If you’ve ever stared at a patchy lawn or a bare citrus tree, wondering what went wrong, you’re not alone. Garden fertiliser problems are among the most common frustrations for home gardeners, and the solution is often simpler than you’d expect. We think of our cities and towns as hustle, bustle and muscle. But underneath them is a more vigorous world. It’s been estimated that soil contains about three-fifths of all species on the planet, including insects, worms, bacteria, fungi and viruses.
In short, soil is teeming with life, most of which is beneficial, turning over the soil and creating tiny tunnels through which air and water flow. Together, this underworld is weaving together an environment that supports everything we love in our garden: food to harvest, flowers to enjoy, and plants that make our outdoor spaces energising.
BHG presenter Charlie Albone is an ambassador for RichGro. “I use Black Marvel Fruit & Citrus on all my citrus. It’s the only thing that can keep up with them,” he says.
Unlike the northern hemisphere, Australia didn’t experience the severe effects of the Ice Age, so our soils didn’t go through the glacial scraping that dug up the minerals that contribute to soil’s vitality. That’s why we need quality supplements to help our gardens out.
The trick is to use the right product for the job, because not every plant has the same needs. Here are five common challenges in Aussie gardens, and how to tackle them.
Problem 1: Why won’t my citrus tree produce fruit?
Citrus trees are busy plants, growing leaves, fragrant flowers and, of course, fruit. They need a constant supply of quality nutrients to support all this growth.
Richgro’s Black Marvel Premium Fruit & Citrus Food has 12 parts of nitrogen, one part of phosphorous and eight parts of potassium. The high ratio of nitrogen helps the trees grow strong and produce healthy green foliage. The high potash level ensures plenty of juicy fruit. Iron is included, too, important for strengthening the trees’ immune systems and resistance to pests.
Feed your citrus tree every eight weeks during the active growing season and, when the tree begins to set fruit, supplement with the liquid version: Black Marvel Fruit & Citrus Liquid Food.
(Credit: Adobe Stock)
Problem 2: Why is my lawn turning yellow?
When your soil becomes acidic, which can occur with the build-up of organic matter or the use of certain fertilisers, it can prevent roots from taking up essential nutrients. This in turn affects your lawn’s health.
Using some Richgro Dolomite Lime can help. Dolomite lime is different from agricultural lime, which has calcium and a little magnesium. Dolomite lime has both calcium and magnesium, and both do two jobs at once.
The calcium in Richgro’s Dolomite Lime reduces your soil’s acidity. The magnesium in it is the key to photosynthesis and gives leaves their green colour.
(Photography: Sue Ferris)
Problem 3: How do I get more roses on my rose bush?
If your rose bush looks healthy but doesn’t flower the way it should, feeding is often the missing piece. Richgro’s Black Marvel Rose & Flower Food has 12 parts of nitrogen, two parts of phosphorous and 10 parts of potassium, so it’s high in potash for a boost of colourful and healthy blooms.
It also contains iron for deep green leaves, strong roots and healthy growth. Apply 2-3 weeks after pruning and then 4-8 weeks until the start of winter. Water in well after application.
(Credit: Adobe Stock)
Problem 4: Why is my vegie garden struggling?
If your vegie patch looks tired, start with the soil. Compost doesn’t just add organic goodness; it helps improve the way your soil behaves.
Richgro Black Marvel Garden Compost can improve a soil’s structure – helping sandy soils to hold moisture for longer, and heavy soils to drain more freely – supporting stronger root growth and better plant performance.
(Photography: Brent Wilson)
Problem 5: How do I revive my wilting potted plants?
Pots dry out faster than garden beds, and once a potting mix dries out completely, it can become hard to re-wet evenly. That’s why the right potting mix matters.
Richgro Black Marvel Potting Mix ensures the right blend of ingredients is available to your plants. It’s high in iron and potash.
It also comes with six months’ worth of controlled-release fertiliser for an extra boost and a soil wetter to ensure that water reaches the roots effectively.
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Garden editor & horticulturist
Jenny Dillon
Garden editor
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