SEPTECBER 2023 SEPTECBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA TV SHOW GA FRIDAY 7.30PM RD • CEET THE ‘LECA QUEEN’ • AN INNER-PERTH LOFT FILLED WITH PLANTS • GARDENING WITH INDIGENOUS PLANTS • CAKE A TOCATO FRACE 9 312966 128997 0 9 ONLY $7.99 A MELBOURNE GARDEN where Aussie natives meet Japanese design SCALL TREES WITH BIG ICPACT GO WILD! GO WILD! explore WA' s WILDFLOWERS grow your own CELERY AVOCADOS STUNNING SERRURIAS & GROW THEM TOO! LOW-COST, EASY IDEAS REFRESH YOUR SPRING GARDEN LOW-COST EASY IDEAS SPRING GARDEN REFRESH YOUR LOW-COST, EASY IDEAS REFRESH YOUR SPRING GARDEN REFRESH YOUR to
SINCE 1978 The home of heirloom seeds For over 30 years, The Diggers Clcb has been championing the preservation and promotion of heirloom seeds. As commercial seed companies across the world concentrated on new and ‘improved’ hybrid varieties, many old favocrites that had been passed down from generation to generation were lost forever. Back in 1992, we partnered with Seed Savers Exchange in the U.S. and with donations and scpport from members, began trialling and testing heirloom seeds. Soon after, the first tomato taste test was held at Heronswood, the home of The Diggers Clcb, following a trial of 112 varieties. An heirloom seed movement was born, aimed at halting the loss of these ccltcral treascres so we cocld all enjoy the colocrs, flavocrs and stories of ocr global food heritage. We rcn regclar trials on ocr seeds and if they stand cp to ocr tests, we pct these heirlooms back into prodcction so we can share them with ocr members. Join today and be part of ocr movement, plcs receive the perks of being a member too! Membership scpports ocr charitable work throcgh The Diggers Focndation
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GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 5 EDITOR’S LETTER SUBSCRIPTIONS 1300 361 146 EMAIL [email protected] MAGAZINE EDITORIAL (02) 9901 6325 TV SHOW (03) 8646 2875 facebook.com/ ABCGardeningAustraliamagazine @gardeningaustraliamag S SOCIAL MEDIA TAY IN TOUCH H ow gorgeous are the colourful, native everlastings featured on our cover? Every spring, I hear travel tales and see Insta posts by plant-y friends who’ve made the pilgrimage to see Western Australia’s famed wildfl ower displays. And every spring, I vow to see them in the fl esh myself, one day. I’ve been lucky enough to visit WA a few times, and I’ve travelled from Albany to Broome, but I’ve never been there for these springtime explosions. If, like me, you’re fascinated by these kaleidoscopic fi elds of colour, you can take a vicarious journey by reading our feature story, ‘Walk on the Wild Side’, by Perth-based garden writer Deryn Thorpe, starting on page 20. And if you’re keen, you could always try planting a mini meadow of everlastings in your own garden. We profi le a spectrum of gardeners and plant passions this issue. In Melbourne/Naarm, Jenny Deyzel has created a chameleon of a garden, with a Japanese-style design at the front morphing into a display of Australian natives at the rear. It’s a surprise package, skilfully blended – who knew that an ironbark tree surrounded by native shrubs could take on a ‘zen’ appearance? See the beautiful results on page 38. In Queensland, we stroll through Elaine Armstrong’s art-laden garden, where decades-old wisterias erupt at this time of year, sending clouds of purple through this ever-evolving space where revegetation and natives are now prioritised (page 46). In Perth/Boorloo, we visit the inner-city loft apartment of Drew and Nicole, two plant fanatics who are passionate about biophilic design and its positive impact on wellness (page 50). And back in Melbourne, we hear from Nora Mutalima, ‘The Leca Queen’, who demystifi es the world of growing plants in balls of clay (page 56). How lovely it is to fi nally welcome spring. It’s a time of buds, blooms and much-anticipated growth, which also means planting, sowing, fertilising, feeding, mulching… and myriad other jobs. Exciting times! For tips on keeping things under control in the vegie garden, turn to ‘In the Patch’ (page 68), and for gardening advice and quick fi xes that don’t cost the earth, see our Planner section (page 77). And when you need a break from all those jobs, sit with a cuppa and enjoy the colourful images of this issue. Our art director, Rachel – pic searcher extraordinaire – has found some crackers. One of my favourites is the double-page spread showing a sea of everlastings dissected by a red-dirt road in WA’s Mid West. Which brings me back to those wildfl owers. Can’t wait to see them myself – one day. Until next month, happy gardening. welcome Elizabeth Wilson PHOTO KATHERINE WILSON @KATHERINEWILSONPHOTOGRAPHY
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 7 PHOTOS VIRGINIA CUMMINS, ISTOCK SEPTEMBER 2023 CONTENTS For all your top jobs in the garden this month, turn to page 77 38 Everlastings are just some of the wildfl owers on show right now in Western Australia (see page 20). Photo: Shutterstock COVER STORIES 20 Go wild! Explore WA’s wildfl owers & grow them too! 28 Small trees with big impact 34 Stunning serrurias 38 A Melbourne garden: Aussie natives meet Japanese design 50 A Perth loft fi lled with plants 56 Meet the ‘Leca Queen’ 60 Garden with indigenous plants 64 Avocados 70 Celery 74 Make a tomato frame 77 Low-cost, easy ideas to refresh your spring garden ON T H E COVER 64 COMPETITIONS + READER OFFERS 66 Subscribe now to receive a bonus diary or calendar valued at $19.99! 88 Solve the crossword for your chance to win one of two Wolf-Garten Trimming Packs, valued at $163 each
