre disk begins to shed pollen. This ensures the stem remains sturdy and the colours stay saturated for up to two weeks on your kitchen table.

Contrasting the bold gerbera is the timeless elegance of the white scented Dianthus, often referred to as the "clove pink." While many modern hybrids have lost their fragrance, the white scented Dianthus remains a sensory powerhouse. Its fringed, snowy petals emit a deep, spicy aroma reminiscent of cloves and cinnamon, particularly in the warmth of the afternoon. These flowers are also excellent for picking; a small bunch in a bud vase can perfume an entire room.

If you are looking to add a touch of ethereal beauty to the shaded corners of your garden, look no further than Corydalis 'Porcelain Blue'. This remarkable perennial is a true standout, prized for its vibrant, electric-blue flowers that look almost too vivid to be real.

Unlike many other blue-flowered plants that lean toward purple or lilac, 'Porcelain Blue' delivers a pure, saturated sky-blue hue. The delicate, tubular blooms dangle in clusters above a mound of fine-textured, blue-green foliage that resembles lace. 

While many blue Corydalis varieties are notoriously finicky and prone to summer dormancy, 'Porcelain Blue' is bred for resilience. It boasts a longer blooming season and lacks the aggressive self-seeding tendencies of some of its cousins.

The perfume from the sky blue flowers is simply heavenly!

To help this beauty thrive, plant it in a spot with partial to full shade and rich, well-draining soil. It appreciates consistent moisture but dislikes "wet feet." Tuck it into a woodland garden, a shaded walkway, or a shady patio container.s

Gardening is, at its heart, a practice of mindfulness and a balm for the soul. In an increasingly digital world, the physical connection to the earth—the feeling of soil between your fingers and the rhythmic task of pruning and weeding provides a necessary grounding. When we cultivate a garden, we are not just growing flowers; we are cultivating a sense of peace. 

Find out more about Horticulture Therapy here.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#gerberas #dianthus #Corydalis #floweringgardenplants

Easy Book Page Leaf Print Artwork

  

 Transform a plain wooden art board into a funky botanical art piece with this quick and easy leaf-print project by layering a vintage music sheet with a bold black botanical print.

A fabulous DIY for yourself, as a gift, or a school holiday project.

Materials Needed

· Wood block canvas: A thick wooden panel or cradled wood board works best.

I have used a Dollar Store artwork. Size 10 x 10 inches (25 x 25cm)

· One old music sheet: Use pages from an antique hymnal or aged sheet music (if you don’t have originals, you can print sheet music onto beige paper).

· Mod Podge in Matte: For adhering the paper.

· Black acrylic paint: A heavy-body paint provides the best coverage.

· A Fresh leaf: Look for solid leaves with prominent veins (like maple, oak, or ivy) or interesting shapes or edges, such as fern or a small palm leaf, as I have chosen.

Step 1: Prepare the Musical Base

For a  sheet look, place the wood block on the music sheet, and use a pencil to draw around the outline, then cut it out. Or you can cut shapes from the sheets or tear the edges to create a collage.  Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the surface of the wood block, then press the whole music sheet firmly onto it. Or individually glue each collage piece to the wood. Smooth out any air bubbles with your fingers or a brayer. Let the glue dry completely. 

Step 2: Prepare the Leaf for Printing

Select a fresh leaf that is still pliable. Using a paintbrush, apply a thin, even layer of black acrylic paint to the underside of the leaf. This is where the veins are most prominent, which results in a more detailed print. For less detail, paint the top side of the leaf. Be careful not to use too much paint, as it can fill in the delicate details of the leaf’s texture.

You can do a test run on plain paper using a duplicate leaf to work out paint consistency.

Step 3: The Printing Process

Carefully place the painted leaf face-down onto your music-covered wood block. Place a piece of paper over the leaf to protect your hands, and press down firmly across the entire surface of the leaf. Press gently to ensure every part of the leaf makes contact with the canvas.

