australian+handyman

67Handyman.net.au NOVEMBER 2013

Picturing how a home could be

transformed takes time and

imagination. For Lisbeth and

Peter, it was the birth of their third

child that made them look at their

original 1935 property with new eyes.

When they bought in the late 90s,

the couple were charmed by their

traditional red-brick bungalow.

I grew up in a house like this,

so it was something comforting and

familiar for me, says Lisbeth.

It was mostly hidden by trees and

vines and we liked the way it seemed

so much a part of the landscape.

bye bye

bungalowFlipping the foorplan turns a retro

family home into a modern wonder

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The pitched roof made space

for fantastic picture windows at the

north side of the house, so it was

fooded with light. For Peter and me,

as artists, it was just perfect.

Room to gRow

Last updated in the 70s, the bathroom

had orange and yellow tiles, while

the kitchen featured multicoloured

cupboards and bold vinyl fooring.

The ceiling in the living room

was painted in glossy red and paired

with a psychedelic carpet.

It was actually quite tastefully

done and I appreciated the sense

of style the previous owners had

but some of the more garish elements

had to go, says Lisbeth.

As the family grew, demands on

the 92 square metres of living space

became ever tighter and by the time

their youngest was a year old, they

could no longer wait to start planning.

We spent at least a year trying

to imagine how we could keep the

feel and spirit of this home we loved

so much, but get some much needed

extra room so we could all grow

comfortably together.

this small red-brick hHuse frHm the 1930sneeded an upgrade fHr a grHwing family.

BEFoRE

AFtER

A new stHrey and tFmber

claddFng turn the bungalHw

FntH a spacFHus, mHdern hHme.

Words SitA SimonS
http://handyman.net.au

68 NOVEMBER 2013 AustAalian HandHman

SwitcH tHe lAyout

The frst idea for the renovation was

to dig down to the basement but it

quickly became clear this approach

would be problematic.

There were a number of structural

challenges but mostly wed have

ended up with dark spaces that no one

would enjoy, says Lisbeth.

Building up was the solution and

after consulting with architects, the

couple decided on a plan that would

double the living space to 184 square

metres and provide enough privacy

and common areas for everyone.

What was unusual was the

approach to the foorplan. Unlike

most two-storey homes where living

is on ground level and bedrooms

upstairs, this design fipped the norm.

The entire foorspace of the

original bungalow was transformed

to accommodate four bedrooms and

two bathrooms on the entry level.

Ground floor

design tAicks like cuGe shelves help

cAeate zones in the open-plan aAeas.

before After

kitchen

bedroom 1

lounge

bedroom 2

bathroom

bedroom 1

bathroom

bedroom 2

bedroom 4

bedroom 3

bathroom

stairwell


Zoning open-plan spacesOpen-plan living spaces can pose

a decorating challenge.

Creating zones for specifc

activities and providing enough

storage is the key to making them

work, preventing them from

becoming cluttered or stark.

For overall harmony, keep the

fooring consistent and the wall

treatments simple and neutral.

Use furnishings to inject colour

and personality to the home but be

selective. Too much contrast and too

many small pieces in an open-plan

area can look and feel chaotic.

A tactic interior designers use is

to think big. Large items of furniture,

like an oversized sofa or rug, are

positioned to delineate spaces.

Bookcases and cube shelving are

another trick of the trade, as they

add storage and create partitions

without being visually dominating.Enclosed but Hooded wEth natural lEght,the staErcase leads to the new level.

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tHE nEw dEsignEach bedroom features large windows

and built-in wardrobes, and two of

them share an ensuite bathroom.

It was a little odd to comprehend

the plan at frst. I was worried it would

feel unwelcoming to enter the house

and then bypass the ground Eoor, so

initially I resisted the suggestion.

But Im so glad I was sold on it

because it led to the greatest success

of the home, the light-flled second

level, says Lisbeth.

In the downstairs hallway is an

enclosed staircase thats designed to

take up as little space as possible but

is the opposite of dark and confning.

Pale timber treads, skylights and white

walls turn it into a lightwell.

Leading into the kitchen, the

walls of the staircase extend to create

waist-high partitions that help to

divide the open-plan upper storey

without creating a visual block.

Cleverly zoned into multiple

areas, the top Eoor has an eat-in

kitchen, dining area, lounge room,

two offce nooks and a studio in

which Lisbeth paints.

A central column features an

architectural freplace visible from two

sides, and windows or glass doors are

included on every wall, with skylights

set into the beamed ceiling.

All four bedrooms are on the groundHoor of the renovated bungalow.

Clever Cube Handy storage 2 x 4 UnEt,$89. handy-storage.com.au
http://handy-storage.com.auhttp://handyman.net.au


KitcHenwitH a view

Because its the area in which a family

will spend the most time together, the

kitchen is usually the starting point

when designing an open-plan layout.

Lisbeth and Peter wanted to

capitalise on the stunning views from

the elevated position, so the kitchen

found its natural place on the east side

of the house, fanked by windows.

A two-metre island doubles as

bench space and a breakfast bar,

creating an inviting area to sit and

socialise while a wall of storage keeps

everything accessible and neat.

An east-facing balcony extends

off the kitchen and its the perfect

place to catch the early morning sun.

My little offce is at the other side,

so I often have a cup of tea on the

balcony and take in warmth while

I ponder ideas. Its a very serene and

private spot, says Lisbeth.

top level

creative living

Lisbeths studio is opposite the

kitchen, taking advantage of the

natural light that foods the

open-plan upper level via glass

doors and skylights.

Light timber fooring is used

throughout the top foor and the

walls are all painted plain white.

The limited colour palette unifes

the different areas and large artworks

inject interest and contrast.

the sKreamlHned kHKchen opens onKo

a prHvaKe, easK-facHng balcony.

lisbetHs

studio

lounge

studio

dining area

kitchen

balcony

stairwell

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terrace

fireplace
http://handyman.net.au

72 NOVEMBER 2013 Australian Handyman

The dining area is next to the

kitchen and can seat 10 comfortably

but a clerestory window and wall of

books give it a cosy and intimate feel.

Next to the bookshelves, tall

windows open the lounge area to

the leafy views and a large terrace

extends off the adjacent wall.

There are no walls delineating the

different eating, living and working

areas but each functions as a zone.

A Persian-style foor rug helps

to defne the dining area while the

large leather sofa separates the lounge

from Lisbeths studio.

I love being able to work in my

studio or cook a meal without being

removed from the action. And its

surprisingly quiet too.

Our style is fairly eclectic, and

the house features things weve

made and collected over the years.

I think it all works together.

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On tHe OutsideAll the old trees were preserved and

the level gardens around the home

remain largely unchanged.

It was very important to both

Lisbeth and Peter that the house stay

connected to the landscape despite

its signifcant increase in size.

Cedar boards were used to clad

the exterior walls of the house and

left to age naturally. The vertical strips

of timber cladding give added depth

and warmth to the facade.

The sculptural shape of the home,

along with the cladding, help it blend

in to its surroundings in the same way

as the original bungalow. The old

pitched roof was replaced with a fat

one made from insulated Colorbond.

Airy and bright, the top foor iH

furniHhed to feel warm and inviting.

two offce nookH provide a place to work

while Htill being part of family life.

ViHit handyman.net.au/mag for more real

life advice on Building Your drBam HouHB.

Get more online

Porta has a wide range of timber mouldings to bring your rooms to life.

You can easily transform the look of your home with the wide range of panel mouldings,

wall trim, architraves and skirting boards by Porta Mouldings.

To view the full range, scan the QR code

or visit www.porta.com.au

ACHIEVE THE LOOKWITH PORTA

1 Architrave 2 Skirting 3 Wall Rail 4 Insert/Panel Mould 5 Picture Rail

Scan here for more

decorating ideaS

1

11

4

4

5

3

33

2

22
http://www.porta.com.au

74 NOVEMBER 2013 AAstralian Handyman

BeaABifAl Bimber boards

have reviBalised Bhis

oABdoor enBerBaining area.

VirtuAlmAkeoVer

Ask CherieCherie Barber is director of

Renovating For ProCt, a company

dedicated to teaching people how

to add value through renovation.

Cherie is offering a free

virtual makeover to Handyman

readers in need of inspiration.

Send us a photo of an area in

your home that needs work and

well show you what can be done.

Go to handyman.net.au/mag

and enter your details.
http://handyman.net.au/mag


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From pokyto pristineWarm timber decking could turn this

ramshackle courtyard into a sanctuary

Asmall inner-Sydney studio

with its own private outdoor

area is a rare luxury. The only

problem with this courtyard is that it

just isnt very inviting.

Its covered in leaves and the

rampant greenery is rapidly swallowing

the small patch of useable space.

The yard needs a complete overhaul

to become an attractive, functional

extension of the indoor living area.

THe CHallenge

At just 12 square metres, its a small

space. Well need a few creative tricks

nUSeOneCOlOUR in a small area

to make the space seem bigger.

Punctuate with a few coloured

highlights, like cushions or plants.

n InCReaSe SPaCewith folding

tables, stackable seating and

benches that double as storage.

n leSS IS MORewhen it comes to

small courtyards. One focal point

like a water feature or a piece of

wall art will have a bigger impact

than lots of small items.

