Who did this?
My Kowhai tree is showing the usual signs of an annual visitor with the tips of the tree void of leaves.
The visitor is the native Kowhai Moth Caterpillar, and it has been known to completely strip a Kowhai tree of all its foliage. Unless the tree is very young, in most cases there is little long-term damage to the tree. Nature is pretty awesome and the tree will soon produce masses of fresh new growth, but it might be a little unsightly for a few weeks.
Sometimes I will give the tree a good shake, and the little critters will just fall off and give the tree a reprieve. You can use neem oil if it’s proving to be a major problem, but don’t worry too much, Kowhai trees and the caterpillars have been living together for many years.
It’s Riddle Time! Beat the Neighbourhood with Your Smarts!
Which of the following words don't belong in the group and why?
CORSET, COSTER, SECTOR, ESCORT, COURTS
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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75.7% Yes
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22.9% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.