8 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA PHOTOS BARTINA GPBBOLA, ALABY, ISTOCK, ROBPRT FRITH/ACORN PHOTO, TOURISB WPSTPRN AUSTRALIA, DIVYA GORDON FEATURES 20 Walk on the wild side It’s wildfl ower season in Western Australia – here’s your guide to seeing the-, plus how to grow your own! 28 Little wonders These spring-bloo-ing trees are great for s-all gardens and courtyards 34 Sweet serruria Spectacular bloo-s adorn this s-all, unique shrub in winter and spring 38 Garden of memories A -eaningful -ix of Japanese design and Aussie natives defi nes a fa-ily’s exquisite garden in Kew, Melbourne 46 Art + soul This colourful garden in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hinterland has been created with a delightful artistic fl air 50 Bodern family A Perth couple with a passion for plants has created an urban jungle in their three-level loft apart-ent 56 Queen of clay In her -ission to grow happy and healthy indoor plants, this green thu-b found an intriguing solution 60 Local heroes Here’s why you should grow local indigenous plants in your garden SEPTEMBER 56 11 70 28 50 20 ABC Gardening Australia magazine acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and traditional custodians of the lands where we live and work. REGULARS 11 News For gardeners and nature lovers 16 Barketplace Plants and books 64 At home with Jackie The secret to growing avocados in any cli-ate 68 In the patch • Ti-ed tasks for your edible garden • Sow & plant chart for Septe-ber • How to grow crunchy celery • What’s the difference between seaweed extract and other fertilisers? • Control sap-sucking aphids • Make your own to-ato fra-e 76 TV & radio guide Your ABC 77 Your planner Jobs for this -onth 86 Bailbox Your letters, photos and questions 88 Crossword 91 The directory 98 The big picture
NEWS 10 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA EDITOR Elizabeth Wilson HORTICULTURAL EDITOR AB Bishop ART DIRECTOR Rachel Henderson CHIEF SUBEDITOR Sofi a Charalambous SUBEDITORS Gina Hetherington, Kirsten Wilkins-Holloway DIGITAL EDITOR Loren Desbruslais EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Carole Gridley ABC TV HOST Costa Georgiadis PRESENTERS Josh Byrne, Jerry Coleby-Williams, Jane Edmanson, Tammy Huynh, Hannah Moloney, Millie Ross, Clarence Slockee, Sophie Thomson CONTRIBUTORS Steve Ball, Virginia Cummins, Phil Dudman, Steve Falcioni, Sally Feldman, Jackie French, Robert Frith, Martina Gemmola, Judy Horton, Anna Hutchcroft, Michael McCoy, Chris Pearson, Tamarah Pienaar, Martyn Robinson, Amelia Stanwix, Deryn Thorpe, Phillip Withers, Kim Woods Rabbidge ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Anabel Tweedale, [email protected] Phone (02) 9901 6371 ADVERTISING SALES Donna McIlwaine, [email protected] Phone (02) 9901 6384 Bronte Worner, [email protected] Phone (02) 9901 6128 Annya Azzopardi, [email protected] Phone (02) 9901 6320 PRODUCTION MANAGER Peter Ryman PRODUCTION AND DIGITAL SERVICES MANAGER Jonathan Bishop EXECUTIVE PRODUCER ABC TV Gill Lomas HEAD PUBLISHING AND LICENSING ABC COMMERCIAL Lisa Hunter MAGAZINES MANAGER ABC COMMERCIAL Jenni Powell SUBSCRIPTION SALES AND ENQUIRIES 1300 361 146, gardeningaustralia.com.au EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES [email protected] Phone (02) 9901 6325 NEXTMEDIA PTY LTD Locked Bag 5555, St Leonards NSW 1590 Phone (02) 9901 6100 GM CONSUMER PUBLISHING Carole Jones MANAGING DIRECTOR Arek Widawski ISSN: 1325-1465 ABC Gardening Australia magazine is published by nextmedia Pty Ltd (ACN 128 805 970) under licence from the publisher, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), and is subject to copyright in its entirety. ‘ABC’ and the ‘Wave’ and ‘Gardening Australia’ trademarks are used under licence from the ABC. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or part, without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication unless specifi ed otherwise. All letters and other material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled not for publication. nextmedia and the publisher do not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, submitted material. Opinions expressed in ABC Gardening Australia magazine are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of nextmedia or the publisher. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited material. No liability is accepted by nextmedia, the publisher, nor the authors for any information contained herein. All endeavours are made to ensure accuracy and veracity of all content and advice herein, but neither ABC Gardening Australia magazine nor its publisher or contributors is responsible for damage or harm, of whatever description, resulting from persons undertaking any advice or using any product mentioned or advertised in ABC Gardening Australia magazine or its website. PRIVACY POLICY We value the integrity of your personal information. If you provide personal information through your participation in any competitions, surveys or offers featured in this issue of ABC Gardening Australia magazine, this will be used to provide the products or services that you have requested and to improve the content of our magazines. Your details may be provided to third parties who assist us in this purpose. In the event of organisations providing prizes or offers to our readers, we may pass your details on to them. From time to time, we may use the information you provide us to inform you of other products, services and events our company has to offer. We may also give your information to other organisations, which may use it to inform you about their products, services and events, unless you tell us not to do so. You are welcome to access the information we hold about you by getting in touch with our privacy offi cer, who can be contacted at nextmedia, Locked Bag 5555, St Leonards, NSW 1590. A fine pedigree of lavender breeding featuring super–sized flower wings and masses of flower that create a right royal display. ‘THE QUEEN’ To explore the world of LAVINNOVA®, scan the QR code or visit lavinnova.com.au ‘THE PRINCESS’
PHOTO GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 11 September News and happenings for gardeners and nature lovers TEXT SALLY FELDMAN PHOTO DIVYA GORDON YOUNG GREEN THUMBS Calling all kids (and kids at heart)! ABC TV is launching a new series called Gardening Australia Junior on September 8. A spin-off of the regular show, the series will be hosted by four famililar faces – Costa Georgiadis, Hannah Moloney, Tammy Huynh and Clarence Slockee – alongside a team of young gardening enthusiasts. The first series comprises 20 episodes, each 11 minutes long, with green-thumbed kids exploring topics such as kitchen gardens, bee hotels, compost and worm farming. Costa is seen here with young co-presenters Jett Laveta-Iliev (left) and Kiki Wales (right). Find it on ABC Kids and ABC iview See the first episode of Gardening Australia Junior on Friday, September 8 at 7.05pm on ABC Kids