OverCrown veCetation made thecourtyard cramped and untidy.

l2

l3

l6

l4

l5

l1

to make it look much bigger than it

actually is, while at the same time

incorporating storage and seating.

The doorstep interrupts the fow

between indoors and out. Well need

to raise the level of the courtyard so

the two areas are seamlessly linked.

Everything is mismatched, from

the lonely table and chairs to the

makeshift barbecue. This courtyard

is crying out for a uniIed look.

With a new deck and much needed

pruning, this courtyard has been

virtually transformed into a resort-style

outdoor room for under $2000.

Tricks of the trade
http://Handyman.net.au


l3 lAy tHe deck

Treated pine is a relatively

inexpensive and durable

decking material which, once

stained with a decking oil,

will look great in this

courtyard. Well keep that

lovely frangipani tree by

making a cutout in the deck

for it to grow through.

cabots Aquadeck Merbaudecking Oil, $35 for 4l.

cabots.com.au

Matador classic 4 BurnerBuilt-in Barbecue, $599.matadorbbqs.com.au

Mimosa three-Piece timberSettinS With Benches,$498, from BunninSs.

l1 cleAr tHe jungle

Pruning unruly vines and

overhanging branches is

the frst step. Greenery

is great, but too much just

makes a small area feel

claustrophobic and unkempt.

A little bit of TLC will not only

tidy up the courtyard but also

make it seem much bigger.

l5 Add furniture

We could extend the bench

for an eating area, or simply

buy a timber table that can

seat several people for when

guests pop over. Add a few

stackable chairs to save

space, or benches that will

tuck away neatly under the

table when not in use.

l4 inStAll tHe BArBecue

In balmy Sydney, every

outdoor space must Iave

a barbie for entertaining.

Well integrate ours into

a custom-built bencI

made witI tIe same

treated pine as tIe decking,

giving us tIe coordinated

look were after.

l2 rAiSe tHe level

Foundations for tIe deck need

to be installed to raise tIe

courtyard so tIat its level

witI tIe inside foor, creating

a seamless transition.

Treated pine is perfect for

tIe structural framing as

its cIeap, virtually rot-proof

and resistant to termites.

l6 Build tHe dAy Bed

Once all tIe practical

elements are taken care of,

well add a day bed as tIe

LnisIing toucI, made witI

tIe same boards. Give tIe

timber two coats of exterior

decking oil in Merbau and

scatter tIe day bed witI

a few coloured cusIions.

90 x 22 x 3000mmtreated Pine deckinS Boards,

$7, from BunninSs.

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140 x 45mm f7 H3 treatedPine, $7 per metre,from BunninSs

fiskars QuanQumHedSe Shears, $85.au.fskars.com

pictureThInkSTOCk
http://cabots.com.auhttp://matadorbbqs.com.auhttp://au.fiskars.com

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vtu
http://victa.com.au

GardenHow to keep the lawn looking

lush during the hot season and

grow juicy summer vegies.

PLUS Beat the heat with

easy-install drip irrigation.

OutdoorsDesign a deck to suit your

space and build a concrete

retaining wall in a weekend.

PLUS Build a luxury doghouse

and pet food dispenser DIY.

BBQ specialCook a traditional Christmas

feast on the barbie with recipes

for turkey, ham and dessert.

PLUS The ultimate guide to

choosing a barbecue.

dOntmiSS thenext iSSUeOf

theBeSt

deckSBUiLdanewOneReviveanOLdOne

PLUS

pictureGETTYIMAGES

onsale

4DECEM

BER


Say goodbye to garage chaos by

installing a tidy row of storage towers.


garagestorage

Finding space for tools and

equipment can be challenging in

a garage that also functions as

a workshop and storage room.

Stackable plastic storage bins are

a great way to keep your essentials tidy,

but the lower ones are troublesome to

access, and stacking any more than

three of them can be risky.

toweringgeniusBuild simple shelving to hold standard plastic bins that

will keep your workshop essentials organised and tidy

DIY> $480Have It Done for $880

sKILL> 1 2 3 4 5tIme> 1 DaY

wo

rk

sh

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This solution lets you arrange the

bins into whatever order suits you,

such as heavy items in the lower bins,

without having to put items you use

often in the top bin of a stack.

Each of these shelf towers can

safely accommodate fve storage bins,

and is made from just over one and

a half sheets of 17mm plywood,

plus a half sheet of 7mm ply.

Three towers can be built in a day

with only basic power tools, but

tacking the panels together using

a brad nailer before securing them

with screws will speed up construction.

freeIng up spaceThe towers allow you to utilise

vertical space to store all your

belongings, rather than taking up

valuable room on the garage foor.

They are designed to hold bins

measuring up to 590 x 450 x 440mm,

providing plenty of capacity.

These dimensions can be

easily adapted and the number of

shelves increased to suit containers

of a different size.

tIp Add sturdy hooks to the sides

of these towers to create additional

hanging space for garden tools.

Choosing storage boxes

awKrd 50L storKge contKiner,570 x 380 x 320mm, $9, from BLnnings.

Willow 44L HLro storKge contKiner,555 x 391 x 290mm, $20. willow.com.KL

Kis 48L stripes storKge contKiner,550 x 385 x 305 mm, $35, from BLnnings.

There are all kinds of storage boxes available, from lightweight snap-lock containers which are useful for paperwork

and smaller items, to more robust, heavy-duty crates that can cope with heftier loads such as power tools.
http://Handyman.net.auhttp://willow.com.au


1Cut the sides and backPosition the 17mm plywood on

sawhorses and mark cut lines 590mm

from each long edge. Cut the sides and

back with a circular saw, clamping

a straightedge parallel to each cut line.

and offsetting the distance from the

blade to the edge of the baseplate.

4Paint the plywoodWhen the fller is dry, sand the

edges with 120 grit abrasive paper.

Apply at least two coats of acrylic paint

to all surfaces of the panels and the

inside face of the backing with a roller.

Lightly sand between coats with 150

grit abrasive paper for a smooth fnish.

2Cut the shelvesUse a builders square to mark

the top, base and shelves then clamp

a straightedge and cut the pieces using

a circular saw. Mark each panel after

cutting the last, or measure the blade

width and correct for this to mark up

all the panels in one go.

5Assemble the towerUsing an offcut to space the shelves

with 460mm gaps between them, tack

the base, shelves and top to the sides

using a brad nailer. Drill pilot holes

and secure with 30mm x 8g screws.

TIP Dont use the spacer for the last gap

as it will be 2mm less than the others.

3Plane the edgesClean up all the cut edges with a

hand plane and check for square with

a builders square across the face and

a combination square on the edges.

As cut plywood reveals imperfections

in the layers, apply multipurpose fller

to any gaps with a spatula.

6Attach the backingUse the factory corners of the

backing to square up the tower. Start at

the top and work along the side panel,

securing the backing to the edges of

the base, top, shelves and sides using

a brad nailer. Attach the bearers using

30 x 1.6mm bullethead nails.

straightedge

clampcircular

saw

cut line

circular

saw

straightedge

fillerflaw in

layer

spatula

roller

plywood

plywood

side panel

shelf

base

shelf

brad

nailer

spacer

base

back

side

panel

side

bearers

brad

nailer

build the

tower

plywood

plywood

front

bearer

CO

NSIS

TENT LO

AD

BE

ARING AB

IL

ITY

SEE

REVER

SE FOR DETAILS

storage towermeasurements in mm

go online to download the tools, costs and

materials to make these storage towers.

Handyman.net.au

Cutting list

Part siZe no.

CD PlywooD

Sides

Top/base/shelves

Backing

Dar Pine

Front bearers

SiFe bearers

2400 x 590 x 17

590 x 450 x 17

2400 x 484 x 7

484 x 42 x 19

548 x 42 x 19

6

18

3

3

6

450590

2400

590

548

42

484

BaSe

ShelF

BackSide

Side

Top

siDe Panels

toP, base anD

shelves

Side Bearer

FronTBearer
http://Handyman.net.auhttp://everloc.com.au


clutterbuster

Shelves and cabinets are handy

places for storing sports stuff,

but when youre in a hurry and,

lets face it, kids always are, its much

easier to just throw and go.

These roomy bins have no doors

and theyre not too high for little

people to reach, so its never been

easier to keep your laundry and

hallways clear of sports equipment,

schoolbags and other clutter.

Theyre also handy to have in

the garage where they can be lined

up along the wall to hold anything

from golf clubs to power tools.

They could even be used in the

backyard to store gardening tools,

clothes pegs and pet supplies.

Their practical design offers

a decent amount of capacity

but they also look good, with

throw-and-gostorage binsorganise sports gear with a practical solution that

leaves the kids with no excuse to be messy

DIY> $240HAve It Done for $640

sKIll> 1 2 3 4 5tIme> 1 DAY

bosch 530W cWrded Jigsaw, $99.bWsch-dW-it.cWY.au

Dulux super enaYel seYi GlWss insignal red, 1l, $45. dulux.cWY.au

an eye-catching shape that can

be painted to match your colour

scheme or as a feature unit.

PrePArInG tHe ProJectThis project requires one full sheet

and one quarter sheet of 17mm

plywood for the sides, shelves,

base and top, plus a half sheet of

7mm for the backing.

