Beans
Beans are so rewarding to grow. And if you give them the right conditions, they will happily grow in the garden or in large pots.
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This very versatile crop is a staple of many Pacific countries. Taro corms are white with a purple tint, nutty-tasting, starchy and easy to digest, making it a great substitute for potato.
The large heart-shaped green (sometimes purple) leaves are very attractive, but be careful to only consume the edible species: Colocasia esculenta. Taro leaves can be cooked as a nutritious vegetable.
How to grow taro in a garden
- Choose part shade spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Enrich with Yates Thrive Natural Blood & Bone with Seaweed.
- Plant the root piece out in 80 cm intervals, 5 cm deep. Cover lightly with Yates Black Magic Seed Raising Mix and water well.
- Water regularly. Feed weekly with Yates Thrive Natural Fish Seaweed+ Plant Food Concentrate.
- Harvest by digging the roots out in autumn.
How to grow taro in a pot
- Choose a pot at least 500 mm wide and deep and position in a bright or part shade spot. Fill with quality potting mix, such as Yates Premium Potting Mix.
- Plant the root piece out 1 per pot, 5 cm deep. Cover lightly with Yates Black Magic Seed Raising Mix and water well.
- Water regularly. Feed weekly with Yates Thrive Natural Fish Seaweed+ Plant Food Concentrate.
- Harvest by digging the roots out in autumn.
Growing tips
- CAUTION: Make certain to cook taro well before eating, as it contains toxic levels of calcium oxalate when raw. Thorough cooking neutralises the toxic compound and prevents stomach aches or mouth irritation.
- Handle taro with kitchen gloves as the sap can irritate skin.
- A boggy garden is a great spot to grow taro.
- Taro doesn't store well, so it's best to leave the roots in the soil until needed.
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Recommended products
Yates Thrive Natural Blood & Bone with Seaweed
A certified organic garden input boosted with NZ Seaweed to gently nourish plants, enrich the soil and encourage a strong healthy root system.
Yates Thrive Natural Fish & Seaweed+ Plant Food Concentrate
A complete plant food enriched with natural fish, seaweed, humates, molasses and more - boosted with NPK to improve plant and soil vitality.
Yates Black Magic Seed Raising Mix
Specially formulated for trouble-free seed raising in trays (or outdoor seed sowing direclty into the ground) and propagation of cuttings.
Yates Premium Potting Mix
A premium potting mix, ideal for all potted plants and shrubs, including ornamentals, fruit trees, vegies and herbs.
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