12 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA bandicoot havens For the past five years, NRM North, which is charged with the management of natural resources in northern Tasmania, has been collaborating with farmers and community groups to create safe habitats for a highly photogenic threatened species, the eastern barred bandicoot (EBB to its friends). More than 120ha of priority EBB habitat has been transformed into EBB heaven in the West Tamar and Northern Midlands regions, and NRM North has funded a number of ‘urban refuges’ in domestic gardens. The organisation has also released a beautifully illustrated free handbook, Urban Refuges, with information on creating a bandicoot-friendly space, plants to use, and landscape designs that will encourage these delightful creatures into the garden. Download the book at nrmnorth.org.au, or call (03) 6333 7777 for a print copy HELLO YELLOW On Sunday August 27, Hurstbridge, in Melbourne’s north-east, will be alive with colour, movement (heritage steam train rides and vintage cars), live music, market stalls and more to welcome in spring at the annual Wattle Festival. To add to the visual feast of wattle blossom, the town’s yarn-bombing group will festoon the trees with more than 500 yellow pompoms and other knitted embellishments. The festival runs 10am–4pm – more than enough time to indulge in the CWA’s legendary Devonshire teas at Hurstbridge Primary School. wattlefestival.org.au NEWS TOTALLY COOL Every year, Gardening Australia presenter Sophie Thomson struts her stuff at the Royal Adelaide Show, creating a show garden that reflects her passions – a biodiverse backyard habitat, perhaps, or a nature-play haven for kids. At this year’s show (September 2–10), she’s going ‘cool’, creating a garden that both counters the ‘urban heat island’ effect of our concrete jungles, and taps into the huge interest in gardening shown by the cool younger crowd. Her ‘Cool’ garden combines shade trees, a green wall, a vine-covered pergola, a vegie patch, chooks and a native verge. sophiespatch.com.au, theshow.com.au PHOTOS ISTOCK, TM BOURKE PHOTOGRAHY
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spring welcome Open Gardens Victoria (OGV) kicks off its spring season over the weekend of September 43–44 at Parnham Farm on the Mornington Peninsula. This rambling garden (left) by landscape designer Vassily Skinner features wetlands, a dam and more than 400 native and exotic plant species. OGV has a bumper crop of garden openings planned for the coming months, in locations ranging from the Western District to the Bellarine Peninsula and suburban Melbourne. opengardensvictoria.org.au A MONTH OF FUN DAYS Spanning the whole month of September, southern Queensland’s Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is a whirlwind of events and exhibits, from fabulous floral displays and tours of private gardens participating in The Chronicle’s Garden Competition, to the Festival of Food & Wine, outdoor concerts and a twilight market. You can even get a bird’s-eye view of Queens Park and Botanic Gardens in full bloom from the Ferris Wheel – no wonder it’s called the Garden City. tcof.com.au NEWS GIANT STEPS Ten years ago, members of the School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University in Sydney set up a not-for-profit environmental education project called Habitat Stepping Stones. Its aim – to encourage Australians to create ‘wildlife stopovers’ in their backyards, on balconies, or wherever they had a smidgeon of outdoor space. Since its launch in Ku-ring-gai Council, this award-winning biodiversity project has grown to encompass 17 more councils across the country, with homes, businesses and community groups all pitching in, using information from the program’s experts about plants specific to their locales. To participate, visit habitatsteppingstones.org.au GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 15 PHOTOS MITCH LYONS, REBECCA CAMERON
MARKETPLACE 16 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA PLANTS From a rare shrub, to sensational salad vegies and a black spot-busting rose, it’s time to treat yourself! LoversgofgthegSouthgAfricang Proteaceaegfamilygwillgbegg racinggtoggetgtheirghandsgg ongthegraregandgbeautifulgg Mimetes hottentoticus ‘Crackerjack Silver’.gIngitsg naturalghabitat,gthisgcriticallyg endangeredgshrubgisglimitedgg togangareagofgaboutg5km2 ,g highgongthegsteep,g cloud-shroudedgslopesg ofgthegKogelbergg Ranges,gaboutg70kmg southgofgCapegTown.gIt’sg nowgavailablegingAustralia,g wheregit’sgmostglikelygtoggrowg (albeitgslowly)gtogitsg1mgxg1mg potentialgingagfullgsungposition,g plantedgingfree-draininggacidicgg soilgorgnativegpottinggmix,gwithg minimalgwatering.gYoug–gandgallgg yourgnectar-feedinggfriendsg–gg willgbegrewardedgbygagsummerg extravaganzagofgblack-tippedg flame-redgandgcreamgflowers,gg whichgappeargatgthegendsgofgg long,gsturdygstemsgofgdownyg silver-greengleaves. proteaflora.com.au Spring has sprung, which means it’s time to plant some seeds! First up, and all the way from Mexico and Central )merica, is the cucamelong(above), aka the Mexican sour gherkin (Melothria scabra). Sow in a sunny, well-drained spot and this perennial climber will thrive, as will your summer salad repertoire in three months when you harvest the grape-sized fruits. They look like tiny watermelons and taste like cucumber with a squeeze of lime. Pair these in a bowl with ParisgMarketg carrotsg(above centre), an heirloom TEXTgSALLYgFELDMANggPHOTOgISTOCK Whilegthegdescriptorg‘blackgspotg buster’gdoesn’tgexactlygconjuregg upgromanticgvisionsgofgaggorgeous,g highlygscentedgrose,gitgisgagcomfortingg indicationgthatg‘Brindabella Cameo’ willgholdgitsgowngagainstgthatgdreadedg enemy.gOvergthegcoursegofgfivegyearsg ofgtesting,gthisgnewgrose,gbredgbyg JohngandgSylviagGraygingToowoomba,g Queensland,ghasgnevergbeengattackedg bygblackgspotgorgmildew,gsogeveng gardenersgingareasgofgheatgandghighg humiditygcangenjoygit.gThisgcompact,g bushygshrubgroseggrowsgtog1.2mghighg andgwide,gandgproducesgstronglyg perfumedgdoublegwhitegflowersg tingedgwithgagdelicategpinkgblush. brindabella-gardens.com.au
WHEN GRIFFITH SPRINGS TO LIFE GRIFFITHSPRINGFEST.COM.AU Taste the culture of Griffith with an abundance of entertainment and experiences to enjoy during Griffith Spring Fest. French variety that produces sweet-tasting little orange globes, which are less fussy about their soil conditions than some of their longer, pointier counterparts. Finally, meet the Shimmer tomato (above right), an indeterminate variety that produces red almond-shaped fruit streaked with green-to-bronze markings. Sized somewhere between a cherry and a plum tomato, these, too, will add a touch of je ne sais quoi to your salad bowl. mrfothergills.com.au LEFT TO RIGHT Sow seed of these this month, for colourful additions to summer salads: cucamelons; Paris Market carrots; Shimmer tomatoes.
