Jap pumpkin

Maree Allen wrote to say that she has recently grown a Japanese (Jap) pumpkin weighing 17 kilos, and she wonders if this is an extra large specimen. Don asked anyone who has grown a bigger Jap pumpkin to let us know. For the time being, Maree holds the unofficial record at 17 kilos. Well done Maree.

Roundup Biactive

Ross Payne, from Korumburra in Victoria, wrote to say that he's often heard Don mention the use of Roundup for the eradication of weeds. Ross pointed out that there is another product called Roundup Biactive, which is frog friendly and can be used around waterways and creeks. We have mentioned this product on Burke's Backyard before, although not often because when it first came out it was only available in very large containers. It is now available in 5L containers, costing from $60-$100. If you have a big job and you're worried about your frogs and tadpoles, Don strongly recommends that you use Roundup Biactive herbicide.

Horse manure

Don received an email from Peter Rattigan, of Mandurah in Western Australia. Peter has two horses and would like to make use of the manure in his sandy soil. However, various people have told him that horse manure is of little value, or actually harmful to use in soils.

Don said that horse manure is one of the best soil conditioners in the world. In fact, if you want to condition a sandy soil you can't go past horse manure or stable manure (a mixture of horse manure and shavings or straw). It is also very good for your compost heap.

Letter of the Week

Ross Payne wins our Letter of the Week award for reminding everyone to use Roundup Biactive for weed control in aquatic and sensitive environmental areas. Congratulations Ross, your prize is a year's free subscription to the Burke's Backyard magazine.

Copyright CTC Productions 2004