The front sections of the bins are

made from 135 x 19mm pine, secured

with 50mm x 8g screws.

We used a brad nailer with 40mm

brads to save time, but if you dont

have one, just hammer in 40 x 2mm

bullethead nails by hand instead.

If your bins are going to be sitting

on a concrete foor in the garage or on

a verandah, attach treated timber

bearers to the underside to protect

the plywood from rising moisture.

Fill over the fasteners and give all

surfaces a light sand before applying

two coats of bright semi gloss enamel.

tIP You can also use acrylic paint, but

apply a primer frst.
http://dulux.com.auhttp://bosch-do-it.com.au


Avoid tripping over the kids sports

kits and school bags by containing

them all in one tidy place.

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Quick and Easy

Self-Drilling decking screw from Buildex,

for fastening timber decking to Steel Joists

For the best result in achieving a

Fastener-Free look in Hardwood

and Treated Pine

take hours off your next decking project

The Self-Drilling decking screws that will

DECKING FASTENERS SPECIFIC

TO YOUR NEEDS

Full range of traditional Type 17 Decking screws

87Handyman.net.au NOVEMBER 2013NOVEMBER 2013 Australian Handyman

1Cut the partsUse a circular saw and clamped

straightedge guide to cut the top,

base, shelves and centre boards

from plywood. Cut the basic

rectangular shape of the sides,

then use a mitresaw or handsaw

to cut the front panels from pine.

4Cut the side panelsClamp the side panels together

in pairs and cut the edge profle on

the frst pair using a jigsaw. Trace

the profle onto the second pair

and cut it to shape.

TIP Keep the jigsaws pendulum

action switched off for a Kner cut.

2Set out the sidesPlane the edges and check for

square using a builders square on the

face and a combination square or speed

square on the edge. To set out one of

the sides to use as a template, start by

marking points 388mm and 776mm

from the base, 100mm in from the edge.

5Match up the pairsUse a random orbital sander to sand

the cut proKles of both pairs of sides,

taking care to maintain a square edge

as you go. Unclamp the pairs and align

them back to back then square lines for

the shelves between the inside points

of the zigzag edges.

3Mark the cut linesComplete the side proKle by

marking 100, 488 and 876mm up

from the base along the edge of the

side. Mark zigzag cut lines connecting

these points with the previous setout

points, Knishing 100mm in from the

edge at the base and top.

6Assemble the binsSecure the shelves using a brad

nailer, then tack the fronts in position

with brads and reinforce each joint

with screws. Cut the backing and use

brads to attach it to one shelf assembly.

Square it up, then add the centre boards

and secure the second assembly.

build the

bins

clamp

straightedge

circular saw

combination

square

pencil

marks

builders

square

zigzag

lines

plywood

side

panel

jigsaw

random

orbital

sander

brad

nailer

side

shelf

front

side

panel

wo

rk

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op

side

side

88 NOVEMBER 2013 Australian HanAyman

THrow-And-go sTorAge binsmeasurements in mm

go online to AoHnloaA the tools, materials

anA costs to builA these storage bins.

Handyman.net.au

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CuTTing lisT

PArT siZe no.

Cd Plywood

Sides

Top/base

Shelves

Centre boards

Backing

dAr Pine

Front panels

1166 x 400 x 17

1200 x 300 x 17

370 x 280 x 17

392 x 50 x 17

1200 x 1200 x 7

370 x 135 x 19

4

2

4

2

1

6

1200 300

1166

Side

FronTShelF

BaCk

Side

FronTShelF

FronT

CenTre Boar

d

CenTre Bo

ard

1166

100

100

100

Top

BaSe

ShelveS

side seTouT

388

488

776

876

CenTre BoardS

Side Side

SideBaSeTop

Side

CuTTing lAyouT

r vt

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wwwyrstru
http://www.myfirstgarden.com.au

http://www.seasol.com.au

91Handyman.net.au NOVEMbEr 2013

Trim plants to a healthy size and keep soil intiptop shape with these garden must-haves

keeping the garden in check

Whether you take pride and pleasure

in trimming topiary, or if pruning is

just another garden chore, its still

important to know what tools to use.

handyman technical subeditor

gun arvidssen says, technology

has come to our rescue, not only

for the job of pruning itself, but

also for dealing with the offcuts

and improving the soil.

ingeniously designed power tools

aside, hand pruners also beneft from

clever features such as a geared

cutting action to snip through the

toughest branches with ease.

the health and prosperity of your

garden depends on keeping the

plants in shape and looking after the

soil. Using these three tools, you can

create a healthy, attractive garden.

PRUNERS come in a variety of power

and manual options to shape your

plants and trees. From small bushy

shrubs to thick tree branches, there

is a tool for every cutting job.

MULCHERS can shred the offcuts

from your Fruning into either

woodchiF mulch or fner comFost

to mix into the soil.

TILLERS cut through soil to aerate

and mix through organic material

such as the leaves and branches you

shredded after Fruning them. tillers

are Ferfect for starting new garden

beds or reviving old ones.

TILLER

PRUNINg Saw

MULCHER

92 NOVEMbEr 2013 Australian Handyman

Regular pruning of bushes and

shrubs can be the difference between

a ragged, straggly garden and an

attractive, lush outdoor living space.

Every bush has a characterEstEc

shape and sEze, and for each there

Es a prunEng technEque to brEng out

Ets best and encourage fowerEng.

For optEmumresults, EdentEfy your

busFes and learn about tFeEr needs.

CUT THE BRANCH TIP just beyond

a new bud and tFe followEng years

growtF wEll be cFannelled Ento

tFe sEde brancFes, creatEng

a mucF fuller appearance.

TFEs FeadEng-off tecFnEque

stEmulates growtF En tFe smaller

sEde brancFes, creatEng new buds

tFat wEll fll En vacant areas.

Keep track of tFe results

to gauge FowmucF braKcFEKg

youll Keed to do Kext year.

TIP TFEs tecFKEque works

best oK busFes tFat grow

mostly from sEKgle stalks,

as opposed to oKes tFat

coKtEKually seKd up Kew sFoots

sucF as FydraKgea aKd forsytFEa. picture[left]ThinKsTocK

Prune branches just abUve a bud tUprUmUte denser grUwth next year.

BYPASS SECATEURS Fave

a sEKgle curved blade tFat

cuts wEtF a scEssor actEoK

aloKg awEder Fook. ideal

for small Keat cuts.

ANVIL SECATEURS Fave

a straEgFt cuttEKg blade.

TFey are great for large

braKcFes, but less Keat

tFaK bypass secateurs.

HEDGE SHEARS resemble

oversEzed scEssors aKd are

good oK tFEck folEage as well

as small twEgs. TFe perfect

cFoEce for sFapEKg topEary.

HEDGE TRIMMERS are tFe

powered versEoK of Fedge

sFears. TFey Fave a loKg,

Karrowblade tFatmoves

back aKd fortF at FEgF speed.

if you oKly Fave a couple of rose busFes to tEdy up oKce a year, tFeK a paEr of secateurs or possEbly a lopper Es all you wEll Keed.

But Ef you Fave lots of Fedges aKd busFes, or fruEt trees tFat Keed regularmaEKteKaKce, youmay decEde to use some power tools.

HoMELITE$189

CYCLoNE$46

CYCLoNE$47

fISkARS$65


For bushes and small trees, start

by pruning off any dead or damaged

branches. Not only do they look

terrible, they encourage rot and

disease to take hold.

Also cut out wilted, dry or

diseased branches as soon as you

spot them, as the infection or pest

could spread to the rest of the tree.

Branches that rub against each

other should be cut back, even if

Bushes such as forsythia and

hydrangea send up new canes from

their roots every year. To control

the bush height, the best method is

to prune out the oldest wood.

Trim out newer canes to thin the

interior of the plant, letting light in

and helping to control its spread.

If it has become too large and is

more trouble to bring under control

than its worth, you can generally cut

off all the canes and the roots will

send up new shoots, giving you a neat

new bush within a year or two.

BOWSAWS are great for

cutting small to medium

branches. Their blades

have multi-serrated teeth

to ensure quick cutting.

BYPASS LOPPERS have long

arms for maximum grunt

and cut with a bypass action.

They can handle limbs up to

40mm in diameter.

POLE PRUNERS come in

electric, petrol and battery

models. Their extendable

handles allow for easy

access to higher branches.

PRUNING SAWS have an

ergonomic curved design

and coarse-pitched teeth

for easy push-pull action

and a swift, clean cut.

they seem relatively strong and

healthy. The rubbing will wear

away the bark and cause problems

further down the track.

Low-hanging branches that

stick out at an angle or cause an

obstruction should also be removed

in case they injure someone.

TIPWhen in doubt, cut it out, as

pruning also thins out the bush,

opening its interior to more light

and air, which in turn encourages

fuller, healthier growth.

Cut off dead, damaged or dangerouslimbs as soon as you spot them.

IRWIN$15

HORTEx$8

RYOBI$199

CYCLONE$65


Dont be tempted to take shortcuts

by simply trimming off the ends

of a bushs branches.

This fat-top haircut approach

may look fne for a year or two,

but it stimulates growth on the

outermost branches, forces the

bush to grow into an unnatural

shape and fails to control size.