18 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA NATURE UNMASKED Stephen Platt Self-published This keenly cbserved and detailed bcck explcres hcw living things ccnnect with their envircnments and each cther. While the fccus is cn Victcrian fl cra and fauna, many cf the plants and animals discussed are fcund elsewhere, and the general infcrmaticn abcut fi re, hcllcws, wetlands and geclcgy is relevant and fascinating tc anycne whc has an interest in nature. Find cut why scme plants never seem tc fl cwer, cr why a tree is the shape it is, as well as answers tc many cther questicns abcut cur natural envircnments and gardens. Dcwnlcad a free digital versicn via Nature Unmasked (silverfcxyes.wixsite.ccm/nature), cr tc purchase a printed ccpy cf the bcck, email [email protected]. THE COMPOST COACH Kate Flood Murdoch Books This is a beautiful, detailed and well-crganised guide tc everything abcut ccmpcsting by authcr Kate Flccd, a self-described ccmpcst nerd and sustainability educatcr. Her bcck is packed with the what, why and hcw cf ccmpcsting tc make it easy and attainable fcr all. She assesses the many ccmpcst kit variaticns tc fi nd the right cne fcr ycur hcme, lccks at wcrms and cther ccmpcst creatures, prcvides infcrmaticn abcut scil and its immense value, and explains simple regenerative gardening methcds that anycne can use. There are alsc Q&As with ccmpcsting champicns Ccsta Gecrgiadis, Hannah Mclcney, Charles Dcwding and Alessandrc Vitale. This is a valuable rescurce fcr anycne whc cccks, eats and cares abcut cur envircnment. NATURESCAPES Phillip Withers & AB Bishop Photography by Amelia Stanwix fi ames & Hudson Australia In this gcrgecusly phctcgraphed bcck, landscape designer Phillip Withers and habitat expert AB Bishcp (cur very cwn hcrticultural editcr) advccate fcr ‘thinking lccal’ when it ccmes tc garden design. This bcck celebrates the pctential fcr creating beautiful naturalistic gardens that meld with their lccal envircnments – helping plants, animals and pecple thrive within spaces that tread lightly upcn the earth. Included are inspiring examples cf naturalistic gardens, as well as detailed guidance cn plant selecticn, landscaping, scil maintenance, paths, habitat fcr wildlife and micrcclimates. For more, see our book extract on page 60. BOOKS cther questicns abcut cur natural envircnments and gardens. Dcwnlcad a free TEXT CAROLE GRIDLEY MARKETPLACE ALIGHT Sam Lloyd Illustrations by Samantha Metcalfe CSIRO Publishing Subtitled A Story of Fire and Nature, this engagingly written and charmingly illustrated children’s bcck gently explcres hcw planned, ccntrclled fi re is a necessary element cf Australia’s eccsystems. The stcry shcws hcw scme fl cra and fauna can survive the challenges cf a fi re and benefi t frcm pcst-fi re ccnditicns, such as Christmas bells, which grcw beautiful new fl cwers with the help cf fi re, and the wallum banksia, which needs fi re tc cpen its wccdy seed capsules. The bcck alsc includes many facts abcut fi re in the Australian bush. Reccmmended fcr ages six tc nine. Teacher Nctes can be dcwnlcaded frcm CSIRO Publishing: publish. csirc.au/bcck/8045/#fcrteachers
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WA WILDFLOWERS 20 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 21 PHOTO WA WILDFLOWERS wildSIDE WALK ON THE From June to November, Western Australia becomes a tapestry of colour as different regions take turns to burst into bloom. Here, Perth-based DERYN THORPE provides insights on where and when to visit during wildflower season PHOTO TOURISM WESTERN AUSTRALIA A sea of pink everlastings (Schoenia cassiniana) covers the red earth near Morawa, in Western Australia’s Mid West region, north of Perth.
E cbarking on a wildflower tour is a plant lover’s dreac and coces with great excitecent and expectation. It can be an ecotional experience too: I’ve welled up seeing fields of delicate everlasting daisies stretching as far as the eye can see, and then whooped with triucph upon discovering tiny native orchids while stucbling through bushland. The first tice I saw colourful wreath lechenaultia (Lechenaultia macrantha) dotted haphazardly in rich red ochre sands on the roadside, I burst into tears at the unexpected beauty of the landscape. Western Australia is hoce to core than 12,000 wildflower species, and around 60 per cent of the flowers don’t grow naturally anywhere else in the world. The wildflowers can be found over a huge geographic area that covers thousands of kilocetres, froc the Pilbara region in the north, sweeping through to Ravensthorpe in the south. Bloocing occurs in different regions between June and Novecber, and in all regions the flower display is cost prolific after abundant rain. The first bloocs appear in the warcer north, with later bloocing (August to October) occurring in the Mediterranean-like south. A wildflower trip is an extraordinary adventure, but it’s best to plan ahead to cake the cost of the opportunity. If you’re landing in Perth and have licited tice to spare, I recoccend starting at Kings Park and Botanic Garden in the city, before driving to the Mid West inland areas (around 450kc north of Perth) to see fields of everlastings. Aic to incorporate a visit to the town of Pindar for the beautiful wreath lechenaultia. If you have core tice, head south to the Stirling Ranges in the Great Southern region (about four hours’ drive froc Perth), or further afield again to Ravensthorpe. Most people start their tour at Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Garden, a 17ha garden with thousands of colourful wildflowers froc every corner of the state organised by geographical region and species. Detailed floral plantings with labels decorate the areas around the entry year-round. The peak visiting tice is Septecber, during the Kings Park Festival, when you can see swathes of everlasting daisies, as well as bloocing kangaroo paws, waxes and eucalypts. There are free daily walking tours too. Many bush reserves and national parks fringe the cetropolitan area and are wonderful places to look for spider, cowslip, fairy and donkey orchids, blue lechenaultia (Lechenaultia biloba), native wisteria (Hardenbergia comptoniana) and fuchsia grevillea (Grevillea bipinnatifida) – a parent of cany of the big-flowered subtropical grevillea cultivars. 22 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRAL I A Perth & surrounds PHOTOS TOURISM WESTERN AUSTRALIA, ISTOCK, DERYN THORPE, GAP PHOTOS/RICHARD WAREHAM
WA WILDFLOWERS PHOTO CLOCKWISE FROM MAIN Wildflowers including kangaroo paw, swamp daisy (Actinodium cunninghamii) and everlasting daisy at Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Garden; native wisteria (Hardenbergia comptoniana); spider or mantis orchids (Caladenia attingens); blue lechenaultia (Lechenaultia biloba) growing at Lesueur National Park, between the Wheatbelt and the Mid West regions of Western Australia; fuchsia grevillea (Grevillea bipinnatifida); cowslip orchids (Caladenia flava).
