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Enjoy your garden in the cooler months with a stunning firepit

Simple Winter Ideas to Transform Your Garden

July 1, 2025
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Colour, Decking, Design, Flowers, Garden, Maintenance, Materials, Outdoor Entertaining, Plants, Pruning, Seasonal tips, Weather
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No comments
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Posted by Parveen

Winter may bring cooler days and a slower pace in the garden, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor space has to lose its charm. In fact, this season offers the perfect chance to see your garden differently—calm, crisp, and surprisingly peaceful. While we often associate gardens with colourful spring flowers or summer entertaining, winter can be just as beautiful when it’s thoughtfully designed.

Across Australia, winter conditions vary. Northern regions often enjoy mild, sunny days, while the south may face frosty mornings and shorter daylight hours. But no matter where you live, your garden has the potential to become a cosy, welcoming retreat—even in the heart of July.

Whether you’re sitting by a fire pit with friends, enjoying a hot cuppa under twinkling lights, or simply taking in a quiet morning moment, a well-designed winter garden invites you to slow down and savour the season. It’s not just about getting through winter—it’s about embracing it.

In this blog, we’ll share practical and creative ways to make your garden more inviting through the colder months. From warmth and lighting to clever layout and planting ideas, you’ll find inspiration to help your garden feel welcoming all year round.

Chimnea

Add a Fire Pit or Outdoor Heater

Adding a heat source to your garden is one of the easiest ways to make it more comfortable and enjoyable during winter. It keeps you warm and encourages you to spend more time outdoors, even on cooler days.

A well-placed fire pit provides more than just warmth—it creates a natural gathering point for conversations, storytelling, or simply relaxing under the stars. A built-in fire pit is an excellent option if you’re designing a new outdoor space or want a permanent fixture.

For flexibility, consider using a portable steel or cast-iron fire pit that can be easily moved around as needed. If open flames aren’t allowed in your area, outdoor heaters are a fantastic alternative.

Gas or electric infrared models work exceptionally well in covered patios or smaller seating zones, offering steady warmth without smoke or mess.

Regardless of the option you choose, look for energy-efficient and weather-resistant designs. And don’t forget to check safety clearances and local regulations. In colder regions like the Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands, or Tasmania, a reliable heat source can completely transform your garden into a cosy winter retreat—perfect for entertaining or unwinding alone.

Use Windbreaks to Shelter Your Space

Chilly winds can make even the most beautiful garden feel uninviting. Adding windbreaks is a smart way to improve comfort while protecting delicate plants from windburn and damage.

One of the best natural solutions is to plant dense hedges. Options like Lilly Pilly, Viburnum tinus, and Westringia are fast-growing, evergreen, and well-suited to a wide range of Australian climates.

Not only do they offer protection from the wind, but they also add year-round greenery and can be trimmed to suit both formal and relaxed garden styles. As a bonus, these living walls provide extra privacy and help reduce noise.

Maintaining Hedges All Year Round

Consider installing timber screens, Corten steel panels, or laser-cut metal designs if you’re looking for something quicker or more structured. These shield you from the wind and add texture and visual interest to your garden. Whether you prefer a soft, natural approach or a more modern, architectural look, a windbreak solution is suitable for your space.

For extra warmth, position your seating or dining area in the lee of these windbreaks to create a natural microclimate. A natural microclimate is a small area within your garden with slightly different weather conditions than the surrounding area, often due to windbreaks or other natural features. It can be a great way to make your garden more inviting during winter.

Modern Conservatories for Year-Round Enjoyment

A brilliant way to enjoy your garden during winter (while still keeping warm) is to have an outdoor conservatory.

Far from the retro sunrooms of the 1970s, today’s conservatories are sleek, highly functional spaces designed to blur the line between indoors and out. 

Clear glass or polycarbonate walls allow uninterrupted views of the garden while keeping you sheltered from wind, rain, and chill. It’s all the joy of being in nature, without the discomfort of winter weather.

One of the best features of a contemporary conservatory is the roofing options. A louvred roof system gives you complete control. It can be angled to let in the winter sun or completely closed to keep out rain, all while maintaining airflow and light.

Other waterproof roof designs offer sky views without compromising comfort, meaning your conservatory becomes a year-round retreat for relaxing, reading, or entertaining, with the garden as your backdrop.

