Gazebo Abutilons

Double pink Abutilon x hybridum

The Gazebo is our indoor/outdoor function area. It is used most often for wedding receptions. There are views onto gardens from all four sides. The garden on one of these sides is built inside the space and covered with a poly-carbonate roof. The feel of this garden bed is that of a conservatory although it is not enclosed entirely from the outside and has no temperature control. To achieve the conservatory feel we need plants that can withstand the cold winter temperatures in the mountains and then the sun that beats in on summer afternoons. Abutilons fill this criteria admirably. The only drawback with abutilons is their susceptibility to aphid and white fly. The insects have easy access to the garden and protection from wind and rain once established. We use a few methods to keep these critters under control. The abutilons are cut back during winter so there is less chance of overwintering insects and their size in summer is more manageable. We spray off the aphids with water and treat the sooty mould that is the aphid companion with a detergent spray and rinse. The white fly is treated periodically and alternately with Eco-oil and Eco-Neem.

Abutilon megapotamicum

With the exception of one, all of the Abutilons in the Gazebo bed are Abutilon x hybridum. This species name is given to abutilons of uncertain origin. They are cultigens not occurring in the wild. Abutilons are related to mallows and hibicus in the mallow family Malvaceae. The species abutilon we have is Abutilon megapotamicum. It has a striking flower but is weedy in the Sydney area.

More Autumn Colour

english beech and redstemmed maple

Nandina domestica

Gazebo garden

The autumn in the mountain villages has been spectacular this year. The leaves have lasted well on the trees because the weather has been calm and dry for the last few weeks. We have only had 12mm rain so far this month. The english beech leaves looks gold in front of the yellow leaves of the red-stemmed maple. The Nandina domestica berries have been brilliant in our Gazebo garden.

ready for spreading

spread

Topdressing the lawns is a challenge in a wedding garden. The bridal party does not want black topdressing ingredients caught up on their beautiful clothes. We waited until after the final ceremony before topdressing. The lawns ideally should be growing quickly so that they both grow through and respond to the layer of topdressing. Our lawns are still growing but slowly. A bit more rain to help incorporate the topdressing would be ideal. The topdressing is mixed at our suppliers and contains sand, compost and cow manure. It is brilliant stuff!