Waihekepedia - User contributions [en]

Square foot gardening

2007-11-22T00:19:36Z

Bramley:

Ken Clark is now running workshops on the Square Foot Gardening method, as recently seen in the Waiheke Marketplace.

Phone: 372 5258 for booking a place at the next workshop . Square foot gardening kitsets are now available

Square Foot Gardening is a uniquely simplified method of gardening that produces 100% of the harvest in only 20% of the space -- AND -- without all the hard work and drudgery of single row gardening.

[[Image:Sfgplot.jpg]]

Requires very little space; 80% less than conventional gardening.
Can be done in as little as 4 feet by 4 feet, -- or as large as you want.
Your existing (bad) soil doesn't matter because we don't use it. Start with an ideal soil mix that is weed-free and requires no tilling.
Uses much less water; only about 20% compared to conventional gardening.
No fertilizers or pesticides to handle -- it's all natural
The planting method requires no thinning and very few seeds.
All the hard work has been removed in the Square Foot method - only the enjoyable part remains.
Can be started in any season.
Produces 5 times the harvest of a conventional garden.
Makes a great family project, all ages can participate - kids love to garden.

[[Image:Ken.jpg]]

Ken holds the first workshop at his Erua Rd property, the square foot garden can be seen in the middle of the group.
Photo:Waiheke Market Place/Megan Clark

Square Foot Gardening is a type of intensive gardening popularized by Mel Bartholemew. It is based on the idea that the wide rows in conventional home gardening are a waste of time, work, water and space, and that more quality vegetables can be grown in less space with less effort, no chemical additives, and on any type of ground, since the underlying soil is not used in the garden.

In this method, the garden space is divided into beds that are easily accessed from every side. A 4' x 4', 16 sq ft or 120cm x 120cm, 1.4m² garden is recommended for the first garden, and a path wide enough to comfortably work from should be made on each side of the bed, if possible, or if the bed must be accessed by reaching across it, a narrower one should be used so that no discomfort results from tending the garden. Each of the beds is divided into approximately one square foot units and marked out with sticks, twine, or sturdy slats to ensure that the square foot units remain visible as the garden matures.

[[Image:Garden.jpg]]

Multiple square foot gardens in full swing

Different seeds are planted in each square, to ensure a rational amount of each type of crop is grown, and to conserve seeds instead of overplanting, crowding and thinning plants. Common spacing is one plant per square for larger plants (broccoli, basil, etc.), four plants per square for medium large plants like lettuce, nine plants per square for medium-small plants like spinach, and sixteen per square for small plants such as onions and carrots. Plants that normally take up yards of space as runners, such as squash or cucumbers, are grown vertically on sturdy frames that are hung with netting or string to support the developing crops. Ones that grow deep underground, such as potatoes or carrots, are grown in a square foot section that has foot tall sides and a planting surface above the ground, so that a foot or more of framed soil depth is provided above the garden surface rather than below it.

[[Image:Tech.jpg]]

Graphic Illustration of what you can plant in the square foot grids

The beds are weeded and watered from the pathways, so the garden soil is never stepped on or compacted. Because a new soil mixture is used to create the garden, and a few handfuls of compost are added with each harvest to maintain soil fertility over time, the state of the site's underlying soil is irrelevant. This gardening method has been employed successfully in every region, including in deserts, on high arid mountain plateaus, in cramped city slums, and in areas with polluted or high salinity soils. It is equally useful for growing flowers, vegetables, herbs and some fruits in containers, raised beds, on tabletops or at ground level, in only 4 to 6 inches of soil. A few seeds per square foot, the ability to make compost, to water by hand, and to set up the initial garden in a sunny position or where a container, table or platform garden may be moved on wheels to receive light is all that is needed to set up a square foot garden.