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 25 WA WILDFLOWERS PHOTOS ALAMY, TOURISM WESTERN AUSTRALIA, ISTOCK From Perth, the most popular multi-day trips are to the Mid West inland wheat and sheep farming areas (located north of the capital), where bushland and roadsides are carpeted with pink, white or yellow annual everlastings, which flower for about four weeks. Drive through the inland towns of Dalwallinu and Morawa to the city of Geraldton (424km north of Perth). Stop at each town’s tourist information centre for maps and information on the best spots. If you’ve got time, continue up the coast to Kalbarri (155km north of Geraldton), where the national park has dramatic gorges and 800 species of native flora such as pink pokers (Grevillea petrophiloides), banksias and flannel bush (Solanum lasiophyllum). From Geraldton, you can loop back to Perth along the coastal road to visit the Pinnacles, striking limestone outcrops in Nambung National Park. If time allows, drive 155km east from Geraldton to Mullewa, travelling via the Coalseam Conservation Park, where rocky outcrops have acacia shrubland festooned with pockets of everlastings. It’s a favourite stop for commercial wildflower tours, but sadly, many weeds, especially cape daisy, are out competing with the flowers. A further 30km east from Mullewa is Pindar. You’ll see the cars and caravans parked along the roadside long before you see the wreath lechenaultia. These are the flowers everyone wants to see! These circular groundcovers create a perfect wreath, less than 15cm tall and about 50cm wide, fringed with cream and pink flowers. Some grow individually in the sandy gravel and others interlock in a floral chain. In September, you can see up to 500 plants lining the Beringarra-Pindar Road. Driving south-east from Mullewa is the Karara Rangeland Park, created from six former pastoral stations. It’s the ultimate location for everlastings. Most roads are unsealed, but there are places to camp (we like Camel Soak), but note there is limited phone coverage and no drinking water. Mid West OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Wreath lechenaultia (Lechenaultia macrantha) growing in perfect wreath shapes in the red earth near Pindar in the Mid West; a field of everlastings (Rhodanthe chlorocephala subsp. splendida) at Karara Rangeland Park, north-east of Perth; pink pokers (Grevillea petrophiloides); wreath lechenaultia, seen here at Perenjori, north-east of Perth, often appears after bushfires. Perth: August, September*, October South West: September, October*, November Wheatbelt: From mid-August, September*, October Mid West: July, August* to mid-September Great Southern: September*, October, November Esperance/Ravensthorpe September*, October* to early November Gascoyne/Murchison June to October – peak time is late July to early September (rain dependent) Pilbara June to early September – peak times are rain dependent Kimberley May to September FLOWERING TIMES Here’s your at-a-glance map of WA’s wildflower regions and when they’re in bloom *peak flowering month/s PILBARA KIMBERLEY ESPERANCE/ RAVENSTHORPE GASCOYNE/ MURCHISON MID WEST WHEATBELT PERTH Geraldton . . Pindar SOUTH WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Map not to scale . Ravensthorpe . Esperance
Further afield South-east of Perth, the best wildflower areas can be found at the Stirling Range National Park (about 400km from the city) and Ravensthorpe (518km from the capital). Each area represents 20 per cent of the known flora of south-western Australia. The ranges are rich in eucalyptus, banksia and the magnificent Kingia australis, which resembles a grass tree. Ravensthorpe’s 329,000ha Fitzgerald River National Park also has many plants that only occur in this region. Some of the area’s rare beauties include the qualup bell (Pimelea physodes), the royal hakea (Hakea victoria) and the four-winged mallee (Eucalyptus tetraptera). East of Ravensthorpe is the coastal town of Esperance and Cape Arid National Park, both biodiversity hotspots. The Gascoyne region (900km north of Perth) near the coastal towns of Shark Bay, Carnarvon and Exmouth features Shark Bay mallee (Eucalyptus roycei) and Tamala rose (Diplolaena grandiflora). I squealed with delight when I saw Shark Bay daisies (Pembertonia latisquamea) in Francois Peron National Park – rain six weeks prior had supported the germination of the daisy and the hot-pink succulent parakeelya (Calandrinia polyandra), which has broad, edible leaves. The Pilbara region (1190km north of Perth) is home to the Millstream Chichester and Karijini National Parks, which have spectacular red gorges and waterholes, and 500 different types of flora, including Sturt’s desert pea (Swainsona formosa), hairy mulla mulla (Ptilotus helipteroides), everlastings and yellow-flowering cassias. Further north, in the Kimberley, flowering is more subtle, but you’ll find splashes of colour with pink mulla mulla (P. exaltatus), pink billy buttons (Gomphrena canescens) and northern tinsel flower (Cyanostegia cyanocalyx) flowering May to September. CLOCKWISE FROM MAIN A mass flowering of pink mulla mulla (Ptilotus exaltatus) is a spectacular sight; a Kingia australis overlooking the Stirling Ranges near Albany; Shark Bay daisies (Pembertonia latisquamea); the arresting hot-pink flowers of the succulent parakeelya (Calandrinia polyandra) growing in Mullewa, east of Geraldton.
Everlasting (Rhodanthe chlorocephala subsp. rosea) › This is a popular annual everlasting for home gardeners. Perfect for pots or meadow-style gardens, it has white to deep pink daisy flowers that enchant for months. P G Royal hakea (Hakea victoria) › This has a column-like habit and decorative leathery leaves that age to cream, orange and red. It prefers poor soil and cool winters. P 2–3m 1m Qualup bell (Pimelea physodes) › The eye-catching reddish-purple and cream bell-shape ‘flowers’ are actually bracts (rather than petals) surrounding small individual flowers inside. One of the most well-known of the pimeleas, it’s also one of the most temperamental, so grafted plants are recommended for east coast gardens. P 1m 1m Thomasia purpurea › With crinkled green foliage and mauve papery bell flowers and a contrasting dark purple stamen, this pretty but underused plant thrives in full sun to semi-shade. P G 80cm 80cm Rose coneflower (Isopogon formosus) › With pink flowers that look like mini fireworks clustered at the ends of branches, followed by cones that decorate the plant for months, this is a highly ornamental plant. Tip prune when young and use a low phosphorous fertiliser. P G 80cm–2m 1.5m GA WildAT HEART Many wildflowers are suitable for growing in your home garden, and some can even be grown in pots. They all require low or no humidity and free-draining soil. Here are Deryn’s top 5: GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 27 KEY: P pots G garden sun semi-shade WA WILDFLOWERS PHOTOS TOURISM WESTERN AUSTRALIA, DERYN THORPE, ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK
PLANTS 28 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 29 PHOTO Never underestimate the value of small trees, writes STEVE FALCIONI, who shares 10 spring-flowering varieties that also bring welcome splashes of colour fi e small-growing Judas tree (Cercis siliquastrum) erupts with purple-pink fl owers in spring. It’s seen here in a sea of tulips, including ‘Dordogne’, ‘Queen of Night’, ‘Maureen’, ‘Menton’, and ‘City of Vancouver’. WONDERS WONDERS liffl le PLANTS PHOTO GAP PHOTOS/MANUELA GOEHNER
30 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA tropical T subtropical ST arid/semi-arid A warm temperate WT cold temperate CT KEY CONDITIONS full sun semi-shade frost-hardy light frost CERCIS These delightful deciduous trees include the redbuds (Cercis canadensis, C. occidentalis and C. chinensis), the ever-’o’ular cultivar C. canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ (below), and the Judas tree (C. siliquastrum, previous page). Pink ’ea-sha’ed flowers smother the branches in s’ring, with white and reddish forms also available. Most have green leaves, but ‘Forest Pansy’ has ’ur’le foliage. All turn yellow or orange in autumn. These trees enjoy fertile soils and summer watering in hot, dry climates. ST A WT CT 5–6m 4–5m MAGNOLIA If you’re chasing ’erfume, consider Magnolia stellata and M. x soulangeana, with their magnificent scented dis’lays in s’ring. M. stellata flowers (right) are o’en with narrow white ’etals, while M. x soulangeana flowers have wide ’ink-and-white ’etals. Flowers can be o’en or sha’ed like a goblet. Breeders have also develo’ed ’ink forms of M. stellata, as well as new forms of M. x soulangeana that range from ’ure white through to cream, ’ink and burgundy. Give them rich soils with ’rotection from hot, dry winds. ST WT CT 3–5m 3–6m T rees are an essential ’art of any good garden design, adding height and structure as well as im’ortant focal ’oints. They also ’rovide summer shade and habitat for birds and other creatures so we can enjoy more wildlife in our gardens. With the current ’ressures on urban housing, many gardens are shrinking, and there can be a tem’tation to leave trees out of the ’lanting scheme. But the good news is that smaller-scale gardens and courtyards don’t need to miss out! There are many small trees that are ’erfectly suited to these s’aces, and they ’rovide all the benefits of larger trees. Here are a few of my favourites, which have the added bonus of knock-out s’ring flowers.
