dragonfly feasting on a bee

 Dragonflies are under the "helper" category, but unfortunately, their diet also includes other helpers...

regular checks of equipment is a must

Things eventually give way, so regular checks are necessary to avoid major problems. Take this for example...

These hoses connect the pump in the pond to the external filter, and back from the filter to the pond. This one has split due to age, and the only thing keeping the water in is a layer of algae. 

If the hose from the pump in the pond to the external filter had split, it would have been catastrophic as the pump sits at the bottom of the pond. It would have drained out most of the water. I have placed the pump slightly elevated on a brick to lessen the problem in the event it does happen.

balancing act

Banana tree #5 doesnt have any earth supporting it on one side. It looks like it grew on top of an older plant. I hope it doesnt topple as it grows bigger and starts to lean.

The bare earth part is where the dog has in the past scratched around.

Trying coriander for the umpteenth time

 Every time we buy coriander from the market, it comes with the roots intact. But I've tried putting it in the ground, in water, in the sun, in shade.... nothing works. Neighbour just gave me seedling of a shorter variety.

Ill keep them under the net in a bit of shade for a couple of days, before moving them out to a sunnier spot.

This is hers growing quite well...

sickest looking plant giving the most chilis

Out of the 3 plants I have, 2 of them have more yellow than green leaves. But they are producing more chilis!! 

lactuca indica aka Indian lettuce

 Found out the name of 2 of my leafy greens...they are variations of lactuca indica.

Turning red

 The chilis are ripening! starting to change colour...

What a joy to see this!!

Oh no! From a high to a low almost immediately... I spotted one on the ground :( 

It must have dropped yesterday coz the side touching the ground was already damaged.

I was hoping to let it ripen fully on the plant but I think I will harvest now as soon as I see it changing colour. Will leave the 2 on the plant till tomorrow. Pray they are ok till I pluck them tomorrow.

btw this is a really goood/clear video on how to pluck chilis...