Should I plant seed direct in the garden or in seedraising trays?

GLENYS WOOLLARD

It depends on the season, your gardening personality and the particular seeds. Planting direct means less hassle and no hardening off or transplant shock, but the soil does need to be well hoed and weed free. Mark the rows and use wire covers to prevent cats and birds from disturbing the soil, plus you’ll probably need snail bait. Beans and peas are best direct sown, likewise plants with long tap roots — eg carrots, beetroot, radishes, coriander, parsley and oriental poppies.

How can I stop prickles in our lawn this summer?

Onehunga weed (soliva sessilis) is the usual suspect. Named after the Auckland locality where it was first spotted, this low-growing annual weed is found throughout the North Island and makes itself known when the plants go to seed in summer. They can be handweeded out, but chemicals are usually needed for control. Note that the sprays are best applied in September/october before the weed starts to flower — so you might still need jandals for the season to come.