Warm Up For Winter With Outdoor Lighting

Lighting in winter does more than improve visibility; it enhances mood and creates atmosphere. As the days get shorter, thoughtful lighting design can extend the functionality of your garden and make it feel warmer and more inviting.

Use soft, warm-toned LED lights along pathways, steps, and garden beds to create subtle illumination without overpowering the space.

Solar-powered uplights can highlight focal trees or structural plants, while spike lights are ideal for illuminating ornamental grasses and shrubs that offer winter interest.

For entertaining zones, consider stringing festoon or fairy lights above patios or pergolas for a magical, cosy glow. Wall-mounted lights or bollards near seating areas can make the space more comfortable for evening use.

Day entertaining turns into night with these fairy lights

Consider integrating motion-sensor lights into your overall lighting plan to enhance safety and comfort. These lights automatically turn on when they detect motion, providing instant illumination and improving safety. You can place them along pathways or near steps to illuminate the way when someone approaches.

Garden setting in a small, lush courtyard in the backyard of the Brunswick East garden design

Create a Cosy Corner with Weather-Proof Furniture

Outdoor furniture doesn’t need to be packed away in winter, provided it’s up to the task. Invest in weather-resistant materials such as powder-coated steel, treated timber, or synthetic wicker.

These materials are designed to withstand the elements and still look great year after year. They are resistant to rust, rot, and fading, making them ideal for outdoor use in all seasons. Choose pieces that encourage relaxation, such as cushioned lounges, deep armchairs, or a swinging bench.

Use storage-friendly outdoor cushions and throws made from UV and water-resistant fabrics to add softness and warmth. Don’t underestimate the power of layering—a couple of blankets and a textured outdoor rug can transform even a basic patio into a winter retreat.

Placement is also essential. Place furniture where it catches the winter sun during the day or under cover if your area sees regular rain. Add a small coffee or side table to enjoy warm drinks or snacks while soaking up the fresh air.

Add Evergreen Plants for Winter Appeal

Incorporating evergreen plants into your garden ensures it never looks bare, regardless of season. These plants maintain their leaves year-round and provide essential structure, colour, and texture through winter.

Look for Australian natives and climate-appropriate exotics that thrive in your region. Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ offers dense foliage and creamy flowers.

Dianella adds grassy form and low maintenance appeal, while Acacia ‘Limelight’ provides a striking lime-green accent. 

Dwarf magnolias and other shrubs planted in ground in Vermont South landscape design by Parveen Dhaliwal

With their upright growth and sculptural bracts, Leucadendrons make a bold winter statement. Pair evergreens with flowering winter plants like Camellias, Correas, and Grevilleas. These add colour and attract birds and beneficial pollinators, keeping your garden lively even when temperatures dip.

Leucophyta brownii in Vermont South landscape design

Winter-Proof Your Garden with Mulch

Mulch is one of the best winter gardening tools. It acts as an insulating blanket, keeping roots warmer and preventing frost damage. It also helps suppress weeds and retains precious soil moisture.

Apply a 5–7 cm layer s around your plants and garden beds. Great options include pea straw, sugarcane mulch, pine bark, or shredded leaves. Be sure to leave a little space around plant stems to prevent rot.

Not only does mulch benefit your plants and make your garden look tidy and well-cared for. This visual boost is especially welcome in winter, when many perennials are cut back and gardens look sparse.

Make Hardscaping Winter-Friendly

Hardscaping adds form, function, and all-weather usability to your outdoor space. Think of it as the bones of your garden — the parts that don’t go dormant in winter.

Pathways made from pavers, stepping stones, or compacted gravel improve drainage and reduce muddy walkways.

Retaining walls and raised beds allow you to plant above frost lines, and stone or concrete edging defines garden zones while staying neat in any season.

Covered patios or pergolas with clear roofing or retractable awnings let you enjoy your outdoor space in wet or windy weather. To maximise space and usability during winter, incorporate built-in seating, an outdoor kitchen bench, or vertical herb gardens.

View of stepping stones and pebbled path in Highett garden design
3 seater garden seat accessory used in Camberwell design

Design with All Seasons in Mind

Truly inviting gardens don’t cater to just one season; they evolve and function beautifully all year round. Great design considers the sun’s changing angles, seasonal plant variation, wind direction, and how you use your space daily. 

In winter, it’s essential to prioritise the sunniest spots for seating and dining. These pockets of natural warmth can become your go-to zones for a mid-morning cuppa or a quiet moment of reflection.