[[Category:The environment]]
[[Category:Education]]

Beam & Sophie's "Ruff" Guide to Waiheke

2007-11-17T09:01:13Z

Bramley: /* Cafe’s and Bars */

[[Image:Beam-&-Soph-Beach.jpg]]

Beam and Sophie are best canine buddies, and proud residents of Waiheke. They have devoted their short but energetic lives to learning – sometimes the hard way – what’s hot, what’s not, and what’s just plain barking about a dog’s life on Waiheke Island. On this page, they present the results of their intensive research and testing, in a handy reference guide for all dogs and their owners. Whether you are a local, or just visiting, read on to get the lowdown on such pressing mutt matters as: The Best Waiheke Walkies. Toilet Etiquette for the Public Spirited Hound. Where to take your owner for a Latte, and of course that most vexatious of issues, taking a trip to the beach. So, relax, roll over, give your bum a lick and enjoy Beam & Sophie's "Ruff" Guide to Waiheke.

== Intro ==

First things first. Much as we like to think of ourselves as separate, and "special", Waiheke is, for better or worse, a part of Auckland City, and all of the same rules and regulations apply. Your dog(s) must be registered annually, and as of 2006 also micro-chipped. The ARC Bylaws covering exercising of dogs in public areas also apply here on the island and we cover them later in the section on walks. You can find all the nitty-gritty [http://www.animal-control.co.nz/aucklandcity.htm#rego here]. The island is a small place, and if you break the rules you will not only get busted (and the fines are heavy), you just give free ammunition to the small but vocal anti-dog lobby on the island, and make life that bit harder for the rest of the dog community. OK, lecture over. Let’s get down to the fun stuff...

== Transport ==

'''Ferries'''

Fullers, who operate the passenger service between Matiatia and Downtown Auckland are happy to welcome your dog aboard, although it must have its own ticket. The current one-way dog fare is $5, although if you join the Captain’s Club and buy a Monthly Pass (Currently $300) your dog travels “free”. It’s not immediately obvious, but be aware that dogs are not allowed in the inside areas, only on the outside decks. No great hardship in the summer months, but can get a bit challenging when those big winter Northerlies come blasting in. Like a few others, Sophie is a daily commuter, and therefore a seasoned Salty Sea Dog, and generally happy to snooze away the 35 minute trip. First time travellers tent to be a bit disconcerted when the ground starts moving around under their feet and can get distressed so be prepared to reassure and comfort them.
The car ferry between Kennedy Point, Waiheke and Half Moon Bay is operated by Sealink. Dogs are welcome aboard, although not inside the cabin, and travel free. The ferries are large, modern, and have plenty of spacious decks and outside seating. The crossing takes about 45 minutes.

'''Buses'''

Regrettably, Waiheke’s bus service is not dog friendly. You won’t be allowed to take your dog on the bus unless you can convince the driver that your furry friend is either A: A Guide Dog/Hearing Dog/Piano-Playing Dog etc. Or B: A zip-up pyjama case.

'''Taxis'''

So when you arrive at Matiatia, and having been turfed of the bus because your pyjama case bit the driver (see above), and faced with a two hour walk to Onetangi in the rain, what do you do? Well our advice is give Waiheke Quality Cabs a ring on 372 7000. The lady we spoke to said they are happy to carry dogs as long as they’re not dirty or vicious. Who? Us?

== Walks ==
Right. This is where the Meat and Potatoes are. The REALLY important stuff. There’s almost nothing better than a good walk. Come to think of it, if you’ve been knackered by the vet like us, there really ISN’T anything better than a good walk. But hey, are we bitter? Anyway, suffice to say, if we were on Mastermind – not likely we know – but if we were, THIS would be our specialist subject.

We’re not just running around out there for the fun of it you know. No, we are exhaustively testing the parameters. Exploring the boundaries. Pushing the outside of the envelope. We like to think of ourselves as doggie test pilots, hurtling fearlessly through the undergrowth, probing the edge of the unknown for the benefit of the species!

So here, we present the results of our labours. A work in progress, which we will continue to enlarge and improve over the coming months. Please remember, these are only our personal opinions, and are written from a dog’s eye view. What makes a great walk from a dog’s perspective and human one aren’t always the same, but hey, you’re welcome to tag along anyway. After all, someone has to pick up the pooh!

[[Image:Best-Mates.jpg]]

== Vets ==

The island’s Veterinary clinic is located at 2 Goodwin Ave, right next to The Little Oneroa Store. The surgery is small but well equipped, and the waiting room is always well stocked with a range of foods, supplements, pet accessories and toys. The resident Vets are John and Brian, both friendly, gentle, and with nice warm hands. Clinic hours are 9am-5pm on Weekdays, and 9am-11am on Saturdays. Phone 372 8484.