Remove the protective paper. Then slowly peel the leaf back from one corner to reveal the black silhouette against the backdrop of the musical notes. 

Use a thin paintbrush to correct any lines that haven't transferred from the leaf.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Allow the paint to dry for at least 30 minutes. Once dry, you can apply a final topcoat of matte sealer to protect the artwork. The thick wood block base allows this piece to stand independently on a shelf or be hung on the wall in a botanical gallery display.

This project is a perfect afternoon activity for anyone looking to add a touch of "botanical" to their home. In just a few easy steps, you’ve turned simple materials into something that celebrates both nature, music and art.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE

#diyhomedecor #homemadegiftideas #easydiyart  #kidsart

Dahlia Mystic Enchantment

Are you a member of the Dahlia Fan Club?

I certainly am!

I remember the first time I met a dahlia; it was love at first sight.

I was seven years old, and it was a destined meeting in my grandma's cottage garden.

In 'Mia Bella Passions' Homestead garden of the past,

there were many.

Collected from school fetes, garden centres and market days.

When I moved to the Lake and life became more transient due to art and painting work, I thought, 'No, I'm not creating big gardens'!

But guess what happened?

Once gardening is in your blood, there is no stopping it!

I bought three favourite Dahlias with me when I moved, and each Spring, a few more are added to the collection.

Today I'm sharing the newest one.

The 'Dahlia Mystic' series is a contemporary dahlia colour range that was created by Dr Keith Hammet, a leading New Zealand plant breeder.

'Dahlia Mystic' Enchantment is bright engine red, single-petaled, yellow-stamened, with the most amazing black mahogany-toned filigree leaves.

I've potted mine because it looks fabulous in the black fleck pot, but it is just as happy in front of a garden border.

Plant it en masse, and you have an instant statement in your garden bed design.

Eventually, it will grow about 60cm wide and 80cm tall, so they don't require staking like much larger dahlia varieties do.

This strong, hardy plant loves a sunny position; just keep your plant well watered. 

They will die back in winter, hardy to -6 degrees Celsius, and then will re-emerge in Spring to put on a show with a brilliant mass of saturated red flowers throughout the warmer months.

Deadheading once the prime show of blooms is finished will promote more flowers.

Consistent fertilising will also promote more flowers.

It is disease-resistant but will need snail and slug control as it's like a delicious dessert for those slimy critters.

And last but not least, the cut flowers are long-lasting in a vase.

The dried base of the flower is really kind of cool, don't you think? So if you also enjoy dried flowers, these are a keeper for crafts.

Once your flowers are finished in the vase, hang the stems to dry.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#dahlia #dahliamystic #dahliamysticeenchantment

Delicious Spicy Mango Chutney

   Homemade spicy mango chutney is more than just a condiment; it is an explosion of flavour that balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes in a single spoonful. Unlike mass-produced store-bought versions, crafting this at home allows you to control the texture: keeping chunky fruit more intact and achieving a heat level that suits your palate.

To create a chutney with depth, the base begins with firm but ripe mangoes, which provide natural sugars and a buttery texture. The complexity is built through a slow reduction with apple cider vinegar, providing the necessary acidity to cut through the sweetness.

The "spice" in a truly great spicy mango chutney usually comes from a layered approach:

· Heat: Red chilli provides the kick.

· Aromatics: Ginger and minced garlic add a pungent, zesty undertone.

· Warmth: A blend of cumin and turmeric creates the signature golden hue.

By simmering these ingredients until the juices thicken into a syrupy, jam-like consistency, you develop a condiment that is both rustic and refined.

Versatile Pairings: 

Spicy mango chutney is the traditional companion to Indian appetisers like samosas and poppadoms, but its versatility extends far into global cuisine. Here are other ways to utilise this delicious condiment:

1. The Ultimate Cheese Board Addition

Move over fig jam. The acidity and heat of mango chutney are the perfect foil for rich, creamy cheeses. It pairs exceptionally well with a sharp aged cheddar, a pungent Brie, or even a salty goat cheese. Spread it onto a cracker with a slice of mango for a sophisticated snack.