The bush will actually grow

larger and becomemore diffcult

for you to bring back under control

without it being ruined.

TIP This doesnt apply to hedge-type

bushes such as box or lilly pilly,

which respond well to tip-pruning.

Most bushes will eventually grow

too large and dense if they are

left to their own devices.

Within a year or two, a plant

may become so overgrown that it

will be impractical to prune back

into shape, as there will simply be

too much new growth crowding

and competing for space.

If you are faced with this

problem, its best to control size

and shape by selectively pruning

out a few whole branches, cutting

them right back to the trunk.

This opens the plant to

light and encourages healthy

growth at the interior.

Make cuts just above the collar,

which is the slight bulge at the point

where a branch joins the main trunk.

If left intact, this collar will grow

over the cut, sealing off the wound

and healing it. Make the cut square to

the diameter, rather than diagonal,

for the smallest wound.

TIPDont leave a stub on any of the

limbs when pruning, as its likely to

rot and become diseased.

Unlike cane-type bushes,

evergreens grow from their

existing stems, developing a more

permanent branch framework

and needing less pruning.

If your landscaping was well

planned, these bushes will grow to ft

their spot with relatively little help.

Theyll only need a light annual

pruning to remove dead branches

and control size and shape.

Cutting corners by fat-topping will

create more work in the long run.


Improving the quality of a new garden

bed can take hours of slaving away

with a mattock and hoe to aerate the

soil and mix in organic matter.

A power tiller makes the job

faster, and its an easy way to add

compost or mulch, increasing

drainage and water-holding capacity.

Tilling also makes the soil

more permeable, encouraging

root growth and attracting

microorganisms and worms that

leave nutrients in the soil.

DONT USE A TILLER in wet soil as it

will clod up and dry in thick crusts.

If a ball of soil sticks together when

dropped, it is too wet to till.

Ensure the soil is deeply tilled.

If only the top surface is ploughed,

a hard layer forms below. This will

When creating healthy soil, a power

tiller is much faster than a fork.

FRONT-TINE TILLERS are less

expensive than rear-tine machines and

are generally pushed by the operator

rather than being self-propelled.

They feature similar power and

tilling capacity to rear-tine models, and

are great for larger planting areas.

REAR-TINE TILLERS are the largest,

offering a tilling width of up to 700mm.

Usually self-propelled, they

feature either synchronous tines that

spin in the same direction as the

wheels, or counter-rotating tines that

turn in the opposite direction.

There are many varieties of cultivator available, and theyre all capable of different workloads. Before selecting

a tiller, consider how large an area you will be planting, and how often you are likely to use it.

impede roots and reduce moisture

intake, leading to a lower crop yield.

In addition to mixing in compost

and the output from your shredder,

apply plenty of organic matter over

the top of freshly tilled soil as it helps

retain moisture and reduces weeds.

Keep plants growing throughout

the year to avoid having to prepare the

soil from scratch again in spring.

MINI CULTIVATORS are the smallest

and lightest type, designed to remove

weeds and turn soil in average-sized

domestic garden beds.

Their manoeuvrability makes them

ideal for small spaces, but they are

not suited for heavy workloads.


Once all your bushes and trees have

been pruned to perfection, youll

need to do something about all the

material youve trimmed off.

A mulcher, also called a shredder

or chipper, is an invaluable garden

accessory that converts the waste

from pruning into a useful resource.

If you only undertake a major

pruning mission once or twice a year,

or if you are faced with a one-off task

such as cutting a damaged branch

from a large tree, hiring a heavy-duty

chipper might be the best option.

But if you Ind yourself with

mountains of prunings every

fortnight during the warmer

months, you might Ind theyre just

too much for the compost heap.

This is where a tool that

transforms them into Ine mulch

will probably be a worthwhile

addition to your power tool collection.

TIPWhile most mulchers handle

branches quite well, only the

higher-end models are really

effective at shredding Iner

material such as leaf litter.

ELECTRIC MULCHERS or shredders are

likely to be the best option unless you

have a large property and regularly

need to prune and maintain large trees.

These are easy to operate,

require virtually no maintenance,

and can easily chew through branches

of up to 35mm in diameter.

PETROLMULCHERS or chippers with

a powerful four-stroke engine might

be the better choice for offcuts from

more ambitious pruning.

These are similar to the industrial

machines used by arborists and

professional tree fellers to create

a truckload of mulch at a time.

TRIMMINGS such as fowers and

foliage should be shredded Irst.

Take care not to use organic

material that might have been

sprayed with chemicals.

LEAF LITTERmixed with small

shredded branches from your pruning

makes excellent mulch. Avoid using

this type in bushIre-prone areas

because it can be highly fammable.

CONIFER OFFCUTSmake a good

wind-resistant mulch that helps

lower the pH of the soil, making

it particularly hospitable to azaleas,

rhododendrons and camellias.


In most cases, covering areas of

bare soil with a layer of organic

mulch greatly simplifes your

gardening chores.

Mulch reduces water loss from

the soil, slowing evaporation and

improving water absorption when it

rains or when you use a sprinkler.

It slows weed growth while

returning nutrients to the soil

as it breaks down.

Mulch also protects plant roots

from extremes of hot and cold

weather, and evens out dramatic

fuctuations in temperature.

It can also add colour and

texture, which is a big improvement

for areas of plain soil.

The best time to apply mulch is

in spring, then keep it topped up

throughout the year.

The key is to avoid leaving any

soil bare, so always mulch around

new plantings straight away.

Before mulching, dig out all

traces of perennial weeds and water

the garden beds before and after

applying the mulch.

Spread your shredded prunings

over the soil about 75 to 100mm deep,

but avoid mulching right up to stems or

trunks as it may cause them to rot.

PEBBLE MULCH is worth mentioning

as a complement to the organic

material. It works well around

trailing vegies such as pumpkins

because it helps prevent rotting.

TREE BARK and woodchip from larger

branches drains well and its acidity

makes it good for mulching around

strawberries. As a general rule, dont

use it on a vegetable garden.

LUCERnE HAy breaks down over time

to feed the soil, which means you will

have to keep it topped up. Use it around

roses to help repel black spot.

TIP Chop it up for easier spreading.

AlwaEs mulch around new plantings

as soon as theE have been bedded in.


Makita 400W Hedge Trimmer, $99.makita.com.au

Ozito 2400W Rapid EWectric Shredder,$159. ozito.com.au

Ryobi 25cc Two-StrokeCuWtivator, $479.

Bosch Keo 10.8V PruViVg Saw, $149.bosch-gardeV.com.au

Bosch 2300W TurbiVe EWectricShredder, $799.

McCuWWoch MFT55-170R Compact TiWWer,$749. mccuWWoch.com.au

Ryobi 25cc Two-stroke PoWe PruVer,$299. ryobi.com.au

Masport 5HP Chipper, $1198,masport.com.au

Briggs & StrattoV 6.5HP CuWtivatorTiWWer, $675. agrmachiVery.com.au

PRunERS

Investing in a pruner, mulcher and tiller may be expensive, but if you have a large outdoor area to look after it will pay off

through the time and effort you save. Even the light-duty options make life much easier for a very reasonable outlay.

MulCHERS

TillERS

Easy to use and weighing only 3kg,

this is the ideal way to give hedges

a regular haircut, with a 480mm

blade and ergonomic handle.

Simple to use, with a 35mm input

capacity and overload protection,

this unit has reversible blades and

weighs 13kg, so its easily portable.

Great for average-size gardens, this

mini-cultivator has a tilling width of

258mm at a depth of up to 198mm,

with a sand ballast for stability.

This tool features a grip for locking

onto unsupported branches. It can

handle limbs up to a whopping 80mm

in diameter yet weighs just over 1kg.

This compact front-tine tiller unit has

a cut width of 550mm and a working

depth of 280mm. It comeswith optional

accessories for ridging and ploughing.

Allowing you to reach high branches,

this pruner features a 2.7m

extension pole, powerful two-stroke

engine and 150mm cutting capacity.

This petrol model cuts branches up

to 50mm in diameter and has nine

fail hammer blades to reduce all

your prunings to fne mulch.

With a 700mm cutting width and

350mm cultivating depth, this

self-drive rear-tine unit can propel

itself either forward or in reverse.

With a feed capacity of 42mm and

a 53L collection box, this is a powerful

shredder. The hopper is removable

to easily deal with blockages.
http://makita.com.auhttp://bosch-garden.com.auhttp://ryobi.com.auhttp://ozito.com.auhttp://masport.com.auhttp://mcculloch.com.auhttp://agrmachinery.com.au

The extensive range of Ozito power

garden tools will be very handy to have

in the garden this Spring.

From edging the lawns, trimming around

trees and bushes, shredding branches and

cuttings, to blowing it all away!

Check out our power garden tool range

at your nearest store and remember to

give it a go with Ozito.

Check us out at ozito.com.au

or call 1800 069 486

Very handyto have around.
http://ozito.com.au


wAterfeAture

Normally, installing a fshpond

involves digging a sizeable

hole in the ground, which

in turn means hours of back-breaking

toil with a spade and shovel.

This pond requires much less

elbow grease, with an elevated design

that comprises a simple box with

a pond liner for a no-dig solution.