== Accommodation ==

== Cafe’s and Bars ==
Surprisingly for such a population explosion in the summer months, Waiheke's cafes are very dog friendly. They cater to our canine friends with large bowls of water and a shady umbrella to lie under. Beware - the water bowl at Cats Tango is not for human consumption, and says so on the outside, so if you need a cold one, head to the bar.

== Animal Control ==

In stark contrast with the Islands otherwise laid-back, live-and-let-live ethos, Waiheke Island Animal Control pursues its ends with what can only be described as gusto. Our experience has been that they are punitive, humourless and ruthlessly efficient. Our advice? Be Legal. Be Smart. Be Clean, and above all Be On The Lookout For A Big Green Land Rover.

== Dog Supplies ==

You can pick up the basic doggie essentials like biscuits and tinned food at most of the island’s general stores and service stations. The Foodtown supermarket in Ostend carries a decent range of dry and wet foods and dog-roll, as well as treats, toys, collars and leads. And while you’re there pick up a bag of their big, meaty dog bones! Waiheke Veterinarian Service & Pet Supplies in Goodwin Ave (next door to the Little Oneroa Store) carries a good stock of more specialist foods as well as bedding, clothing, accessories and just about everything for the well appointed dog.

== Dog Services ==
Ken & Lois Clark provide a dog minding service at their Erua Rd property. Small dogs, (bitches) preferred. Ph: 372 5258
[[Category:Animals]]

Beam & Sophie's "Ruff" Guide to Waiheke

2007-11-17T08:58:20Z

Bramley:

[[Image:Beam-&-Soph-Beach.jpg]]

Beam and Sophie are best canine buddies, and proud residents of Waiheke. They have devoted their short but energetic lives to learning – sometimes the hard way – what’s hot, what’s not, and what’s just plain barking about a dog’s life on Waiheke Island. On this page, they present the results of their intensive research and testing, in a handy reference guide for all dogs and their owners. Whether you are a local, or just visiting, read on to get the lowdown on such pressing mutt matters as: The Best Waiheke Walkies. Toilet Etiquette for the Public Spirited Hound. Where to take your owner for a Latte, and of course that most vexatious of issues, taking a trip to the beach. So, relax, roll over, give your bum a lick and enjoy Beam & Sophie's "Ruff" Guide to Waiheke.

== Intro ==

First things first. Much as we like to think of ourselves as separate, and "special", Waiheke is, for better or worse, a part of Auckland City, and all of the same rules and regulations apply. Your dog(s) must be registered annually, and as of 2006 also micro-chipped. The ARC Bylaws covering exercising of dogs in public areas also apply here on the island and we cover them later in the section on walks. You can find all the nitty-gritty [http://www.animal-control.co.nz/aucklandcity.htm#rego here]. The island is a small place, and if you break the rules you will not only get busted (and the fines are heavy), you just give free ammunition to the small but vocal anti-dog lobby on the island, and make life that bit harder for the rest of the dog community. OK, lecture over. Let’s get down to the fun stuff...

== Transport ==

'''Ferries'''

Fullers, who operate the passenger service between Matiatia and Downtown Auckland are happy to welcome your dog aboard, although it must have its own ticket. The current one-way dog fare is $5, although if you join the Captain’s Club and buy a Monthly Pass (Currently $300) your dog travels “free”. It’s not immediately obvious, but be aware that dogs are not allowed in the inside areas, only on the outside decks. No great hardship in the summer months, but can get a bit challenging when those big winter Northerlies come blasting in. Like a few others, Sophie is a daily commuter, and therefore a seasoned Salty Sea Dog, and generally happy to snooze away the 35 minute trip. First time travellers tent to be a bit disconcerted when the ground starts moving around under their feet and can get distressed so be prepared to reassure and comfort them.
The car ferry between Kennedy Point, Waiheke and Half Moon Bay is operated by Sealink. Dogs are welcome aboard, although not inside the cabin, and travel free. The ferries are large, modern, and have plenty of spacious decks and outside seating. The crossing takes about 45 minutes.