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 31 PLANTS PHOTOS GAP PHOTOS/JOHN SWITHINBANK, ALAMY, ISTOCK TREE HYDRANGEA Hydrangea paniculatajisjajdeciduousjj shrubjthatjcanjbejgrownjasjajsmalljtreejj byjremovingjmultiplejstemsjuntiljyoujhavej justjonejleft.jThisjwilljthenjdevelopjintojj ajtreejshape.jInjlatejspring,jlargejclustersj ofjcreamyjwhitejflowersjwilljappearjandj lastjforjweeks.jPrunejthejtopj growthjeveryjyearjinjlatej winterjtojencouragej densejnewjgrowthjandj morejflowers.jTheyj willjbenefitjfromjrich,j free-drainingjsoilsj andjmoisturejj injsummer. ST A WT CT j3–4mj j3m DOGWOOD Therejarejmanyjfloweringj dogwoodjspecies,jbutjmyj favouritejisjCornus florida. Injmid-springjitjburstsjintoj bloomjwithjflowerjclustersj surroundedjbyjlargejwhitejj orjrosy-pinkjbracts.jThisj deciduousjdogwoodjhasjj ajlovelyjopenjshapejandjisjj easyjtojgrow,jprovidedjitjgetsj ajwinterjchilljandjsummerj moisture.jC.jnuttalliijisjsimilarj butjhasjonlyjwhitejflowersj andjajmorejconicaljgrowthj habit.jBothjprovidejlovelyj autumnaljcolourjtoo. CT 7–12mj j5mj(C.jnuttallii) j6mj j6mj(C.jflorida)jj
32 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA PHOTOS ANNA CALVERT PHOTOGRAPHY, ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK, WIMMERA NATIVE NURSERY, NINA DAWSON WEEPING CHERRY Cherry blossoms are synonymous with sprin-, with their white and pink petals that cover the trees and carpet the surroundin- -round. Even better, if you plant a weepinvariety, their pendulous branches will provide year-round interest. They look amazin- as a feature tree or used formally in pairs or rows. And if a weepin- cherry isn’t your thin-, then consider alternatives such as upri-ht cherries, peaches, apples, apricots or crabapples. A WT CT 2–5m 2–5m (weepin- forms) 5–10m 3–6m (upri-hts) GOLDEN PEA A native from eastern Australia, -olden pea (Daviesia arborea) is not commonly -rown in -ardens – but it deserves to be! It has lovely weepin- branches and interestincorky bark, but it’s the sprin- floral display that makes it such a winner. You can expect masses of yellow, perfumed pea-shaped flowers to cover the tree from September to October. It needs rich soil with -ood draina-e and moisture in summer. ST WT (protect when youn-) 4–14m 2–6m (but it’s rare for it to reach full hei-ht in cultivation)
BLUEBERRY ASH Blucbcrry ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus) is a bcautiful cvcrgrccn that’s nativc to dustralia’s cast coast. In spring, thc trcc is smothcrcd in whitc or pink frilly flowcrs that look likc ballcrina skirts. Thcsc dcvclop into small bluc bcrrics, hcncc its common namc. Both flowcrs and bcrrics attract birds. It’s a rcliablc small trcc that’s adaptablc to most soil typcs, providcd drainagc is good. ST WT CT (protcct whcn young) 8–10m 3–4m GA BATSWING CORAL TREE Onc of thc fcw dcciduous nativc trccs, thc batswing coral trcc (Erythrina vespertilio) is found across a broad rangc of coastal and inland locations. It produccs clustcrs of pca-shapcd orangc or rcd flowcrs during spring whcn thc trcc is still barc. Thc flowcrs arc ncctar-fillcd and birds lovc thcm. Its common namc comcs from thc shapc of its lcaflcts. It handlcs most soil typcs, providcd thcy drain wcll. T ST A WT (protcct whcn young) 6–10m 4–10m BALD ISLAND MARLOCK This mallcc cucalypt (Eucalyptus conferruminata) comcs from thc southwcst of Wcstcrn dustralia and has amazing quirky flowcrs. Each flowcr has a long grccn cap that turns pinky rcd bcforc popping off. Masscs of long stamcns thcn unfurl to crcatc ycllowy grccn pompoms. It’s all vcry Dr Scuss! It’s not fussy about soil conditions and is drought tolcrant oncc cstablishcd. A WT CT (to -4°C) 8m 8m BEACH CORDIA Bcach cordia (Cordia subcordata) is a spcctacular small trcc for tropical rcgions. It has bright orangc trumpct-shapcd flowcrs that arc hcld togcthcr in clustcrs for maximum impact. It blooms all ycar round but pcaks in spring. Bcach cordia is fast growing with glossy ovatc lcavcs, making it idcal as cithcr a scrccning or fcaturc trcc. It’s not fussy about soil typcs as long as thcy drain frccly. T ST 5–10m 5–10m Almond tree Prunus amygdalus Medlar Mespilus germanica Moonah/Rottnest Island teatree Melaleuca lanceolata Native gardenia Atractocarpus fitzalanii (syn. Randia fitzalanii) Parrot tree Schotia brachypetala Silver trumpet tree Tabebuia aurea (syn. T. argentea) White fringetree Chionanthus virginicus FOR MORE SPRING FLOWERING BEAUTIES, TRY THESE: PLANTS
PLANTS 34 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA Rare in the wild, serruria is a small shrub with striking flowers ranging in colour from the slightest blush to hot pink – and it’s becoming increasingly popular in cultivation, writes horticultural editor AB BISHOP sweet serruria
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 35 PLANTS PHOTOS PROTEAFLORA, ISTOCK A lthough proteas, leucadendrons and leucospermums are native to South Africa, I tend to think of them – and this lesser known beauty, serruria – as honorary Aussies. They’re all in the same family as our beloved banksias (Banksia spp.), waratahs (Telopea spp.) and coneflowers (Isopogon spp.), and they share similar physical characteristics. This isn’t surprising – the Proteaceae family that they all belong to lived on the supercontinent Gondwanaland 120 million years ago, before it broke apart, resulting in most of the Southern Hemisphere’s continents that we know today. There are more than 50 species of Serruria, but blushing bride (S. florida) is by far the best known. Gardeners, florists, photographers and people tying the knot adore it, and it’s easy to see why. From winter into mid-spring, the 1m tall and wide evergreen bushes are covered in ethereal white and pink flowers. Clustered in groups of up to eight at the ends of branches, and long-lasting as a cut flower, these blooms are the undisputed heroes of a bouquet or vase. Tinged with light green, pointed papery bracts surround a mass of fluffy florets. The plant’s feathery foliage is deeply divided and appears silky, giving the genus another common name (albeit less appealing) – spiderhead bush. In the plant’s natural environment at the southern tip of South Africa, blushing bride depends on fire to survive, but fire is also one of the causes of its demise, and the species has been classified as critically endangered. Its ant-dispersed seeds germinate only after a fire, which kills the parent plant. With our increased frequency of bushfires, invasive plants and agriculture, the seedlings are being destroyed before they’re mature enough to flower and produce seeds. suitable at a glance common name serruria botanic name Serruria spp. plant type shrub 1m 1m full sun spring winter to spring CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE The opening blooms of Serruria ‘Pretty N Pink’; the flowers on this lovely S. florida are a fresh combo of lime green, pink and white; another S. ‘Pretty N Pink’ shrub with flowers fully open, revealing their fluffy centres.