2. Glaze

The high sugar content in chutney makes it an ideal glaze. Brush it onto grilled chicken thighs, roasted pork tenderloin, or even salmon fillets during the last ten minutes of cooking. The chutney caramelizes under the heat, creating a sticky, spicy crust.

3. Sandwiches and Wraps

Spicy mango chutney can transform a standard sandwich into a gourmet meal. It also wonders spread inside a grilled cheese sandwich, a turkey wrap, or a halloumi burger. 

4. Accompaniment to Curries and Rice

Naturally, a dollop of chutney on the side of a fragrant Biryani or a spicy Madras curry provides a cooling, sweet contrast to the intense spices of the main dish. It acts as a palate cleanser, making every bite feel fresh.

5. Dressing and Dipping

Whisk a tablespoon of chutney with olive oil and lime juice to create a tropical vinaigrette for a shrimp salad. Alternatively, thin it with boiled water and use it as a dipping sauce for shrimp, chicken or fish bites, spring rolls, or sweet potato fries.

Storage and Maturation

One of the best features of homemade chutney is its shelf life. When stored in well-sterilised jars, the flavours continue to meld and develop over time. A batch made today will often taste even better two weeks from now, making it an excellent handmade gift for food lovers or a reliable staple to keep in your own pantry for whenever a meal needs a burst of sunshine, spice and heat. 

SPICY MANGO CHUTNEY RECIPE

Ingredients:

2 cups of ripe mango - diced

1/2 large red onion - finely chopped

1 Tablespoon olive oil

1 clove garlic - finely chopped or 1 teaspoon minced jar garlic

1 tablespoon fresh grated or powdered ginger

2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 Tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon each of cumin and turmeric powders

1/2 teaspoon red chilli sauce or powder

Method:

In a saucepan, add the oil and fry the onion, ginger and garlic until soft and fragrant.

Add the mango, spices and vinegar.

Bring to a boil while stirring.

Reduce heat to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Using a potato masher tool or a fork, break up the mango chunks a little.

You should now have a jam-like consistency.

Place in sterilised jars.

Makes about 1 and 3/4 cups of chutney.

You will find a printable recipe HERE.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#chutneyrecipes #mangorecipes #homemadepreserves

Upcycled Wall Sconce And Rake Head Bird Feeding Station

 Many moons ago at my old abode, I created a bird feeder from an old rake head.

It was a huge success with my feathered friends!

(You'll find the original post HERE)

Attached to the top of a fence, loaded with fruit, the birds loved it.

As did the butterflies.

Since then, I've shifted to the Lake, so I found another old rake head, as my new home is teeming with birds that love to eat fruit and nectar.

 But this time I've set up the bird feeder with a few modifications.

And some fun rusty tin bird accessories.

Firstly, I dug a hole and placed a tall half-round post into it.

On top of that, the rake head that holds the fruit was attached with large-size nail staples.

I painted the post in Resene 'Scoria' paint. 

In my stash, I had an old brass wall sconce.

It's not a French antique, but a Flemish Baroque Revival replica light that was popular in New Zealand and Australia in the 1970s.

I removed the old wiring, the fake candle drip holder and the screws holding the brass flower base.

Then I used a super strong glue that bonds metal to metal, and reattached the flower.

I left it overnight to dry.

 I glued small ceramic pots onto the brass flowers using the strong glue. Next, I screwed the wall sconce to the post.

The ceramic pots are full of sugar water.

My mixture is 1/2 cup sugar to 4 cups of warm water.

(Stir until sugar is dissolved).

Oranges cut in half were added to the rake spikes.

The birds also enjoy pears, apples, persimmons, kiwifruit, and mandarins too!