'''Buses'''

Regrettably, Waiheke’s bus service is not dog friendly. You won’t be allowed to take your dog on the bus unless you can convince the driver that your furry friend is either A: A Guide Dog/Hearing Dog/Piano-Playing Dog etc. Or B: A zip-up pyjama case.

'''Taxis'''

So when you arrive at Matiatia, and having been turfed of the bus because your pyjama case bit the driver (see above), and faced with a two hour walk to Onetangi in the rain, what do you do? Well our advice is give Waiheke Quality Cabs a ring on 372 7000. The lady we spoke to said they are happy to carry dogs as long as they’re not dirty or vicious. Who? Us?

== Walks ==
Right. This is where the Meat and Potatoes are. The REALLY important stuff. There’s almost nothing better than a good walk. Come to think of it, if you’ve been knackered by the vet like us, there really ISN’T anything better than a good walk. But hey, are we bitter? Anyway, suffice to say, if we were on Mastermind – not likely we know – but if we were, THIS would be our specialist subject.

We’re not just running around out there for the fun of it you know. No, we are exhaustively testing the parameters. Exploring the boundaries. Pushing the outside of the envelope. We like to think of ourselves as doggie test pilots, hurtling fearlessly through the undergrowth, probing the edge of the unknown for the benefit of the species!

So here, we present the results of our labours. A work in progress, which we will continue to enlarge and improve over the coming months. Please remember, these are only our personal opinions, and are written from a dog’s eye view. What makes a great walk from a dog’s perspective and human one aren’t always the same, but hey, you’re welcome to tag along anyway. After all, someone has to pick up the pooh!

[[Image:Best-Mates.jpg]]

== Vets ==

The island’s Veterinary clinic is located at 2 Goodwin Ave, right next to The Little Oneroa Store. The surgery is small but well equipped, and the waiting room is always well stocked with a range of foods, supplements, pet accessories and toys. The resident Vets are John and Brian, both friendly, gentle, and with nice warm hands. Clinic hours are 9am-5pm on Weekdays, and 9am-11am on Saturdays. Phone 372 8484.

== Accommodation ==

== Cafe’s and Bars ==

== Animal Control ==

In stark contrast with the Islands otherwise laid-back, live-and-let-live ethos, Waiheke Island Animal Control pursues its ends with what can only be described as gusto. Our experience has been that they are punitive, humourless and ruthlessly efficient. Our advice? Be Legal. Be Smart. Be Clean, and above all Be On The Lookout For A Big Green Land Rover.

== Dog Supplies ==

You can pick up the basic doggie essentials like biscuits and tinned food at most of the island’s general stores and service stations. The Foodtown supermarket in Ostend carries a decent range of dry and wet foods and dog-roll, as well as treats, toys, collars and leads. And while you’re there pick up a bag of their big, meaty dog bones! Waiheke Veterinarian Service & Pet Supplies in Goodwin Ave (next door to the Little Oneroa Store) carries a good stock of more specialist foods as well as bedding, clothing, accessories and just about everything for the well appointed dog.

== Dog Services ==
Ken & Lois Clark provide a dog minding service at their Erua Rd property. Small dogs, (bitches) preferred. Ph: 372 5258
[[Category:Animals]]

Square foot gardening

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:41:44Z

Bramley:

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:41:27Z

Bramley:

Ken Clark is now running workshops on the Square Foot Gardening method, as recently seen in the Waiheke Marketplace.

Phone372 5258 for booking a place at the next workshop

Square Foot Gardening is a uniquely simplified method of gardening that produces 100% of the harvest in only 20% of the space -- AND -- without all the hard work and drudgery of single row gardening.

[[Image:Sfgplot.jpg]]

Requires very little space; 80% less than conventional gardening.
Can be done in as little as 4 feet by 4 feet, -- or as large as you want.
Your existing (bad) soil doesn't matter because we don't use it. Start with an ideal soil mix that is weed-free and requires no tilling.
Uses much less water; only about 20% compared to conventional gardening.
No fertilizers or pesticides to handle -- it's all natural
The planting method requires no thinning and very few seeds.
All the hard work has been removed in the Square Foot method - only the enjoyable part remains.
Can be started in any season.
Produces 5 times the harvest of a conventional garden.
Can be done by those with physical or mental limitations. If getting down is a problem, raise the boxes to a wheelchair level.
Makes a great family project, all ages can participate - kids love to garden.

