GARDEN ZONE
posts spaced approximately 6m apart . Leaders from granadilla vines can be loosely tied to stakes and trained up a string to reach the top wire . All side shoots should be removed , leaving the leaves intact . As the main leader grows , it should be wound loosely around the wire .
IMPORTANCE OF PRUNING
Pruning is an annual practice that promotes healthier growth and shapes the plants for better light and airflow , which helps prevent large populations of sucking insects . It encourages new shoots , ensuring a more compact and productive appearance by removing old , unproductive wood . In cooler climates or heavy soils , hard pruning should be approached with caution , as passion fruits are not particularly tolerant of it . Spring is the recommended time for pruning , as passion fruits begin to flower , and this timing is critical . As the weather warms , passion fruits exhibit heightened growth , making pruning in spring an ideal choice , especially in warmer regions . In colder areas , it ’ s advisable to proceed with care .
During the growing season , regularly remove emerging side shoots along the leader and trim back lateral shoots that obstruct the plant , being careful not to eliminate too many fruits . Pinching back ends as they approach the outer frame limits minimizes the need for extensive pruning the following spring .
Fruit Popsicles
Eating fruit popsicles is a great way to enjoy the summer , and they ’ re simple to make . You only need three ingredients , and if you like , you can add a bit of rum or vodka to make them softer .
Ingredients :
• 1 / 2 to 1 / 3 cup of sugar ( adjust to taste )
• 1 cup of fresh orange juice
• 2 cups of fresh granadilla pulp
• 2 Tbsp of vodka or white rum ( optional )
Begin by heating the orange juice and sugar until the sugar dissolves . Add the granadilla pulp and allow the mixture to cool , then refrigerate it . Stir in the vodka , and pour the stirred liquid into your popsicle melds . Insert the sticks , seal the mould , and freeze until the popsicles are solid and ready to be enjoyed .
67 MARKtoe ! November 2023