You can boost their comfort by using reflective surfaces like mirrors, glass screens, or light-coloured rendered walls to bounce light around and visually open darker corners.

But light alone isn’t enough; colour also plays a significant role. Winter gardens can quickly feel muted or gloomy without lush summer blooms.

Try introducing bold wall accents, outdoor sculptures, or colourful garden art to keep things interesting. Even a vibrant set of pots in citrus or jewel tones can lift the atmosphere dramatically. Don’t be afraid to be playful, bright hues in winter feel like a warm hug for the eyes.

Layered planting with evergreen structure and pops of colour from cold-weather bloomers like camellias, grevilleas, or native wattles can also keep your garden visually rich throughout the season. And if you’re planning a renovation or landscape update, now is the perfect time to incorporate this four-season thinking. Designing with winter in mind ensures your garden remains lively, balanced, and full of character, no matter what the calendar says.

A Winter Garden Worth Spending Time In

Creating an inviting garden in winter doesn’t require a significant overhaul. The more minor, intentional changes often make the most critical impact, like adding a warm lighting glow, protecting yourself from cold breezes, or choosing the right evergreen plants to keep your garden full of life.

As Australians, we’re lucky to enjoy relatively mild winters compared to many parts of the world, so our outdoor spaces don’t have to sit idle during the cooler months.

With some planning and creativity, you can create a garden that encourages you to step outside, connect with nature, and make the most of your space, whether a sprawling backyard or a small courtyard.

Think of your garden as a natural extension of your home, even in winter. Use it for slow mornings with a hot cuppa, quiet afternoons soaking up a bit of sun, or evenings around the fire with friends.

Turn Small Spaces Into An Entertainer's Paradise

The perfect setup can transform even the coldest days into opportunities to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the season’s beauty. So layer up, toast marshmallows over the fire and reclaim your garden this winter. With the right design ideas, it might become your favourite season.

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How to Use Artistic Expression in Garden Design