2007-11-14T01:37:55Z

Bramley:

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:36:48Z

Bramley:

Ken Clark is now running workshops on the Square Foot Gardening method, as recently seen in the Waiheke Marketplace.

Contact 372 5258 for booking a place at the next workshop

[[Image:Sfgplot.jpg]]

Requires very little space; 80% less than conventional gardening.
Can be done in as little as 4 feet by 4 feet, -- or as large as you want.
Your existing (bad) soil doesn't matter because we don't use it. Start with an ideal soil mix that is weed-free and requires no tilling.
Uses much less water; only about 20% compared to conventional gardening.
No fertilizers or pesticides to handle -- it's all natural
The planting method requires no thinning and very few seeds.
All the hard work has been removed in the Square Foot method - only the enjoyable part remains.
Can be started in any season.
Produces 5 times the harvest of a conventional garden.
Can be done by those with physical or mental limitations. If getting down is a problem, raise the boxes to a wheelchair level.
Makes a great family project, all ages can participate - kids love to garden.

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:36:04Z

Bramley:

Ken Clark is now running workshops on the Square Foot Gardening method, as recently seen in the Waiheke Marketplace.

Contact 372 5258 for booking a place at the next workshop

[[Image:Sfgplot.jpg]]

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:35:37Z

Bramley:

Ken Clark is now running workshops on the Square Foot Gardening method, as recently seen in the Waiheke Marketplace.

Contact 372 5258 for booking a place at the next workshop

Image:Sfgplot.jpg

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:28:03Z

Bramley:

Ken Clark is now running workshops on the Square Foot Gardening method, as recently seen in the Waiheke Marketplace.

Contact 372 5258 for booking a place at the next workshop

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:27:37Z

Bramley:

Square foot gardening

2007-11-14T01:26:33Z

Bramley:

Square Foot Gardening

Ken Clark is now running workshops on the Square Foot Gardening method, as recently seen in the Waiheke Marketplace.

Contact 372 5258 for booking a place at the next workshop

File:Sfgplot.jpg

2007-11-14T01:23:00Z

Bramley: Diagram of a Square Foot Garden

Diagram of a Square Foot Garden

Beam & Sophie's "Ruff" Guide to Waiheke

2007-11-14T01:13:49Z

Bramley: /* Dog Services */

[[Image:Beam-&-Soph-Beach.jpg]]

Beam and Sophie are best canine buddies, and proud residents of Waiheke. They have devoted their short but energetic lives to learning – sometimes the hard way – what’s hot, what’s not, and what’s just plain barking about a dog’s life on Waiheke Island. On this page, they present the results of their intensive research and testing, in a handy reference guide for all dogs and their owners. Whether you are a local, or just visiting, read on to get the lowdown on such pressing mutt matters as: The Best Waiheke Walkies. Toilet Etiquette for the Public Spirited Hound. Where to take your owner for a Latte, and of course that most vexatious of issues, taking a trip to the beach. So, relax, roll over, give your bum a lick and enjoy Beam & Sophie's "Ruff" Guide to Waiheke.

== Intro ==

First things first. Much as we like to think of ourselves as separate, and "special", Waiheke is, for better or worse, a part of Auckland City, and all of the same rules and regulations apply. Your dog(s) must be registered annually, and as of 2006 also micro-chipped. The ARC Bylaws covering exercising of dogs in public areas also apply here on the island and we cover them later in the section on walks. You can find all the nitty-gritty [http://www.animal-control.co.nz/aucklandcity.htm#rego here]. The island is a small place, and if you break the rules you will not only get busted (and the fines are heavy), you just give free ammunition to the small but vocal anti-dog lobby on the island, and make life that bit harder for the rest of the dog community. OK, lecture over. Let’s get down to the fun stuff...