Before you start, check with

your local council to fnd out

the maximum permitted depth

of a water feature before any

fencing is required.

In many areas a maximum depth

of just 300mm is allowed. This

legislation was introduced to protect

young children from tragic accidents.

Pond in a boxbuild an above-ground fshpond and decorativetrellis made from pine and ply in just a weekend

DIY> $1030HAve It Done for $1830

SKILL> 1 2 3 4 5tIme> 2 DAYS

ryKbi one+ CKrdless Impact Driver,

cKLsKle KLly, $99. ryKbi.cKm.au

The elevated design of this project

makes it a safer option than a typical

in-ground pond, as its less likely that

a toddler could trip and fall in.

Choosing a suitable location is

important, since prolonged direct

sunlight will excessively heat up the

water, promoting algae growth.

Even worse, it would only take

one severe summer scorcher for your

goldfsh to cook in their pond.

You will also need to install the

pond close to an outdoor power source

so you can connect the pump that

supplies the fountainhead.

CHooSe tHe mAterIALSUse concrete stepping stones and

roadbase as a foundation, with H4

treated pine for the footing plates and

baseboards. The rest of the structure

can be built from H3 treated pine.

Hardwood can be used instead of

treated pine, but keep the section sizes

similar so the structure will be strong

enough to hold the weight of the water.

Use 30 x 30mm treated pine quad

beading for the corner blocks and

25 x 25mm aluminium angle for the

fashing over the baseboards.

To fnish the project, install

a reticulating pump and feed the hose

through the slot in the liner capping.

Round over the edges of the top

capping, secure a fountainhead to the

trellis and apply two coats of exterior

enamel or acrylic paint.Picture(toPleft)ThinksTock
http://ryobi.com.au


Skip the back-breaking excavation

with this easy-build water feature.

ou

td

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r

FastenersUse 65mm x 10g exterior timber

screws for the main structure,

including the footing plates, stud

walls, base and top plates, capping

and trellis frame. Attach the

cladding boards to the stud walls

with 40 x 2mm galvanised nails.

http://www.readersdigest.com.auhttp://hANDyMAN.NET.AU/SUBSCRiBE


1Build the trellisAssemble the pond front, back

and side frames. Make the trellis

by securing the battens to the base

rail, posts and arch then add the

capping. Attach the ledgers to the

back frame then secure the trellis

through the posts with screws.

4Build the boxJoin the frames by securing

screws through the inside of the

studs, then use screws to attach

the box to the footing plates.

Attach the lining then add corner

bead cut from 30 x 30mm treated

pine quad in the corners.

2Prepare the pond siteSet out the pond using marking

paint and position stepping stones at

the corners. Dig 100mm deep trenches

between then Jll with roadbase and

use a straightedge to check for level

in all directions. Add extra roadbase

to adjust the height if needed.

5Secure the pond linerUse scrap bricks to build up the

inside of the pond so the maximum

water depth will be 300mm or less.

Add Jne sand to Jll the gaps and cover

the bricks with a layer 20mm thick.

Fold the pond liner neatly in the

corners and staple it to the top plates.

3Lay the footing platesCompact the roadbase then drill

5mm clearance holes at an angle on

the inner and outer edges of the

footing plates. Secure with skewed

screws, check for square by comparing

the diagonals, check for level and

make any necessary adjustments.

6Add the fnishing touchesFill the pond with water, attach

the liner capping and trim the liner.

Secure the baseboards using screws

and attach the fashing with silicone

then add the corner and top rails.

Secure the cladding with equal overlap

and Jnish with the top capping.

build the

pond

pond

liner

top

plate

studs

baseboard

flashing

lining

lining

post

post

trellis

capping

concrete

pavers

footing

plates

footing

plate

roadbase

spirit

level

studs

baseplate

ledger

ledger

cladding

trellis

pond

frames

baseplate

top

capping

ou

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base rail

battens

104 NOVEMBER 2013 Australian HaHdymaH

Pond in A boxmeasurements in mm

ArcH setout

GG GHliHe tG dGwHlGad the tGGls, materials

aHd cGsts tG build this pGHd iH a bGx.

Handyman.net.au

ou

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cuttinG list

PArt siZe no.

cd exterior PlYWood

LiLiLg

H4 treAted Pine

FootiLg plates

Baseboards

H3 treAted Pine

Studs

Baseplates

Top plates

CorLer bead

Ledgers

Posts

Base rail

HorizoLtal battHLs

600 x 970 x 12

600 x 946 x 12

1200 x 138 x 42

924 x 138 x 42

1188 x 140 x 19

1150 x 140 x 19

475 x 90 x 42

1150 x 90 x 42

970 x 90 x 42

1150 x 90 x 42

970 x 90 x 42

600 x 30 x 30

1150 x 90 x 42

2000 x 138 x 42

1100 x 138 x 42

1100 x 42 x 42

2

2

2

2

2

2

20

2

2

4

4

4

2

2

1

5

VHrtical battHLs

Arch

TrHllis cappiLg

LiLHr cappiLg

CorLHr boards

Top rail

CladdiLg

Top cappiLg

AluMiniuM AnGle

FlashiLg

1300 x 42 x 42

1150 x 138 x 42

1200 x 138 x 42

1150 x 90 x 19

970 x 90 x 19

479 x 90 x 42

1054 x 42 x 42

970 x 42 x 42

1054 x 140 x 19

970 x 140 x 19

1300 x 240 x 42

820 x 240 x 42

1054 x 25 x 25

970 x 25 x 25

4

1

1

2

2

6

1

2

4

8

2

2

1

2

ToPCAPPing

LedgerS

ArCH

PoST

HorizonTALBATTenS

VerTiCALBATTenS

SLoT ForPumP HoSe

BASerAiL

TreLLiSCAPPing

LinerCAPPing

ToPPLATeS

ToPrAiL

FLASHing

BASeBoArd

CornerBoArd

FooTingPLATe

STudS

2000

600598

475

42

1300

479

90

90

970140

23

1200

1150

1150

1200

138

100

1200

BASePLATe

CLAdding

Lining

CornerBeAd

575

200 275100

100

3863

75

42

42

http://www.richgro.com.au


LANDSCAPESOLUTION

AFTER

The borders of the garden beds are

defned and the grass cant encroach.

107Handyman.nHt.au NOVEMBER 2013

OU

TD

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R

Everyone likes a carpet of lush

green grass but no-one likes

runners that creep their way

into garden beds and under plants,

making it a constant battle to

maintain a tidy edge.

A simple solution to stop grass

invading beds is to install edging.

Its affordable and can be done in half

a day, dramatically decreasing the

time spent on garden maintenance.

On this coastal property, treated

pine sleepers were used to defne

a border between the murraya hedge

and buffalo grass.

A trench was dug and

lengths of timber buried

to half their height in the

soil, with hardwood stakes

positioned in the bed to

support the edging.

A few runners may work

their way under the edging

but they are easy to pull out.

If after a few years the

level of the edging drops too

low it can be lifted out and

a layer of sand added before

replacing the timber.

Cut tHe timberFor this project, choose H4 grade

treated pine which is specifcally for

in-ground use outdoors. It is treated

to resist rot and insect attack.

We used 3000 x 200 x 50mm

sleepers buried to half their width

underground. This created a raised

edge, making it easier to use a line

trimmer to cut the grass.

If the sleepers are too long to

transport in your vehicle you could

ask the supplier to cut them down for

you, but this will make it much harder

to get a straight border and affect the

overall look of the edging.

tiP Drill clearance holes in the

hardwood stakes and use galvanised

screws to secure them if theres a lot

of movement in the ground.

Lay TIMBEREDGINGCreate a defned border between the

lawn and garden in an afternoon

WoRDs aND PICTuREs JeCCa blake

buffalo grass crHHps righP up Po a rowof hHdging, blurring PhH boundariHs.

beFOre

H4 trHaPHd PinH SlHHpHrs,3000 x 200 x 50JJ,

aboOP $12 Hach, froJ bOnnings.


1Mark the borderTo mark the position of the border,

measure the area and set a stringline.

Choose the size of treated pine to be

used for the edging and carefully select

straight lengths that are as long as

possible to reduce the number of joints.

4Position the timberLay the timber lengths end to end

in the trench following a set stringline

and tap down with a lump hammer or

mallet. Position hardwood stakes

evenly along the edging to hold it in

place, tapping them into the soil.

3Check the levelMeasure from the base to the

top of the trench to check the height

is uniform all the way along and use

a spirit level to check the base is level,

then remove or add soil in places if

needed, frming it down.

2Dig the trenchUse a square-nose shovel to

excavate a trench for the edging to

a depth of half the width of the timber,

making sure the wall and base is fat so

the edging sits straight. Remove any

large roots, rocks or debris in the way.

6Backfll with soilUse the soil that was dug up

when excavating the trench to fll

the garden bed behind the edging,

frming it down by hand as you go.

Add a layer of bark mulch in the bed

to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

5Join the cornersButt the end of a length of timber

against the side of another to take the

edging around a corner, hammering

in galvanised nails skewed at 45 to

secure the two pieces.

TIP Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting.