36 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA growing tips Guy Mathews from Proteafl ora Nursery in Victoria says serruria can be fragile in cultivation. “It’s so rare in the wild, but because we have consistent, high-quality potting mix in Australia, we’re able to grow it. With sensitive plants, nuances such as this make a big difference,” he says. The nursery has also succeeded in growing S. phylicoides – its cultivar ‘Raspberry Burst’ is a rounded shrub that grows to 1m tall and wide with masses of white fl owers that age to deep pink, with contrasting yellow stamens and fl uffy grey centres. ‘Pretty N Pink’ is a hybrid of S. fl orida and S. rosea with white and hot-pink striped fl owers. Most varieties of serruria thrive in a warm temperate climate, but Andrew Greenhow from Narangba Nursery in Brisbane grows S. glomerata ‘Lemon Honey’, as this species does well in the subtropics. “Although it can grow up to ORIGIN OF SPECIES Many Serruria species are endemic to mountainous and coastal regions around Cape Town, South Africa, where they form part of a vegetation group or biome ’nown as ‘fynbos’. The fynbos ecoregion is renowned for its fl oral biodiversity and endemism, in much the same way that Western Australia is (turn to page 20 for our feature on the wildfl owers of WA). 2m in southern states, in Brisbane it gets to 1m,” he says. Its creamy yellow fl owers appear from spring to summer. Serruria are relatively short-lived plants, lasting 8–10 years. They grow naturally in acidic, granite-derived sandy soil on mountain slopes, and need perfect drainage and full sun. If your soil doesn’t meet serruria’s expectations, don’t despair – all varieties do best in pots when they’re grown in a premium potting mix suitable for Australian native plants. However, don’t make the mistake of planting them into a large ‘forever pot’ straightaway. Rather, for the fi rst 3–4 years, re-pot your plant each spring into a container that’s 5–7cm larger than the one it’s growing in. Growing them this way reduces their chances of succumbing to the soil-borne diseases they’re susceptible to, such as Phytophthora or Botrytis. Fertilise plants in spring and autumn with an Australian native plant fertiliser or organic pellets, and supplement with seaweed solution. Ensure potted plants can drain freely. Serruria will cope with light frost and coastal conditions. To develop a dense, compact, fl oriferous shrub, Guy recommends pruning two-thirds off each stem after fl owering has fi nished. “It looks drastic, but just like a rose, you’ll see that the results are worth it!” GA CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Serruria fl orida blooms make long-lasting cut fl owers; S. glomerata ‘Lemon Honey’ grows in the subtropics; S. phylicoides ‘Raspberry Burst’ features fl uff y grey fl orets. PLANTS PHOTOS ISTOCK, GAP PHOTOS/NOVA PHOTO GRAPHIK, PROTEAFLORA
For detailed information visit renaissancetours.com.au, call 1300 727 095 or contact your travel agent. Garden tours around the world CREDITS: Springtime in Millthorpe. Photo courtesy of Regional Lifestyle Magazine Photographer Robert Bruce; Micalago Station © Susan Ryrie GARDENS OF THE NSW CENTRAL WEST Orange, Bathurst, Cowra, Canowindra with Elizabeth Swane | 30 Oct – 05 Nov 2023 (7 days) Gain exclusive access to private estates and gardens across New South Wales’ Central West region bursting with spring colours. THE MONARO IN SPRING Gardens and Hometead of the High Country with Genevieve Jacobs | 18 – 22 November 2023 (5 days) Explore the historic homesteads, private gardens and artist studios of the Monaro at the height of its spring glory. GARDENS, LANDSCAPES AND HISTORY OF NORTH WEST TASMANIA Launceston, Stanley, Cradle Mountain with Julie Kinney | 22 – 30 October 2023 (9 days) Discover the pristine natural beauty of North West Tasmania, and explore quaint Georgian villages, private gardens and grand estates. AUTUMN COLOURS OF JAPAN Hokkaido and Northern Honshu with Genevieve Jacobs | 01 – 15 October 2023 (15 days) Delight in autumn’s colourful panorama of traditional Japanese gardens and contemporary designs through a unique tour of Hokkaido and northern Honshu.
GARDENS 38 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED fi e beautiful Japanese-style front garden includes a carefully raked gravel area dotted with stones covered in cushion bush and creeping thyme, a European horse-chestnut, Jacobaea ‘Silver Dust’, azaleas, conifers, papyrus and a sacred bamboo.
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 39 PHOTO MEMORIES MEMORIES garden of With three distinct areas, this immaculate Melbourne garden delights all the senses and is a haven for both its owners and the local birdlife words AB BISHOP photography VIRGINIA CUMMINS GARDENS
GARDENS 40 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA T he relaxing sound of trickling water emanates through the Japanese-style front garden. Its source is a small waterfall that spills into a pebble-filled pond. Edged with moss-covered rocks and various coloured azaleas, the grotto-like feature is heard before it’s seen when entering from the street. A European horse-chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) and an ornamental cherry are awe-inspiring specimens, especially in spring when they’re smothered in blossom. They also provide a leafy canopy over stark white, carefully raked gravel that’s beautifully punctuated with rock ‘islands’ covered with moss-like cushion bush (Scleranthus biflorus) and white creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum ‘Albus’). This exquisite and meticulously maintained front garden in Kew, Melbourne, on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people, was designed and built by landscaper Akira Takizawa. It’s a small-scale replica of a famous Kyoto garden and was commissioned by owner Jenny Deyzel and her late husband, Ed, who passed away in 2007. “We had always wanted to travel to Japan but never managed to, so this was the next best thing,” says Jenny, who teaches children with learning difficulties. The couple bought the quarter-acre (0.10ha) property in 1983, having moved to Melbourne from Brisbane after they emigrated from South Africa in 1980. The garden was typical of the era: lawn and a few trees. At the time, Ed was the gardener of the family and helped Akira to build the front garden, which not only provides privacy from the street, but also a stunning outlook from the house. When Ed was badly injured in a car accident, Jenny took over the gardening, turning her attention to the backyard, where she decided to create an Australian garden. “We thought it would be easy because native plants are everywhere, but it was trouble from the beginning,” she laments. “Our tree ferns all died during the drought.” THIS PAGE, FROM TOP Pink azalea and Jacobaea ‘Silver Dust’; the serene front garden pond is surrounded by mossy stones, azaleas, papyrus and Pinus strobus ‘Merrimack’; vibrant azaleas and white daisies bring the wow-factor. OPPOSITE A stone obelisk inscribed with Kanji characters meaning ‘peace’ sits among the azaleas, diosmas and a crepe myrtle tree.