== Transport ==

'''Ferries'''

Fullers, who operate the passenger service between Matiatia and Downtown Auckland are happy to welcome your dog aboard, although it must have its own ticket. The current one-way dog fare is $5, although if you join the Captain’s Club and buy a Monthly Pass (Currently $300) your dog travels “free”. It’s not immediately obvious, but be aware that dogs are not allowed in the inside areas, only on the outside decks. No great hardship in the summer months, but can get a bit challenging when those big winter Northerlies come blasting in. Like a few others, Sophie is a daily commuter, and therefore a seasoned Salty Sea Dog, and generally happy to snooze away the 35 minute trip. First time travellers tent to be a bit disconcerted when the ground starts moving around under their feet and can get distressed so be prepared to reassure and comfort them.
The car ferry between Kennedy Point, Waiheke and Half Moon Bay is operated by Sealink. Dogs are welcome aboard, although not inside the cabin, and travel free. The ferries are large, modern, and have plenty of spacious decks and outside seating. The crossing takes about 45 minutes.

'''Buses'''

Regrettably, Waiheke’s bus service is not dog friendly. You won’t be allowed to take your dog on the bus unless you can convince the driver that your furry friend is either A: A Guide Dog/Hearing Dog/Piano-Playing Dog etc. Or B: A zip-up pyjama case.

'''Taxis'''

So when you arrive at Matiatia, and having been turfed of the bus because your pyjama case bit the driver (see above), and faced with a two hour walk to Onetangi in the rain, what do you do? Well our advice is give Waiheke Quality Cabs a ring on 372 7000. The lady we spoke to said they are happy to carry dogs as long as they’re not dirty or vicious. Who? Us?

== Walks ==
Right. This is where the Meat and Potatoes are. The REALLY important stuff. There’s almost nothing better than a good walk. Come to think of it, if you’ve been knackered by the vet like us, there really ISN’T anything better than a good walk. But hey, are we bitter? Anyway, suffice to say, if we were on Mastermind – not likely we know – but if we were, THIS would be our specialist subject.

We’re not just running around out there for the fun of it you know. No, we are exhaustively testing the parameters. Exploring the boundaries. Pushing the outside of the envelope. We like to think of ourselves as doggie test pilots, hurtling fearlessly through the undergrowth, probing the edge of the unknown for the benefit of the species!

So here, we present the results of our labours. A work in progress, which we will continue to enlarge and improve over the coming months. Please remember, these are only our personal opinions, and are written from a dog’s eye view. What makes a great walk from a dog’s perspective and human one aren’t always the same, but hey, you’re welcome to tag along anyway. After all, someone has to pick up the pooh!

[[Image:Best-Mates.jpg]]

== Vets ==

The island’s Veterinary clinic is located at 2 Goodwin Ave, right next to The Little Oneroa Store. The surgery is small but well equipped, and the waiting room is always well stocked with a range of foods, supplements, pet accessories and toys. The resident Vets are John and Brian, both friendly, gentle, and with nice warm hands. Clinic hours are 9am-5pm on Weekdays, and 9am-11am on Saturdays. Phone 372 8484.

== Accommodation ==

== Cafe’s and Bars ==

== Animal Control ==

In stark contrast with the Islands otherwise laid-back, live-and-let-live ethos, Waiheke Island Animal Control pursues its ends with what can only be described as gusto. Our experience has been that they are punitive, humourless and ruthlessly efficient. Our advice? Be Legal. Be Smart. Be Clean, and above all Be On The Lookout For A Big Green Land Rover.

== Dog Supplies ==

You can pick up the basic doggie essentials like biscuits and tinned food at most of the island’s general stores and service stations. The Foodtown supermarket in Ostend carries a decent range of dry and wet foods and dog-roll, as well as treats, toys, collars and leads. And while you’re there pick up a bag of their big, meaty dog bones! Waiheke Veterinarian Service & Pet Supplies in Goodwin Ave (next door to the Little Oneroa Store) carries a good stock of more specialist foods as well as bedding, clothing, accessories and just about everything for the well appointed dog.

== Dog Services ==
Ken & Lois Clark provide a dog minding service at their Tahi Rd property. Ph 372 5258 for pricing and times

[[Category:Animals]]