INSTALL

THE

EDGING

HEDGE

GrASS

SHovEL

borDEr

SpIrIT

LEvEL

TrENcH

TApE

mEASurE

TrENcH

EDGING

EDGING

corNEr

GArDEN

bED

HAmmEr

mALLET

STAkE

GALvANISED

NAIL

EDGING

GrASS

bAckfILL

STAkE

SL

K0

10

/H

M

AUSSIE

HOMES

HOMES

ARE

SHERLOCK

WHEELBARROWS

Choosing the material

GGrden edging is G simple DIY option thGt comeI in rollI

of plGItic, metGl Gnd pine. JuIt cut off whGt you need Gnd

Iecure it with pegI or ItGkeI in the IGmemGteriGl.

Tough, durGble Gnd fexible, edging rollI Gre

ideGl for curved boundGrieI. ChooIe the mGteriGl

thGt beIt IuitI the Ityle of gGrden.

n Plastic iI eGIy to mGnipulGte Gnd cGn be uIed to

mGke tree guGrdI. ChooIe G UV ItGbiliIed product.

n Pine edging iI treGted to reIiIt rot Gnd creGteI Gn

GttrGctive, nGturGl-looking border.

n metal edging iI mGde from gGlvGniIed Iteel Io it

iI Itrong, durGble Gnd wont ruIt.

Visit handyman.net.au/mag for the instructions on howto build a raised vegie patch using timber sleepers.

Get more online

icon Plastics 125mmGarden edge, $30 for 10m.

GconplastGcs.com.au

Rolapak treated PGne150mm ezy edge, $20

for 3m, from BunnGngs.

picture(righttop)GeTTYImaGes

Rockdale corrugated150mmGarden edgGng, $22for 6m, from BunnGngs.
http://handyman.net.au/maghttp://ICONPLASTICS.COM.AU

Treated with a merbau stain fHr a rich

fnish, the three stacked sleepers with

capping reach abHut 650mm high.

easy install garden wall

3 Build THe corners by concreting

the corner posts in position, using

a builders square to install the

sleepers at 90 to the wall.

TiP To build steps later add a 1200mm

deep and 2400mmwide recessed area,

incorporatinT four corner posts.

2 insTAll THe joiner PosTs usinT

a strinTline as a Tuide then puttinT

a base sleeper in each end post. Position

the joiner posts then diT 550mm deep

hoPes and concrete them into position.

UUe a Upirit PeveP to pPumb, aPiTninT them

with the UtrinTPine and PeavinT to dry.

1 secure THe end PosTs by diTTinT

two 550mm deep hoPeU and poUitioninT

the 1100mm poUtU. Pour in concrete up

to 600mm from the top of the poUt, uUinT

a Upirit PeveP to check for pPumb.

TiP A 20kT baT of cement mixed with

TraveP and Uand fPPU three hoPeU.

sPiriTlevel

joinerPosT

sTringline

600mm

endPosT

bAsesleePer

bAsesleePer

cornerPosT

wAllsPiriTlevel

building a lRw wall is an effective

way tR deal with landscape issues

such as a slRping Rr terraced site.

Walls can alsR We used tR create raised

Weds in gardens with pRRr Rr WRggy sRil.

Using the Retain-iT systeT a DIYer

can install a garden wall in a weekend Rr

even just Rne day. The systeT uses

galvanised pRsts with treated pine

sleepers. FRr this prRject, treated pine

capping and a set Rf steps were added.

TR start, estaWlish the line Rf the

wall, excavating 200TT Wehind it, then

use a laser level Rr duTpy level tR set

the fnished height Rf the wall either end,

setting Rut a stringline as a guide.

be sure tR install drainage Wehind

the wall using geRtech flter clRth,

agUR pipe and gravel.

TIP Check lRcal cRuncil regulatiRns tR

fnd Rut if yRu need apprRval frst.

4 SloT In THe SleePerS, positioning

the base sleepers frst. Level and pack

them to leave 400mm oL post above,

then install the middle and top rows.

TIP Check the height oL the top sleeper

matches the post so the capping sits

fush along the wall.

5 InSTall draInagewith a geotech

flter cloth positioned behind the wall

and Lolded over the sleepers. Lay 20m oL

100mm agfo pipe with clear exits at the

ends then cover with 20mm gravel to

300mm deep, Lolding the cloth back to

separate the drainage and backfll.

6 fInISH THewall by adding capping.

Square cut and mitre the capping then

apply construction adhesive to the ends

and secure to the sleepers with 75mm

x 14g galvanised bugle screws. Use

a router with a roundover bit to trim the

edges. Apply two coats oL decking stain.

Build a boundary without using fasteners, spending just$400 on a D.I.Y. galvanised post system for pine sleepers

CalCUlaTIng THeMaTerIalS

measure the length Rf the wall, set the

pRsts at the right distance tR Tatch the

sleeper sizes and Tultiply the spaces

Wetween pRsts Wy the nuTWer Rf vertical

sleepers tR fnd hRw Tany yRu need.

Simple post system

This prRject used 1100TT pRsts fRr

a 600TT wall, which is three sleepers

high with a sleeper thickness Rf 75TT.

It needed 15 sleepers at 2400TT lRng

plus six each Rf 1200 and 1800TT fRr

16 Tetres Rf wall with steps in Rne panel.

MadM Lrom high tMnsilM galvanisMd

stMMl thM RMtaiR-iT posts arM a sTmplM

solutToR Lor trMatMd pTRM walls.

ALtMr thM posts arM coRcrMtMd TRto

posTtToR thM trMatMd pTRM slMMpMrs arM

droppMd TRto thM 40mm dMMp rMcMssMs

wTth Ro LastMRMrs rMquTrMd.

ThM posts comM TR thrMM hMTghts

Lor walls 200, 400 aRd 600mm hTgh, to

Ut 50 aRd 75mm thTck slMMpMrs.

whTtMsgroup.com.au end PoST

JoIner PoST

Corner PoST

CoRneRpoST

bASeSLeepeR

400mm

wALL

AgfLopipe

bUgLeSCRew

MiTRedCoRneR

pine CApping
http://whItEsgroup.com.auhttp://Handyman.net.au

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mailto:[email protected]://www.tiltawaybeds.com.auhttp://easycraft.com.auhttp://www.seasol.com.auhttp://www.cyclone.com.au

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mailto:[email protected]://www.superway.com.auhttp://www.agnewswaterputty.com.auhttp://www.wagnerflexio.com.au

For blooms within 12 weeks, get

these Fower seeds in the ground.

n AfricAn mArigold

n cAliforniAn poppy

n mexicAn sunflower

n sAlviA

n vincA

Start growing these vegies for

fresh ingredients to use for

summer salads and barbies.

n Borlotti BeAns

n chilli

n squAsh

n tomAto

n Zucchini

n cut the dead leaves

off spring bulbs to

keep them tidy.

n pinch tips off

summer annuals

to encourage

bushy growth.

n trim back

spring-Fowering

shrubs and trees after

theyve bloomed.

Give these plants an application

of a fertiliser specially formulated

for the species.

n AZAleA

n rhododendron

n cAmelliA

n gArdeniA

n orchid

n choose a frangipani to add

colour and fragrance to the garden,

and learn how to propagate them

from stem cuttings, on page 118.

n grow French or runner beans

in the vegie patch for a summer

harvest of Favour-packed pods,

from page 126.

n ZAp aphids before these

sap-sucking insects take hold,

using natural methods

to keep edibles and

ornamentals safe from

attack, see page 132.

November marks the end of spring

and is the time to get the garden

ready for the heat of summer

For a colourful display up high,

line wire baskets with coir

then Gll with potting mix

and plant with summer

Fowering annuals.

Hang the basket from

a pergola or verandah

beam, or secure a hook in

an exterior wall, making sure

the fastener can take the

weight of the basket.

Choose a sunny location with

easy access for watering, as

baskets will dry out faster

than pots on the ground.

NOVEMbEr 2013 AAsBralian handyman116

ga

rd

en

Prepare your garden beds for

the long, hot days of summer

in three easy steps.

CHECKwatering and irrigation

systems to make sure theyre

working effciently,

replacing worn or

broken fttings.

APPLY soil wetters to garden beds

and water plants at the roots.

Ensure transplants, seedlings,

leafy vegies and plants in Eower

are kept moist so they survive the

transition to hotter, drier weather.

SPREADmulch over beds to keep

plant roots cool and help the soil

retain moisture, making sure

its not too thick or it will act as

a barrier to water penetration.

117

picturesthinkstock,gEttyimagEs

The end of spring is a great time to

sow sweetcorn seeds for a summer

harvest or transplant seedlings into

the garden in cold climates.

Sow SEEDS 25mm deep in three

rows about two metres long, for

a block that will keep the average

family in corn for weeks.

The seeds germinate within

two weeks and most varieties are

ready to harvest from 12 weeks.

PLAnt SEEDLingS in a block,

spaced about 250mm apart

in each direction.

The wind will cross

pollinate block-grown

plants when in fower.

tiP Water sweetcorn

regularly while the

crops are growing.

BuDDLEjA BuzzVELVEt

Known for their fower spikes,

easy-care buddlejas are stars in

large gardens. For small spaces,

Aussie Winners has come to the

rescue with the Buddleja Buzz

series (aussiewinners.com.au).