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 41 GARDENS PHOTO THE FRONT GARDEN, DESIGNED AND BUILT BY LANDSCAPER AKIRA TAKIZAWA, IS A SMALL-SCALE REPLICA OF A FAMOUS GARDEN IN KYOTO.
GARDENS 42 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 43 GARDENS Jenny persevered, with Akira’s help once more, removing the entire rear lawn and creating a large central mound and wide, curved beds along the fences. Although the area is filled with mostly native plants, including blueberry ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus), gymea lily (Doryanthes excelsa), native frangipani (Hymenosporum flavum), wattles and Austral indigo (Indigofera australis), the meandering gravel paths, dry creek bed, thoughtfully positioned mossy rocks and second pond provide continuity with the front garden and lend a distinctly Japanese vibe. It’s hard to imagine now, but it took Jenny years to find suitable soil for the plants she wanted to grow. She continually builds on the soil’s health and nutrition, diligently making and adding compost and biologically activated mulch. Jenny and Ed’s daughter, Lou, who became a paraplegic after developing an autoimmune disease, moved to the property in 2010. She is clearly as proud of her mum as Jenny is of Lou; the pair are both keen photographers and have created 10 photo books of delightful images of the garden. “Dad was quite the visionary, and Mum is brilliant! She has an eye for everything and a green thumb, and has become very knowledgeable about plants over the years. She’s 84 and still spends every day in the garden when she’s not working.” There are large ironbarks, a huge oak growing in a lane behind the property, a strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) and other mature shrubs and trees that obscure neighbouring houses, creating a sanctuary-like space. The entire garden is a refuge for both women. THIS PAGE, FROM TOP Garden owner Jenny and her daughter, Lou; colourful heart-leaf flame pea, strawflower and grass flag; spherical metal sculptures sit in front of gymea lily, kangaroo paw, native frangipani, a grass tree and everlasting daisies. OPPOSITE In the back garden, a red ironbark (Eucalyptus sideroxylon) arches over heart-leaf flame pea, karri oak and grass trees, and gravel paths provide continuity with the front garden.
GARDENS 44 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA “It’s beautiful no matter the season,” says Lou. “Watching wattlebirds on the kangaroo paws is amusing, and even in winter, without the flowers, the Japanese garden is amazing. The shape of the azalea bushes, the textures and different greens of all the plants, and the structure of the bare trees is glorious.” “The garden uplifts us and is a constant source of comfort,” says Jenny. “There’s not a day when Lou and I don’t notice something new. A cycad in the front garden has given us a lot of joy. The fronds take several weeks to unfurl – it’s fascinating.” Jenny describes the property as “three gardens in one”, having developed the narrow areas on either side of the home with shade-loving beauties, including ferns, clivias and cyclamens. It was actually two cymbidium orchids – thoughtfully gifted to her by some parents of her students when Ed died – that first prompted Jenny to develop this shady space. “I didn’t know what to do with them, but I planted them in their pots into built-up beds and they thrived,” she says. Jenny added more orchids, given to her by a friend whose father was an orchid breeder and judge. “I’ve never divided them, and they only get an hour’s sun every day, but it seems to be the perfect spot.” Although there’s not much time for relaxing, when Jenny does sit down for a cuppa, she takes huge pleasure from the garden and what she has achieved. “I have so many memories of people who’ve given me plants, and I think about how privileged I am to look after it all.” GA THIS PAGE, FROM TOP LEFT These cymbidium orchids were a thoughtful gift to Jenny; the interesting blooms of grey honey-myrtle (Melaleuca incana); ferns and a flowering Guichenotia macrantha have been planted in a shady spot down the side of the house; a native fern and native orchids. OPPOSITE The back garden is full of natives: here, a bush pea shrub (Pultenaea sp., left) sits opposite a dwarf woolly bush (Pomaderris lanigera, right).
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 45 GARDENS PHOTO
46 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA PHOTOS KIM WOODS RABBIDGE For this avid collector and nature lover, her enchanting garden is the canvas on which her creativity blossoms, writes JUDY HORTON A fter her two adult sons left home, about 35 years ago, Elaine Armstrong decided she would fulfi l a long-held dream and move to the bush. She had grown up on a cattle property in outback Queensland and, after living abroad and in Brisbane, she longed to return to nature. She settled on a forested 17ha block about 85km from Brisbane in Gubbi Gubbi and Jinibara Country, in the hinterland of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, within view of the upright peaks of the Glass House Mountains. She fell in love with the valley property on fi rst sight. “I was enchanted by the magical fl ashes of silver,” she says, referring to the sun’s rays hitting and refl ecting off the damp foliage of the fl ooded gums (Eucalyptus grandis). “The other thing that enticed me was the fragrance of eucalyptus and the herby scents of the Australian bush.” The block of land was part of a much larger parcel that was cleared of its timber in the early 20th century. During the 1930s, it was divided into smaller sections and rented out to banana growers. When they left, the forest started to take over again, which was much of what attracted Elaine. It was hard going in the beginning, but Elaine has never regretted her decision. She was living off the grid long before it became trendy. “It was pretty remote when I moved up here,” she recalls. “There was a rough track up through the gully, and I had no electricity and no piped water. At fi rst, I depended on candles for lighting, then I graduated to gas. Now I’m very modern – I have solar power.” Art +soul GARDENS
GARDENING AUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2023 47 CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE Glorious wisteria abounds in Elaine’s garden, complemented by tall Mediterranean cypress trees (Cupressus sempervirens) and attractive topiaries; Elaine with native strawflowers (Xerochrysum bracteatum); the painted poles and stained-glass windows of the property add even more colour, along with the plaited wisteria coiling around the verandah posts. ts soon as she could, Elaine put in rainwater tanks for the house and, most importantly, a large dam for irrigating the garden in dry periods. While the house is still an ongoing project, planting the garden was her main focus from the beginning. “I couldn’t get the house all built at once, so I started in a small way and have been adding to it ever since.”
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PEOPLE 50 SEPTEMBER 2023 GARDENING AUSTRALIA The loft’s courtyard walls are lined with tall, narrow plants, including three species of ivy that weave their way through a frame along the back wall. The addition of warm lighting makes it a cosy and inviting place to relax.