Parveen

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inspiringlandscapes.com.au

There’s something so inviting about a curved foo There’s something so inviting about a curved footpath in the garden. Unlike straight lines, curves feel organic, like they belong. They encourage you to slow down, take in your surroundings, and enjoy the journey rather than just rushing to the destination. But here’s the trick: how you line and frame that path makes all the difference.⁠
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🌾 Border with Soft Planting—Use low-growing or trailing plants to gently define the edge without rigid lines. Think Thyme, Dichondra, or Native Violet. These plants can spill slightly into the path, softening the edges and adding colour and scent as you walk by.⁠
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🌸 Add Movement and Colour –Plant ornamental grasses like Lomandra, Poa, or Pennisetum along the curve. Their natural sway brings the life path, especially when they catch the breeze or morning light. For colour, try cold-season bloomers like Violas, Salvias, or Grevilleas to brighten up winter days.⁠
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🪴 Create Moments Along the Way – Curved paths allow you to add small moments of interest. A feature pot, a cluster of rocks, or a sculptural plant can act as visual pauses that draw the eye and enhance the journey.⁠
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🌞 Make It Walkable Year-Round—Even without edging, you can keep your curved path practical. Use compacted gravel, crushed granite, or large stepping stones for a clean, low-maintenance surface. These materials drain well and look beautifully natural beside planting.⁠
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💡 Layer in Light and Shadow – Solar path lights, hanging lanterns, or uplighting around plants can bring your curved path to life in the evening, creating a welcoming glow and extending its use well beyond daylight hours.⁠
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Curved paths aren’t just practical; they bring rhythm and story to your garden. They create flow, invite exploration, and make even a small space feel like a thoughtful escape. So lean into the curve, let the plants talk, and enjoy the magic of meandering through your slice of nature. ✨🌿⁠
Imagine softness and increased plant diversity in Imagine softness and increased plant diversity in a compact tiny frontyard! 🌷⁠
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Achievable?  Oh yes!⁠
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And a lot more interesting than a boring flat grassed area which it is usually the case!⁠
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So in this design, the front yard was a simple grassed area before the goldies decided to turn it into a MASSIVE patch of mud!! ⁠
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What I’ve proposed will be a HUGE improvement aesthetically, to be enjoyed not only by my lovely client and goldies but also by her lovely neighbours!⁠
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I emphasised natives but snuck in some compatible exotics to achieve my vision of seasonality, importantly fostering a manageable maintenance routine whilst keeping true to a cottage garden look which my lovely client loves and needs!⁠
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It was certainly a challenge balancing all the requirements — reasonable seating area, dog play/navigation 🐶, and enough space for a thriving garden that is lush, interesting to be in, and to also be enjoyed from inside the house. BUT I got there in the end 😄. ⁠
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In choosing the plants, the garden was also in a lot of shade but had many pockets with a sunnier aspect 😎, so it was tricky to balance all of the plant composition to make it work and safe for the resident goldies to play in!⁠ I loved the challenge though! ⁠
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And my favourite part?  Note the path to the street. The goldies love saying hello to friendly neighbours 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 who stop by, pat them, and chat!⁠ ⁠
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Here’s what my lovely client had to say about the draft 💚:⁠
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“Hello Parveen,⁠
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I have had a chance to look at the design and plants this weekend. I love the plants you have chosen and have definitely made the front garden welcoming. It will also be a lovely relaxing and peaceful place to sit and enjoy.⁠
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Trish Edwards”⁠
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Would love to know what you think about this design! 😊⁠
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📸 Pic 1: May 2025 Mitcham planting design (after)⁠
📸 Pic 2: May 2025 Mitcham planting design (before)⁠
In a low-maintenance garden, there’s always spac In a low-maintenance garden, there’s always space for a little artistic flair.⁠⁠ These fibreglass spheres might look like simple garden ornaments, but they’re so much more than that. ⁠
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Sure, they bring a beautiful sense of texture and form to the space, breaking up the greenery, complementing the planting palette, and adding contrast against the natural elements.⁠
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Depending on where you stand, the time of day, or even the season, they cast different shadows, reflect the light uniquely, and offer fresh perspectives. They’re not just decorative — they bring depth. Emotion. A sense of quiet presence.⁠
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I often think of gardens as living galleries, and these fibreglass balls add that extra layer—something unexpected and abstract—a focal point that doesn’t shout but gently draws the eye and gives the mind something to linger on.⁠
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A low-maintenance garden doesn’t have to mean low character; with the right touches, it can still be full of meaning, texture, and a sense of story. ✨⁠
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📸Avenue of Achievable Gardens MIFGS 2025.
Let’s talk walls and fences — the unsung heroe Let’s talk walls and fences — the unsung heroes of garden design! 🌿🧱⁠
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They might not steal the spotlight like a flowering tree or water feature, but trust us — your choice of fencing or walling can make the space. Think of them as the frame to your outdoor masterpiece. A good one? Seamless, stylish, and supportive. A bad one? Well ... let’s say it’ll distract from even your most glorious blooms.⁠