In ivory, blue, purple or magenta

these dwarf plants grow to 1.5m

and can be kept to under a metre

with pruning. They do well in pots

and look great mass-planted.

BLoCK-gRownPLAntS

PLAntingSEEDLingS

HaBdymaB.BeD.aC NOVEMbEr 2013
http://aussiewinners.com.auhttp://Handyman.net.au


FRANGIPANI

For the scent of summer, add an

easy-care potted frangipani to

the deck, balcony or garden.

119H9ndym9n.net.9u NOVEMBER 2013

Best known as a small tree

featuring fragrant white blooms

with distinctive yellow centres,

frangipanis actually come in more

than 300 different varieties.

Native to Central America and

Mexico, frangipanis belong to the

Plumeria genus and are a small to

medium deciduous tree.

Frangipanis have glossy dark green

foliage, and the stems and leaves

contain milky white sap. The fowers

come in shades of pink, yellow,

orange, red and even purple.

Relatively slow growing, the

majority reach up to about eight

metres high and four metres wide,

making them a great choice for

small gardens. The dwarf varieties

are ideal for growing in pots.

As frangipanis are frost tender

they grow well in the warm coastal

areas of Australia, but with a bit of

TLC can be container grown in

slightly cooler zones.

They are very tolerant of dry

conditions and once established they

dont really need much watering

except during long periods of drought.

In tHe garden

Frangipanis can cope with light sea

breezes but prefer protection from

strong winds. In cooler climates, its

essential to give them the warmest

and sunniest spot in the garden.

If grown in pots, move them

to a sheltered area in late autumn, in

a north-facing position against a brick

wall where at night the tree will get

the heat stored from the day.

A frangipani tree is perfect for

creating summer shade and letting

in winter sun when its leaves drop.

Hang small baskets planted with

brightly coloured pansies or petunias

from the branches of a bare tree in

winter to brighten up the garden.

tIP The variety with yellow-throated

white fowers is the most commonly

grown and earliest to fower.

Ga

rD

EN

PLantPrOFILe

Add a touch of the tropics to your yard

with an easy propagation technique

Words Jecca BLake

Going nativeThe Australian rainforest tree

HymeHosporum favum is called

the Hative fraHgipaHi because of

its creamy yellow, sweet-smelliHg

fowers but is Hot related to the

Plumeria species. GrGwiHg well iH

mGst areas Gf the cGuHtry, its aH

evergreeH tree that reaches 20m.

The braHches grGw iH hGrizGHtal

layers aHd the glGssy, dark greeH

leaves have hairy uHdersides.

natIve

FrangIPanI

picturessHuTTersTock,GeTTyimAGes,THinksTock


How to growFrangipanis grow well in most

types of soil but good

drainage is essential.

PoSItIoN in a location

that receives at least

six hours of sun a day.

They tolerate part

shade but grow faster

and fower better

in a sunny spot.

wAtEr young

trees during

the growing season

until established

then only during

extended dry periods.

Let pot plants dry

out between waterings.

FEED with organic

fertiliser high in phosphorous

when the leaves appear, to

encourage lots of fowering

and strong root growth.

Use a liquid seaweed solution every

14 days during the growing season.

MULCH the soil to keep the roots

cool in summer and warm in winter,

retain moisture and suppress weeds.

To avoid stem rot problems,

dont apply mulch near the trunk.

PrUNE only to shape the tree and

maintain the size during late winter or

early spring before leaf growth starts.

For a compact, dense and leafy

tree, prune branches back by a third

to half their length, creating lots of

shoots near the pruned ends.

Make cuts vertical so sap drips off

and water cant penetrate the branch.

wAtCH For stem rot caused by frost,

drought, lack of sunlight or old age,

pruning any dry or withered growth

back to healthy tissue.

Frangipani rust causes orange

pustules to appear on the underside

of leaves while the tops go brown.

Gather and destroy fallen foliage,

then spray the tree with fungicide in

the warm months and again in winter

as a preventative measure.

YaLes rose Shield InsecLicide, MiLicide& FunMicide, $13 for 200ml. yaLes.com.au

CHooSINg A vArIEtY

n Dark red fowers

n Spicy perfume

n Grows up So 4m high

n Reaches 4m wRde

n For warmer zones

n HoS pRnk blooms wRSh

orange cenSres

n Grows So 5m hRgh and wRde

n Peachy sweeS scenS

n Long, sSrappL peSals

nWhRSe, red and Lellow So

orange sSrRped Power

n SweeS perfume

n Grows up So 9m hRgh

n Reaches 9m wRde

n Round orange Powers

wRSh a pRnk blush

n Red veRnRng on blooms

n Grows So 4m hRgh

n HRghlL scenSed

BLack ReD ceRiSecanDy StRiPe monSoon

FrangRpanRs are selecSed bL colour, so vRsRS Lour local nurserL So buL one Rn Power ShaS suRSs She clRmaSe of She area,

or go onlRne So buL a Sree from a specRalRsS supplRer lRke SunshRne coasS FrangRpanR Farm (frangRpanRfarm.com.au).

GA

RD

EN

picture[left)tHinkStock
http://yates.com.auhttp://frangipanifarm.com.au

Frangipanis are easily propagateF from a stem in early

spring or winter when there is less sap movement.

FinF a broken piece of branch or cut one off the tree

anF trim the enF. Leave the cutting outsiFe for a couple

of weeks to Fry out the Lilky sap in the steL, allowing

the cut to heal anF Fevelop a callus.

Pot up the steL cutting in a gooF quality potting Lix

anF in a few weeks it will forL roots anF grow leaves.

TIPWater regularly Furing the growing season.

l1 CUT off PIECEs of

steL about 300LL long

using a hanFsaw, being

careful to not tear the

bark, then scrape one

enF with a sharp knife.

l2 PlanT THE sTEM into

a container PlleF with

potting Lix anF water in.

TIP Plant large cuttings

600LL Feep in a beF anF

stake until establisheF.

Propagating from a stem

handsaW

stem

cutting

Pot

n Large white fowers

n dark green leaves

n grows up to 5L high

n Reaches 5L wiFe

n evergreen in warL areas

n ViviF yellow petals

n Large fower clRsters

n heavy blooLer

n sweet fragrance

n grows Rp to 3L high

singaPoRe WhiteButteR yeLLoW
http://www.popeproducts.com.au

122 NOVEMBER 2013 AustralAan Handyman

springbloomers

CLASSIC CLIvIAS

The harbAngers of sprAng, clAvAas

brAng vAbrant colour to the garden.


Whether you grow them in

beds or pots, clivias are

among the most versatile,

hardy and beautiful plants you can

include in your landscape.

Given the right position theyll

reward you with luxuriant foliage and

blooms with a minimum of care.

The standard colour is salmon

but they also come in near white,

buttery yellow and fame orange.

Leaves are emerald green, varying

from long and narrow to very broad.

Clivia miniata, the most often

seen species, fowers in late winter

but C. nobilis and C. caulescens can

bloom a couple of times a year.

TIP Variegated forms are available but

are costly and often unstable, reverting

to plain green as the plant matures.

A good ProvIder

Clivias are showy but surprisingly

low maintenance and are easy to grow

from seed or propagate by division.

Over time clivias naturally form

an ever-expanding clump in beds,

while in pots they can become too

crowded to perform well.

After spring fowering,

a large garden clump or

root-bound container plant

can be divided for lots more

clivias that can be potted up.

Most clivias set a large

number of seeds every

year. These take a year to

ripen so its not unusual to

see a plant fowering while

holding a ripe seed-head from

the previous season.

Selective breedingAlso called kaffr lily, all clivia

species originally hail from

SoutS Africa and Save been mucS

sougSt after since tSeir discovery

by Europeans in about 1815.

TSey were named for Lady

CSarlotte Clive, DucSess of

NortSumberland, wSo frst

cultivated tSem in tSe UK.

Today tSe most

desirable Sybrids

come from CSina,

after decades of

extensive breedinT.

Certain top quality

varieTated forms can sell

for tSousands of dollars.

GA

RD

EN

To lift a plant from tSe Tarden, drive in a spade from tSe edTe at 45, workinT your way around until tSe entire clump

comes loose tSen remove most of tSe soil from tSe roots. TIP You may need to break tSe pot to free a crowded plant.

l1 CUT THe rooTS for plants witS

100mm of rSizome and a leaf set.

Remove any soRl and damaTed roots.

TrRm tSe leaves by a tSRrd and put Rn

a cool, dry spot untRl tSe cuts seal.

l2 Add eACH PLANT to a pot part-Ulled

wRtS pottRnT mRx, Sold Rt uprRTSt and

backUll around tSe roots and rSRzome,

UrmRnT tSe mRx down.

TIP Use tSe same metSod Rn beds.

l3 PoSITIoN THe PoTS Rn a sSady

spot and water Rn tSe plants well.

Dont keep clRvRas too moRst wSRle

tSey establRsS, as tSRs can lead to

funTal problems and rot.

These landscape lovelies colour up a shady corner andcan be divided after spring fowering for lots more plantsWords and projecTs AdAmWoodHAmS

Dividing a clump

picTures(lefT)ShUTTERSToCK(righTcenTre)ThiNKSToCK

LEAvES

RooTS

poTTiNg mix

DiviDEDpLANT

poTTEDCLiviAS


GA

RD

EN

Growing from seedSpring is when clivia seeds are ripe and ready. Sow them in pots and the frst leaves shoSld be visible in a month or two.

