6th August 2008

WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING?:

Some rain this week, more than we've had all winter, not enough though to dampen the spirits of Southland gardeners. Stil plenty of seed potatoes selling and the first of the veges for tunnelhouses we have good cabbage, cauli and broccoli plants, the lettuce is still small but strong. The polyanthus are looking at their best, great colour for this time of year. We have them as singles at $2each, $10 for 6, or we have them in groups of three, good for the back door step. New in store, gladioli bulbs, great selection of colours to plant anytime between now and christmas. They are like potatoes, all with different maturing times and flowering. Still plenty of lily bulbs also. Planted now they will flower around christmas time. There's still a few shallots and garlic bulbs for sale. We do sell them as plants in punettes. Aspargus crowns and yams are available too. The seed racks are full now, and they are being studied for the new season. We stock Yates, Macgregors, Niche for something different and Diacks own packs,for the best value @ ($2 a packet.) We also stock some of Kings seeds for the heritage varieties.

WHAT SHOULD YOU BE DOING?:

For the keen tomato growers who grow their own seedlings, it is time now to prick them out into Diacks Tomato mix to give them the best start. Broad Beans and Pea plants are ready to go in for an early crop. Buy seed potatoes and tray them up to sprout, you'll get a month head start. Buy your fruit trees now, we have had record sales and they may be in short supply.

THIS WEEKS SPECIAL:

20% off all New Zealand made zinc coated glasshouses and garden sheds, and yes we send nz wide. For the locals 30% off all display models.

Remember anyone requiring large amounts of top quality ornamental trees, now is your opportunity to purchase bareroot at the very best prices. Strictly first in, first served basis. Check out www.diacks.co.nz and follow the link on the main page for details.

THIS WEEKS PRODUCT:
Get your plants off to an early start with a 'Early start gro-tunnel'.
It's 4m long and 600mm wide, only $64.99.

SUPER SAVE PET DEPO
Cat sctrach poles from only $13.98.
Aqua one - aquarium reflector lights for above your tank, all complete with bulbs, all at heavily reduced prices.
Pet voyager 400 carry cage for dogs and small animals. Large size 66cm x 45cm x 43cm. These were $69.98, now only $39.98

Compare our prices, you'll be pleased you did.


PLANT OF THE WEEK COMPETITION:
Take a look at the plant attached below and if you recognise it e-mail us with your answer. If you are the first to guess correctly you will win!
Last weeks answer:Arbutus Unedo (strawberry tree)


RECIPE OF THE WEEK:

Spring Onion Pancake Recipe
Ingredients

* 1kg All purpose flour
* 1 tsp salt
* Water to mix (approx. 500ml)
* Half cup olive oil
* 1 1/2 cup chopped spring onions
* 1 cube of chicken stock
* Extra some salt

Directions

1. First make the dough by mixing the flour and salt then slowly pour in the water.
2. Mix untill it is soft and smooth but not sticky. Do not add too much water.
3. Let it sit for half and hour, cover with wet cloth.
4. After half an hour, knead the dough till soft. Divide dough to 8-10 seperate balls. Cover with wet cloth.
5. Coat lightly with flour, flatten and roll each ball till paper thin. It should roll out into a big round thin pancake.
6. Sprinkle some salt, chicken stock and spring onions on top of the dough. Make it even.
7. Add in the olive oil. (or cooking oil)
8. Roll up the pancake gently like a sausage roll.
9. Then roll again in a spiral movement round pancake.
10. Flatten the pancake with hand, then roll it with a rolling pin.
11. Heat the non-stick pan and fry the pancake. Turn in occasionaly.
12. When it is ready, it should turn golden brown.
13. **Do not add too much oli or it may spill out when you roll up the dough. Also if you like you may add in other ingredients but not too much. ie. Chillis for a spicy flavour

JOKE OF THE WEEK:
Q: What did the parrot say when it fell in love with a frog?
A: polly wants a croaker!!