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Want a modern vibe? Go sleek with timber slats or rendered finishes. After more charm? Brick, stone, or a climbing vine-covered trellis can bring serious character. And don’t forget the practical stuff — privacy, security, and keeping your neighbour’s dog firmly on their side. 🐶💬⁠
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Your garden walls should work with your plants, not against them — so match the vibe, play with texture, and don’t be afraid to add personality. Because in the end, even your fences deserve to feel fabulous. 💁‍♀️🌱⁠
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To find out more about how to choose your garden wall and fences, read our blog here: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/how-to-choose-your-garden-walls-and-fences/⁠
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📸Highett project 2023⁠
This reminder is comforting, especially when life This reminder is comforting, especially when life feels messy, unpredictable, or overwhelming. Chaos might be loud and persistent, but nature is quietly resilient. Wildflowers are the perfect symbol of that. 🌻⁠
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They don’t ask for perfect soil. They don’t wait for the ideal conditions. They appear bold, colourful, and full of life in unlikely places. Cracks in the pavement. Forgotten fields. Windy hillsides.⁠
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In many ways, they reflect something in us, too: that quiet ability to grow through what we go through, to find beauty in the mess, to be soft but stubborn, delicate but determined.⁠
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Your garden might be full of carefully planned beds and structured design—or it might be a little wild around the edges. Either way, let the wildflowers remind you: growth doesn’t need permission. Hope doesn’t ask for perfect timing. And beauty? It often arrives unannounced.⁠
🐝✨ It’s National Pollinator Month! But wait 🐝✨ It’s National Pollinator Month! But wait… it’s winter. So does pollination still happen? The answer is yes—just a little differently. ❄️🌼⁠
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While most of the buzzing action slows down during the colder months, some native bees, hoverflies, and other cold-hardy pollinators are still out and about on mild winter days, searching for nectar and pollen. ⁠
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That’s why winter-flowering plants are crucial in keeping your garden—and your local ecosystem—alive and thriving year-round.⁠
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Here are a few pollinator-friendly plants worth adding to your winter garden:⁠
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🌿 Grevillea – Bold, beautiful, and a favourite for bees and nectar-loving birds.⁠
🌸 Correa (Native Fuchsia) – Blooms right through winter with bell-shaped flowers perfect for smaller pollinators.⁠
🪻 Hellebores (Winter Roses) – Elegant and hardy, offering early-season pollen for hungry insects.⁠
🌱 Winter-flowering Rosemary – Aromatic, hardy, and full of nectar—what’s not to love?⁠
💜 Lavender – Some varieties continue to bloom through cooler months and attract bees when the sun peeks out.⁠
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Winter pollination may be quieter, but it’s just as important. By planting thoughtfully and providing seasonal food sources, you’re helping pollinators survive the cold and return stronger in spring. 🐝💚⁠
🌿 Got a vine climbing its way along a wire? Let 🌿 Got a vine climbing its way along a wire? Let’s keep it looking lush, healthy, and under control! Whether it’s jasmine, clematis, star jasmine, or even a passionfruit vine, properly training and maintaining your vine will make all the difference.⁠
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Here are a few key tips to keep your climbing beauty in top shape:⁠
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🔧 Support is everything – Ensure your wire is firm, taut, and anchored well. Loose or sagging wires can cause uneven growth and limit your plant’s potential.⁠
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Guide the growth – Vines won’t always grow where you want them to. Weave or tie new shoots along the wire using soft plant ties, especially when young and flexible.⁠
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✂️ Prune regularly — Light, regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents your vine from getting wild and tangled. Snip back any dead or unruly stems and shape the vine to keep things neat.⁠
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💧 Water smart — Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong root growth, and always check the base of the plant rather than the leaves to determine when it needs a drink.⁠
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🌞 Check for sun – Most flowering vines love full sun, so ensure they get plenty of light for a full, vibrant display.⁠
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With the right support (literally and figuratively!), a climbing vine can turn a simple wire into a stunning green wall or floral feature. Just give it a little attention and it’ll reward you with beauty all year round! 🌼✨⁠
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📸Mount Waverley project 2023⁠
Cacti!!!⁠ ⁠ If you’re after something bold, Cacti!!!⁠
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If you’re after something bold, low-maintenance, and packed with personality, cacti are perfect for it. 🌵 ⁠
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These sculptural beauties bring instant style to any space, whether planting a full desert garden or adding a few statement pots to your balcony. Group them in clusters, let them stand solo (like the one in our picture), or dot them along a path for some serious architectural flair.⁠
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Are you all about design? Here’s a cactus tip for you: play with colour! Cactuses don’t just come in vibrant greens—some lean grey or silver, which can bring a whole new mood to your space. 🎨⁠
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Green cactuses feel fresh and lively, while grey varieties add a more serene, earthy tone. Mixing both can create contrast and texture that feels modern but grounded.⁠
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💡 Fun fact: Did you know cactuses have tiny spines instead of leaves to minimise water loss and keep them cool? It’s nature’s built-in air conditioning—and why they thrive in dry conditions with minimal fuss. Plus, those spines can even create a tiny shade on their surface!⁠
