I have an 800 sq ft, North facing, tree-sheltered slope behind my house which I am trying to make look good. Last spring I planted an eclectic mix of shrubs - azaleas, bougainvilleas, privets, cycas, and many things I have no idea what they are. Last summer, much of the top soil was washed into the drains and I feel that the plants could now do with a boost - but I don't know what to give them.
My house generates large amounts of dogshit but I am told that it is not good fertiliser. What about those little pink packets that the hardware store sells? Any other suggestions? I would prefer to be organic.
Incidentally, there is in the garden what I think is a Fagrea fragrans (Tembusu, Urung). I have only seen this before in Singapore. It is a beautiful tree. Are there others here?
John.

You could try composting vegetable and fruit waste. Dog shit probably is too strong, and not a good iingredient unless you can temper it (which takes a long time, I have read).
The shops in Connaught Road West opposite Shun Tak Centre sell good organic fertiliser. Guano pellets get excellent results, they break down slowly, so you only need to apply a little every 6-8 weeks in the summer. Or try fish emulsion and dilute it according to the manufacturers instructions. But it's quite hard work if you have 800 square feet.

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Member of Hong Kong Gardening Society

Thank you, Jane! I will go looking in Connaught Road!
John.

If you get serious about composting, old leaves, even paper (no coloured ink) after it is put through a shredder will appeal to worms. Give it a try! It's free and eco-friendly.
Re your tree, I have been looking on the web, will check books another day. If you have a photo, that might help.

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Member of Hong Kong Gardening Society

You can find a picture of a famous old tembusu in the Botanic gardens on the back of the Singapore $5 note