Q.
Hi Tui Team, I have some store bought kumara that I'd like to grow slips from and plant into the ground this spring. What is the most productive way to do this? Thanks, Kim.
A.
Let the kumara start sprouting, put it somewhere warm such as the hot water cupboard. The shoots should start forming roots as they get to 10cm long. Carefully remove the sprouted kumara and plant or divide the kumara into pieces with shoots attached.
Make sure you give them plenty of space to grow. Treat the area as you would for planting potatoes. A light dressing of Tui Superphosphate will help develop lovely big tubers, avoid putting too much nitrogen into the soil. Light soils are best for kumara.
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How do I grow store bought kumara? Comments
Can you tell me where i can purchase ailsa craig onion seefs or plants. Thank you.
Paul Dowers
I'm a bit confused. Your answer said to REMOVE THE SHOOTS then it said to plant the kumara with shoots attached.
Anne Sheard
Hi Anne, apologies for the confusion. We meant remove the sprouted kumara from the spot they are sprouting and then plant with the shoots still attached. Happy gardening, Tui Team
jenna
Kumara plants are hard to come by the only place I know you can buy them from is Kings Plant Barn, nothing @ Mitre 10, Bunnings do not have them either. I grow my own in a glass of water with tooth picks, they take about 5 weeks to grow then pick of and put them in water until more roots come away then plant out side. Do not forget to lift the leaves as they grow so they do not send down tap roots.
Guy Thorn
Hi Guy, keep an eye out for bundles of kumara plants from Awapuni Nurseries, they are usually available a bit later in the season as they need to be planted after frosts have passed.
Lianne
Hi Paul, this variety is not readily available in New Zealand, however if you search online there are a few options that pop up for purchasing. Happy gardening, Tui Team
jenna
regarding growing kumara - I suspect they need a warm climate and Southland is not suitable
Margaret Knowles
Hi Margaret, you are right, unless you have a light sandy soil and a sheltered sunny position that is frost free. Thanks, Tui Team
jenna
when is the beat time to prune lemon tree.thanks
Val
Hi Val, you can prune lemons now - avoid pruning in winter and in September/October as you run the risk of lemon borer laying eggs in fresh cuts. Prune if you need to for either a desired shape, to remove diseased stems or to improve air circulation. Leaves are the life of the tree, so don't cut unnecessarily, particularly before the tree has matured. Protect cuts with pruning paste or water based paint to seal the wound. All the best, Tui Team
jenna