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So if you’re all about stress-free gardening with maximum style, a cactus (or five) might be your garden’s new best friend. Tough, timeless, and totally on trend.⁠
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Do you prefer green or grey cactuses? Let me know in the comments below.🌵⁠
This video is of my Bundoora project from 2014. Me This video is of my Bundoora project from 2014. Mei Sze and her husband were beautiful clients who needed a balance between functionality and practicality. A kitchen garden with elements of play 😉 ⁠
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Here is some of what they had to say:⁠
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“My husband and I wanted a practical and functional backyard to accommodate our two active and growing kids. Previously, our backyard was a haphazard zone with no appeal whatsoever.⁠
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My husband and I now enjoy the low-maintenance garden beds and vegetable patch. We’ve harvested some homegrown vegetables, figs, herbs, lemons, and oranges from espalier varieties — a space-saving alternative to full trees, as Parveen suggested, given our limited planting space.⁠”⁠
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Mei Sze Lim⁠
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To read more about the practical but very functional garden in Bundoora, head on over to https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/bundoora/⁠
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📸Bundoora project, completed 2014
There’s always something magical about water flo There’s always something magical about water flowing between beautifully placed rocks!⁠
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From the tranquil koi ponds of Japan to the grand fountains of European estates, water has always held a deep place in garden design, not just for beauty, but for meaning. Across cultures, water represents life, reflection, calm, and movement. It’s symbolic, spiritual, and entirely sensory.⁠
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In Islamic gardens, water channels mirror paradise. In Chinese landscapes, still ponds reflect balance and harmony. In modern Western design, it can be a peaceful retreat or an energising focal point.⁠
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🌊 A water feature isn’t just an aesthetic choice — it’s an invitation to pause. To reflect. Feel connected to nature, culture, and something more profound than ourselves.⁠
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Whether it’s a bubbling basin or a minimalist rill, ask yourself what you want your garden to say with water?⁠
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📸Between Moments, by Ben Hutchinson, MIFGS 2025
Isn’t it funny how some things anchor us? In a w Isn’t it funny how some things anchor us? In a world that often feels like it’s moving at a million miles an hour, the simple, grounding constants in life matter more than ever.⁠
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Your house is more than walls and a roof — it’s your little slice of the world where your story unfolds. Your friends? They’re the people who know how you take your tea, who you text when life feels too big or too dull. And your garden … oh, your garden is where everything breathes.⁠
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A garden doesn’t just grow flowers — it grows perspective, peace, and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a tiny balcony jungle, a sun-drenched courtyard, or a winding backyard path, your garden reflects your mood, memories, and hopes. It’s where life slows down enough for you to feel.⁠
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Maybe it’s the way the light hits a particular leaf, the daily ritual of watering, pruning, or simply sitting in silence. It’s in those small, quiet moments that we reconnect with ourselves.⁠
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So today, let’s take a moment to be thankful for the spaces and people that make life feel whole. And if your garden’s looking a little wild? That’s okay. Maybe so are you, and perhaps that’s just perfect.⁠
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A garden can be much more than a place to grow pla A garden can be much more than a place to grow plants. When you bring artistic expression into garden design, you create a space that reflects who you are, not just what looks good in a catalogue.⁠
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Artistic expression in the garden is about making intentional choices. It’s the colours that evoke emotion, the shapes that draw your eye, and the materials that create rhythm or contrast. ⁠
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It might be something like a bold garden sculpture that adds interest to a quiet corner or climbing vines to soften the look of a plain wall. These choices aren’t just about how your garden looks—they help shape how it feels and how you experience the space every day.⁠
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The best part? There’s no single right way to do it. Whether your space is wild and untamed or sleek and structured, it becomes meaningful when it reflects your perspective and personality.⁠
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So, if you’re planning a new garden or refining an existing one, ask yourself: What do I want to feel here? From there, design with purpose. Let colour, texture, and structure support that feeling, just like an artist would with a canvas.⁠
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A well-designed garden doesn’t grow — it communicates. Let yours say something worth listening to. ⁠
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You can read our latest blog about artistic expression in garden design here: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/how-to-use-artistic-expression-in-garden-design/⁠
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📸Maribyrnong project 2012⁠
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Just because the temperature’s dropped doesn’t Just because the temperature’s dropped doesn’t mean your garden’s gone into full hibernation. Your plants still need water in a more balanced and mindful way.⁠
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During the cooler months, overwatering can be just as damaging as underwatering. Roots still need moisture to stay healthy, especially evergreens and newly planted trees or shrubs. And while rainfall might help, it’s often not enough or evenly distributed.⁠