The seeds have a high viability rate sT yTS may be able tT grTw 20 Tr mTre plants a year frTm a single plant.

How to growThe roots and leaves of clivias grow

from a feshy rhizome that branches

out, creating offsets or pups that in

turn shoot new leaves.

Clivias need free-draining soil

and dont like frost but tolerate heavy

shade. In cold climates they are often

grown as indoor plants.

PoSItIoN in a warm, shady spot with

protection from afternoon sun. The

dappled light under trees is ideal.

wAtEr regularly in spring and

summer but let them dry out in

autumn and winter. Clivias are quite

drought-tolerant but wont survive

wet feet, so dont use pot saucers.

FEED in spring after Cowering with

an all-purpose fertiliser and give them

regular applications of seaweed tonic.

ProPAgAtE by division or grow from

seed after Cowering. Divided plants

usually Cower in

two years while

seed-grown plants

take four to six.

tIP Wear gloves to

handle clivias, as

they contain low

levels of alkaloids

that irritate skin.

Scotts osmocote Multi PuPpose PottinMMix, $8 foP 25L. scLttsaustPalia.cLm.au

l1 trIM tHE SEED HEAD Ssing

secateSrs then remTve the berries.

tIP The ripe berry skin indicates the

fTwer cTlTSr, with red fTr Trange

and yellTw fTr white blTTms.

l2 rUB tHE BErrIES tT remTve the

feshy skin and reveal a nSmber Tf

pearl-like seeds with near transparent

skin that is alsT best remTved.

tIP Reject withered Tr very small seeds.

l3 PoSItIoN tHE SEEDS 30mm

apart in pTts Tf seed-raisinR mix.

PSsh the seeds dTwn sT a small area

shTws and water in. Sprinkle mix Tn

the seeds if they becTme expTsed.

YellLN vaPieties can be expensive,sL alNays buy in blLLm if yLu Nantclivias in a paPticulaP cLlLuP.

beRRieS

SeedS

beRRySkinS

Seed-RaiSingmix

Seed

SecaTeuRS

STalk

Picture(toP)adamwoodhamS
http://scottsaustralia.com.au

?

Mela4035

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126 NOVEMBER 2013 AAstralian Handyman

growingguide

full of beansGet seeds into the ground now for a bumper summer

harvest of fresh, sweet and crunchy pods

Easy to grow and tasty to eat,

beans are a top backyard crop.

Part of the legume family, these

podded vegies are a good source of

vitamins B and C, and fbre.

Fast growers, they provide

abundant fresh food for little work,

adding colour to the vegie patch when

in full Cower and laden with pods.

Late spring is the time to sow

seeds for a summer harvest but you

can grow beans all year in tropical

to subtropical regions and spring to

autumn in temperate to cool climates.

Beans are at their most tasty

and sweet right after picking, before

their natural sugars turn to starch.

Harvest pods when young to prevent

them getting tough and stringy.

TiP Beans freeze well and varieties

like kidney and haricot can be dried.

FrencH vs runner

Beans are divided into two main types

called French and runner. Both have

climbing and dwarf bush plants.

FrencH varieties include snap, string,

kidney, haricot, borlotti and more.

The pods range from long and

thin to full and fat in green, yellow,

purple and red, and the beans also

come in different colours.

runner or perennial beans grow

and produce all summer and autumn

then die down in winter when they go

dormant, emerging again in spring.

Most are climbers that feature

red Cowers and large seeds in green

pods. Certain types have white, pink

or multicoloured blooms.

TiP Runner beans are hardier than

French and better suited to cool areas.

Ideal for small gardens, runner beans take up little room if theyre grown on a tripod or wigwam. Plants tied loosely

when they are young will usually Ilimb naturally.

l1 PLAnT seedLings in spring

every 150mm in double rows

spaIed about 600mm apart.

l2 mAke A wigwAm by tying the

tops of bamboo Ianes with twine to

make triangles, adding a ridgepole.

l3 guide THe sTems up the Ianes

from inside the wigwam. Water

regularly in hot, dry weather.

Planting runner beans

seedlIng

rIdgePole

seedlIng

bamboocane

WIgWam

tWIne

Words ArTemis gouros


Ga

rd

en

Three bean salad with lemon and walnut dressingPreParation time 10 mins

Cooking time 7 mins

SerVeS 4

ingreDientS

8 thick baguette slices

2 tablespoons olive oil

Grated zest of 2 lemons, juGce of 1

3 tablespoons honey

1 clove garlGc, crushed

3 tablespoons walnut oGl

200g green beans

400g can red kGdney beans

400g can butter beans

l1 PreHeat tHe griLL to hot. Brush

the baguette slGces wGth half the olGve

oGl. Toast on the grGll pan for 2 mGnutes

or untGl golden. Turn and brush wGth the

remaGnGng oGl and toast for 2 mGnutes.

Cut Gnto croutons and set asGde to cool.

l2 to make tHe DreSSing, whGsk the

lemon zest and juGce, honey, garlGc and

walnut oGl Gn a large bowl. TrGm the

green beans then draGn the red kGdney

beans and butter beans.

l3 Put tHe green beanS Gn a pan.

Cover wGth boGlGng water and brGng back

to the boGl then sGmmer for 3 mGnutes or

untGl lGghtly cooked but stGll crunchy.

DraGn the beans, shake off the cookGng

water and toss Gn the dressGng.

l4 aDD tHe otHer beanS and toss

well. DGvGde the salad among four

bowls, scatter wGth croutons and spoon

over any remaGnGng dressGng to serve.

bean SaLaD

picture(top)GeTTyimaGes


How to growFrench and runner beans are frost

tender, warm-season crops. Dont

grow them where you have raised

beans or peas in the last few years.

Sow seeds 50mm deep in moist soil

with a pH of 5.5 to 7 in a sunny

position sheltered from wind.

Dig in well-rotted compost frst

then make a trench.

Space dwarf varieties every

200mm in staggered double

rows, and climbers 300mm apart.

Earth up the soil around the

stems of dwarf seedlings and give

climbers some support.

wAtEr regularly in hot weather to

prevent wilting. Increase water when

in Iower and the pods begin to swell,

making sure the soil never dries out.

MULCH seedlings by spreading organic

matter on top of the soil to retain

moisture and promote growth.

HArVESt from eight to 12 weeks

when the pods are 170mm or shorter,

so theyre young and tender.

Dwarf varieties crop for a shorter

period than climbers.

Picking beans regularly, two or

three times a week, encourages new

Iowers and more vegies.

wAtCH For slugs and snails, picking

them off the leaves of young plants.

Plants can suffer from fungal

diseases like bean rust. If leaves drop,

wither or yellow, and brown or red

spots appear on the foliage, pods and

stems, apply a fungicide.

tIP To prevent fungal issues, water

at ground level, rotate crops and

choose disease-resistant varieties.

Ga

rd

en

Harvesting seedsLet bean pods hang on a healthy

plant for as long as possible

before the risk of any autumn

frosts then pick and remove the

seeds from the pods.

Put them in a paper bag then

label and store it in an airtight

container in a cool place until

planting time next spring.

bEAn rUSt

MM FILheMgills runneM bean, aHIuL $4.mMfILheMgills.cIm.au

picturegettyimages
http://mrfothergills.com.au

November is the last

month of Spring, and your last opportunity

to get the garden ready for Summer.

In temperate and cool climates the next

few months might be very dry, so make

sure you keep your garden beds well

watered and mulched. Mulch will help

keep the soil moist, reduce evaporation,

and provide much needed organic

materials throughout the Summer. November is still a relatively mild month

in most areas, which provides an oppor-

tunity to get more Summer annuals

growing. Marigolds

begin blooming in

as little as 4 weeks,

and Mower right

through to Autumn.

Nasturtiums are

also fast growing,

produce attractive

Mowers, make

excellent ground covers, are known for

pest-repelling properties and you can

also eat their leaves and Mowers! November is also great for planting

more beans in fact varieties such as the

Snake Bean and Soybean need higher

soil temperatures and are

therefore best planted

after 1st November.

Chillies also prefer

higher soil temperatures

so sow their seeds directly in

the garden now.You can also

plant small fruited tomatoes that ripen

quickly. Other veggies you can continue

to plant in most areas include favourites

such as Lettuce, Capsicum, Eggplant,

Silverbeet, Pak Choi, Leek, Cucumber,

Zucchini, Pumpkin, Squash, Sweet Corn,

Carrot, Rocket and Beetroot.

choosing a variety

n French dwarf variety

n RoRnd pods Rp to 170mm long

n Disease resistant

n Rich favoRr

n French dwarf variety

n Red and green streaked pods

n Pick yoRng as a green bean

n Excellent for drying

n French climber

n Long pRrple pods to 180mm

nNeeds a tripod or canes

n HeavL bearer

n French dNarf varietL

n FleshL LelloN pods

n Good Lields

n FRll PavoRr

n Climbing rRnner bean

n Red-PoNering earlL varietL

n Large, bright green pods

n HeavL cropper that needs sRpport

australian+handyman

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