Unlike problem creeping grasses in the lawn, clumping and tufted grasses have the advantage of having restricted horizontal spread. However, after mowing they leave an obvious stub behind. In coarser species (such as Crowsfoot), this can create a trip hazard.

Early identification and swift action can prevent a serious problem developing. In small numbers, these grasses are relatively easy to dig out. However, clumping or tufted grass weeds usually spread freely from seed and quickly multiply. For this reason, it is particularly important to maintain a regular mowing schedule to prevent these grasses from heading (setting flowers and seed). If a headed tufted grass is to be removed or mowed, and if plant numbers are small, clip the head and seal it in a bag to avoid inadvertently re-seeding the area.

Topics covered are:

• Compacted Sites
• Shade Areas
• Prime Conditions

Weeds looked at are:

• Elastic Grass, Wire Grass (Eragrostis tenuifolia)
• Parramatta Grass (Dwarf), Rat's Tail Grass (Sporobolus africanus)
• Crowsfoot, Goosegrass (Eleusine indica)
• Winter Grass (Poa annua)
• Paspalum, Common Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum)

As you read this we will be heading into the 'Wet' with the warmest wettest months on their way. Early indicators suggest it will be another La Nina summer with higher than average rainfall and an increased likelihood of cyclones. October was unseasonally wet for northern parts of Queensland.

Many gardeners find these coming months trying – both physically, with heat and sweat – and emotionally, dealing with pests and various fungal and bacterial diseases. Often 'humidity' is blamed for all the woes, although this can be misleading and disempowering. The bigger picture is that tropical and subtropical areas generally have summer and autumn dominant rainfall during the warmer months of the year, whereas the southern areas of the country generally have winter and spring dominant rainfall.

The article looks at:

• Vegetable Garden
• Shadehouse
• Pond
• Annuals

Special information is also provided for:

• Vegetable planting schedule for Nov, Dec and Jan
  for subtropics and tropics
• Annual planting schedule for Nov, Dec and Jan