Melbourne seems to be experiencing low rainfall at the moment so please be careful with how much water you’re using to water your garden!
⁠
✅ Check your soil before watering — if it’s still damp a few inches down, you can hold off.⁠
✅ Adjust your irrigation timers to avoid overwatering and reduce fungal risk.⁠
✅ Water during mid-morning so roots absorb moisture before the evening chill sets in.⁠
⁠
Irrigation isn’t just a summer task — year-round care keeps your garden resilient and ready to thrive come spring! 🌱❄️⁠
⁠
Ever wandered through a garden and felt instantly Ever wandered through a garden and felt instantly uplifted, calm, or even energised? That’s not by accident—it’s the power of colour in garden design at play.⁠
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Choosing the right planting scheme is like painting with nature’s palette. Want a peaceful vibe? Go for cool tones like blues, purples, and silvers. Craving drama or excitement? Bold reds, oranges, and yellows can bring the fire! And don’t underestimate green—it’s the ultimate background hero, tying everything together.⁠
⁠
By thoughtfully mixing colours through your planting choices, you can:⁠
🌸 Create mood and atmosphere⁠
🌼 Draw the eye to key areas⁠
🌻 Make small spaces feel larger—or cozy them up⁠
⁠
Colour isn’t just pretty—it’s a tool for expression. So whether you’re aiming for harmony, contrast, or a riot of joyful chaos, there’s a colour story waiting to bloom in your garden.⁠
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#PlantingSchemes #GardenColourTheory #GardenDesignTips #ColourInTheGarden #GardenInspiration #PlantWithPurpose #GardenMood #LandscapeDesign #BloomsAndBalance #ExpressYourselfOutdoors⁠
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📸 Pic 1: Sedate & pastel planting schemes in Ode, garden designed by Brent Reid, Candeo Design, MIFGS 2025⁠
📸 Pic 2: Autumnal & pastel planting scheme in a Border garden, MIFGS 2023⁠
📸 Pic 3: Vibrant planting scheme, Brighton, 2016⁠
📸 Pic 4: Planting snippet, peaceful tones of white and purple, Yarraville design, 2020⁠
📸Pic 5: peaceful tones of white and purple⁠
📸Pic 6: coastal tones of silver and green, Blackburn project 2016⁠
📸Pic 7: colourful vibes of a cottage garden!
📸Pic 8: sedate tones of beige and white broken up with some cheery orange and pinks, Brighton project 2016⁠
🌿 Green isn’t just something we see — it’ 🌿 Green isn’t just something we see — it’s something we feel. Across cultures and generations, plants have shaped the way we live, celebrate, heal, and connect with the world around us.⁠
⁠
From ancient medicinal gardens to sacred groves and lush courtyards, greenery has always been part of the human story. It’s in how we bring fresh flowers to a loved one, sip herbal tea to soothe the nerves, or tend a backyard veggie patch to feed both body and soul. Plants aren’t just decoration — they’re part of our well-being.⁠
⁠
Science backs it up, too. Spending time around plants has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve concentration, and even speed up recovery. ⁠
⁠
On a cultural level, gardens have long been places of gathering, reflection, ritual, and renewal.⁠
⁠
So, the next time you’re in your garden or even just admiring a humble houseplant, take a moment to appreciate the deep roots we share with the plant world. ⁠
⁠
Greenery grounds us, heals us, and reminds us of our place in something larger.⁠
Let’s not just grow gardens — let’s grow connections. 🌱⁠
This design snap is from my Ardeer project. The br This design snap is from my Ardeer project. The brief was for a romantic and naturalistic garden with flowers that could be picked for all the rooms in the house. How dreamy!!! 🤩💐⁠
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The private area at the rear of the garden is stunningly colourful and has a private pergola for my lovely client to use as a personal relaxing space. 🧘‍♀️⁠
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There’s plenty of storage, entertainment, and play areas for the children to explore and run around. It’s full of colour, noise, and fun!!! 👨‍👩‍👦⁠
⁠
I love using a mixed palette of materials here, and I’m finally getting clients brave enough to try out new ideas and make their gardens unique! ⁠
⁠
This garden will stand out on their street and have lots of seasonal interest! Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below 💚⁠
Flowers bloom boldly, yet they ask for very little Flowers bloom boldly, yet they ask for very little. They brighten gardens, tables, and hearts. Their fleeting beauty reminds us to pause, breathe, and appreciate what’s right in front of us. ⁠
⁠
Like flowers, women often hold the world together, nurturing, growing, and showing up even in the most challenging conditions.⁠
⁠
What’s truly powerful is how flowers, like women, are never just one thing. Some are soft and delicate, others wild, bright, and untamed. Some thrive in the spotlight, others in quiet corners. Some bloom early, some take their time—but all bring richness, colour, and life to the spaces they touch. 🌼⁠
⁠
Both women and flowers deserve to be celebrated in the garden and life, not just for their beauty, but for their resilience, diversity, and ability to bring joy simply by being. Here’s to the beauty that blooms, nurtures, inspires and endures. 💐✨⁠
⁠
Tag a woman who reminds you of a flower—and tell her how much she brightens your world. 💚👇⁠
Winter might seem like a quiet time in the garden. Winter might seem like a quiet time in the garden... but behind the scenes, there’s plenty you can do to give your outdoor space a little TLC ❄️🌿⁠
⁠
Think of it as the garden’s self-care season – time to rest, recharge, and prep for a strong comeback in spring 💪⁠ Here are a few easy winter garden care tips:⁠
⁠
🌱 Mulch like a pro – A thick layer of Mulch protects roots from frost, keeps moisture in and keeps weeds out. It’s a cosy blanket for your plants!⁠
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✂️ Prune and tidy – Winter is the perfect time to prune many deciduous trees and shrubs. Just check what looks like a winter haircut— and what doesn’t!⁠
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🌼 Plan and plant – Got big garden dreams? Winter is the time to plan them out. And don’t forget, some stars like hellebores and camellias bloom through the chill!⁠
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Even on the coldest days, the garden still has magic—sometimes it’s quieter. What’s your go-to winter garden ritual? Let me know below! 👇⁠
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To read more about winter garden care, head to my blog:⁠
https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/winter-garden-care/⁠