These sweet, rusty tin birds are from the Temu online store.

I placed two more short pieces of wood (painted in Resene Scoria) to make a shelf for a potted plant, a bee water station and the ornamental birds.

It was only a matter of minutes before my first feathered visitor arrived!

The next day he brought back lots of friends.

WATCH THE VIDEO OF THE BIRDS FEEDING HERE

 These beautiful birds are Silver Eye, also known as a 'Wax Eye'. They are native to the South West Pacific and were introduced to New Zealand in the 1800s.

You might also enjoy creating an easy-to-make 'Bee Water Station'.

You'll find the instructions HERE.

Or the 'Orange Peanut Butter Bird food ' HERE.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#diybirdfeeders #birdfeederideas 

Two 'Unusual Ferns' For Your Plant Collection!

Asplenium Ferns:

Asplenium ferns are primarily native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa. In their natural habitat, they are often epiphytic, meaning they grow on tree branches or in rock crevices rather than in the soil. The "Cobra" and "Chrissie" varieties are 'cultivated' selections of this fern bred specifically to enhance its unique structural form, making it a living piece of art for modern interiors.

   The Asplenium Cobra and Asplenium Chrissie are striking cultivars of the Bird’s Nest Fern. They have become a favourite among indoor plant enthusiasts for their architectural flair and prehistoric aesthetic. 

The Cobra is defined by its stiff, upright growth and distinctive "cobra-head" cresting at the tips of its green leaves.

While Chrissie develops with age, displaying tassled tips at the end of the leaves.

  Origins and Background

Uncultivated Asplenium ferns are primarily native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa. In their natural habitat, they can be epiphytic, meaning they grow on tree branches or in rock crevices rather than in the soil. They grow in dappled light under jungle canopies.

Growth Habit and Size

The Asplenium Cobra is a slow to moderate grower. While it retains a compact footprint compared to large outdoor ferns, it can eventually reach a height and spread of about 12-24 inches (30–60 cm). Asplenium Chrissie grows 40 to 60 cm. They both have growth that radiates from a central "nest" like fuzzy rosette from which new fronds emerge. Direct afternoon sun will scorch the leaves, while too little light will cause the plant to lose its vibrant green lustre and tight, upright structure.

The Asplenium 'Chrissie' fern is often confused with Microsorum Green Flame. The leaves are the same, but the difference is that 'Chrissie grows from a rosette, whereas 'Green Flame' grows from runners.

Watering: These ferns enjoy consistent moisture but dislike "wet feet." Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage. During the winter months, when the plant’s growth slows, you can allow the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings. It is important never to water directly into this centre, as it is highly susceptible to rot.

Humidity and Temperature: Coming from the tropics, they thrive in high humidity. It is an ideal candidate for a well-lit bathroom or a kitchen. If your home is dry, consider using a pebble tray or a humidifier. It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C–27°C) and should be kept away from cold drafts and heating vents.

Soil and Fertilisation: Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter; a mix designed for orchids or ferns with added peat moss works well. Feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser once a month during the spring and summer growing season.

The Asplenium 'Chrissie' fern is often confused with Microsorum Green Flame. The leaves are the same, but the difference is that 'Chrissie grows from a rosette, whereas 'Green Flame' grows from runners.

 Air Purifier: Like many members of the Asplenium family, it is an excellent natural air filter that assists clearing common household toxins from your environment.

Why Grow Them?

The Asplenium Cobra and Asplenium Chrissie are both non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet owners. The glossy, leather-like fronds are more resilient than the delicate foliage of Maidenhair ferns, offering a hardy yet exotic option for those looking to add a touch of the jungle to their home.

Or if you live in a subtropical or tropical environment, they can be grown in the garden under a canopy that provides dappled light.

Or join via email updates for the latest blog posts HERE.

#interestingferns #aspleniumferns #junglepotplants