Vegetables
Cabbage, cauliflower and silverbeet stalks should be cleared from the ground once the plants have been harvested. Left in, they will deplete the soil and, more seriously, shelter insect pests such as grey aphids.
Spinach, lettuce and turnips can still be sown, the latter in a warm, sheltered place.
Onions need to be lifted soon. If the foliage is still growing, bend over the tops to hasten bulb maturity. If onions are already being used, dig those with thick, soft stems first, as they will not keep well.
Cabbage, cauliflower and leek crops need to be kept cultivated and weedfree. Control moth and caterpillar attacks with derris dust. A pesticide spray may be needed to combat grey aphid infestations.
Silverbeet grows well in cool conditions and in most areas a midMarch sowing still gives enough time for plants to become established before cold weather stops growth. Sow silverbeet seed 1cm deep in rows 50cm apart.
Water ground well if conditions are dry.
Being coastal in origin, silverbeet also responds to some salt in the soil. Place some seaweed 30cm below where the seeds are to be sown, cover with soil, then put in the seeds. This leafy vegetable also responds to a plentiful supply of organic material.