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📸Burwood East project, completed 2019
🎨✨ Murals: More Than Just Art on a Wall! ✨🎨⁠
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Ever walked past a vibrant, larger-than-life mural and felt an instant mood boost? That’s the magic of colour and design at work! 🌈💫⁠
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Murals aren’t just eye-catching — they tell stories, evoke emotions, and transform spaces in ways that plain walls never could. ⁠
⁠
A bold, geometric design can energise a space, while soft pastels create a calm atmosphere. Even a splash of unexpected colour can shift your mood, spark creativity, and make a space feel alive!⁠
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In gardens, murals can add depth, personality, and a touch of the unexpected. Imagine a botanical masterpiece behind your outdoor seating or a dreamy sky scene extending your space beyond its borders. The possibilities are endless! 🌿🖌️⁠
⁠
Beyond aesthetics, murals also bring communities together. A striking public artwork can turn a blank wall into a local landmark, sparking conversation and connection. ⁠Look at this one in the picture - it’s near an ice creamery in Sorrento, and it caught my eye!⁠
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Whether it’s a personal mural in your backyard or a large-scale piece in your neighbourhood, these creations have the power to inspire and unite. ❤️🎭⁠
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How do colours and murals influence your mood? Let’s chat in the comments! 👇🎨⁠

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📸Mural, Sorrento
Totally in love with some of the concepts and desi Totally in love with some of the concepts and designs at MIFGS 2025 (Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show). ⁠
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I’ve been musing about what I like about this year’s garden show and how it resonates with my design, thoughts, and feelings about the gardens I create.⁠ I’ve narrowed it down to this, even though I took almost 1,000 pictures that day! ⁠
⁠
I love gardens that are rich in culture and have an incredible story. I also love gardens that have something fun or unexpected and enjoy them immensely, no matter how quirky or unusual. As long as it’s achievable, the garden should be highly personalised to the person it is being created for. ⁠
⁠
It has to be a curated space that makes my clients smile or ponder, allowing them to enjoy every moment spent in their garden.⁠ Below is a selection of gardens presented at this year’s show that represent that!
⁠
Pic 1 - How gorgeously vibrant is that fluorescent pink? I’m not one to shy away from using bright colours in designs, but I love how this was used to exemplify the cultural aspect of colour in creating a Spanish garden. ⁠
📸Avenue of Achievable gardens⁠
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Pic 2 shows a gorgeous pop of colour and the unexpected use of the Japanese Kintsugi concept (gold repair). A pink fluorescent lighting strip around the windows is subtle but quite fun. ⁠
⁠
I loved seeing the Venus flytrap in the planting palette! Something I’ve associated with one of the designers involved in this project. It seems to be something that I find quirky and cool! ⁠
📸Boutique gardens⁠
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Pic 3 - The pink accents come through in this garden, reminding me of a season I love - Autumn. I love how dreamy and inviting this looks, and how it will create movement through the garden⁠
📸Border gardens⁠
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Pic 4 - Insect hotels⁠
📸Border gardens⁠
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Pic 5 - Fun shapes and colours⁠
📸Welcome garden⁠
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Pic 6 - Fun use of shapes and practicality⁠
📸Paul Pritchard, Show garden⁠
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Pic 7 - Cultural story of family, ties with Africa and memories of childhood⁠
📸Avenue of Achievable gardens⁠
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Pic 8 - Texture, calming and practicality⁠
📸Christian Jenkins, Show garden⁠
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Simple Winter Ideas to Transform Your Garden - Inspiring Landscape Solutions