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Aphids on helleborus. Landscape design Melbourne by Inspiring Landscape Solutions

Aphids – a friend or a foe?

October 8, 2019
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Maintenance, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen

With spring well underway, I’m sure you’ve come across them.  Swarms of soft bodied insects swarming around and eventually ruining your young buds.

They are present in my garden too.  Used to attack my roses but much less now, having implemented some preventative measures discussed below.  However, they still attack my hellebores!

Here’s some insights into what aphids are and what you should consider when dealing with them.

What are aphids?

Aphids are generally small round bodied insects which are sometimes referred to as plant lice, blackfly or greenfly.  They are usually 1 – 2 mm long, although some can grow larger.  Different species have different colours but I’ve only seen the green species in my garden attacking both my roses and my hellebores.

Why are aphids a problem for your garden

Aphids have piercing or sucking mouthparts with which they withdraw sap from plants.  They prefer soft plant material in the form of new shoots and buds.  Some species feed on older leaves and they are usually found underneath them.

Aphid garden pest in Melbourne. Garden advice by Inspiring Landscape Design

Given that essential water and nutrients are being sucked away by the aphids, leaves and shoots fed on by aphids may wilt and become twisted and curled.  Buds fed by aphids may not open at all or may produce distorted flowers.  For fruit producing plants, a loss of healthy buds means a loss of delicious fruit and we don’t want that!

Some aphids are even more sinister, they carry viruses which spread diseases from plant to plant and extend their attack to other above ground parts of the plant and root systems.  The Black peach aphid (Brachycaudus persicae) is such a pest.

Although aphids generally lay eggs, some species are also capable of giving birth to living young.  Therefore, large populations build up relatively quickly.  When the colony increases in numbers and the shoot or bud becomes crowded, some winged forms develop and these aphids can fly to other plants or other parts of the same plant.  So an infestation that starts on one plant may spread quickly throughout the garden!

Aphids also produce honeydew, a sticky substance which falls from the end of the aphid’s digestive tract on to anything beneath.  This usually makes leaves and fruit sticky and provides a food supply for fungi called sooty mould which develops into a black coating over leaves, stems and fruit.  Aside from being unsightly the sooty mould can block sunlight to leaves and reduce plant vigour in severe cases.

Ants and other insects are also attracted by the honeydew.  Ants collect, or “milk”, honeydew directly from the aphids, which benefit from their presence due to their driving away predators such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps (refer further below).

How to identify if you have an aphid problem

Check your plants often as a matter of routine – My sincere advice to all my clients is to venture out into your garden at least once every 2 weeks to not only immerse yourselves in its beauty but to also check on whether your plants are going ok.  If you can do that more often, your garden’s health will be better off as things change in your garden, quickly.

Seasonal impacts – Pay close attention during the warmer months as pests such as aphids rely on heat to multiply.  The first signs of aphids usually appear in early spring when the weather starts warming up and as there’s plenty of soft food material around.

How to – Inspect the top of young buds, shoots and young leaves for signs of aphids.  As an added precaution, do also inspect other parts of the same plant too to see if they are also present.  You’ll be able to see them immediately as there will be many of them swarming on just that one bit of plant material.  Visually inspect any neighbouring plants and see if they are showing any signs of stress.  Perform the same inspection on them to see if they are infected.  Even if they are not, a preventative measure would be to treat them with seasol to de-stress the plants so that the aphids don’t opportunistically attack it given that it’s in a weakened state.

Aphid garden pest in Melbourne. Garden advice by Inspiring Landscape Design

Step-by-step instructions for getting rid of aphids

Go organic – You can either go the organic way and plant scented herbs such as fennel, coriander and dill or flowering plants like geraniums, marigolds, sweet alyssum and yarrows (achillea) which lure beneficial insects like ladybugs to wander in and stay in your garden but this is a long term measure.  These beneficial insects and others such as parasitic wasps, beetles, hoverflies and lacewings naturally prey on aphids.

It is quite an effective method though if you’re not keen

on introducing chemicals into your garden.  I’ve trialled it on my own roses and have not had an aphid infestation for many years.  However, I do have a limited infestation on my hellebores which are located in another part of my garden and are quite naturally susceptible to aphid attacks in early summer anyway.

The other thing to be mindful off when applying the above method is that you may also have to bolster it with (i) hosing the plant down with water to “wash” off the aphids as best you can, (ii) plant decoy plants such as the nasturtium which aphids love to devour and (iii) having effective ant control – that is if you’ve got the presence of ants accompanying the aphids infestation.  The activities of ants running up and down the plant may discourage any predatory behaviour and therefore reduce the effectiveness of the natural control outlined above.

Chemical based – The other way is to spray the affected plants with a proprietary systematic insecticide as soon as the infestation in noticed and repeat as directed by the manufacturer.  A gentler approach through (and less harmful to beneficial insects) is to use a home-made spray made up of normal dish washing soap and water.  You may have to repeat daily though to effectively control the infestation this way.

The systematic insecticide will harm beneficial insects such as the ladybug but the dish soap shouldn’t.

Other Inspiration

Hungry for more information on aphids?

Then check out the following articles!

Aphids (Inside a Colony)

Aphids a rapidly producing problem

Aphid Control

In the meantime, do visit my past projects!

Bundoora

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Burwood

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Blackburn

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If you need further garden advice on plant health, garden maintenance or design tips for both indoors and outdoors, please contact us for an onsite 90 minute consultation. 

Refer to our packages for further detail on how we can help you in the consults and subsequently throughout your garden implementation process.

Do check out our articles on roses and hellebores.

Our passion your garden! xx

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Berwick Garden:⁠ ⁠ Following on from my post o Berwick Garden:⁠
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Following on from my post on this project a couple of days back, I thought to write a little more on this project and to give you all a further glimpse into my lovely client’s new outdoors!⁠
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To recap: The challenge here was to create a space that was inviting and creative and also address the level differences. I especially love the pathway design and the surrounding retaining walls - mild steel and rendered. ⁠
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The beige pavers used were something I’d like to explore using more in other designs, as they ended up tying the design together quite nicely. ⁠
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We retained the birch tree as it was such a nice existing feature of the garden, and absolutely love how it sways gently in the wind! ⁠
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What do you think of this design? How does it make you feel? 💚
The key for my clients in Berwick was to have a ga The key for my clients in Berwick was to have a garden that had a calming effect and also looked contemporary. The rest of the house is a fairly Hamptons-style house on the interior, but the same feel was not reflected out onto the existing garden, so my brief was to recreate that feel throughout the outdoors too. ⁠
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My lovely client also wanted a reflective spot in the rear garden where she could sit and relax with her cup of tea, enjoy the rays of sunshine and be immersed in her garden.  So we came up with a significantly white and green plant palette with a few purple flowers thrown in to lend to the calming effect. ⁠
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When I visited her 6 months post construction the first thing she shared with me was that she loved also viewing the space from inside the house, especially from her kitchen window.  She also loved how we had retained her old birch tree and that she can now clearly see the leaves moving gently in the breeze that flows through her garden!⁠
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I’m really happy with how this design turned out and, more importantly, that she loves being in her new space.  Now I’m looking forward to tackling her front garden soon in 2024!  Can’t wait!!! 💚
Finding moments of tranquility and self-discovery Finding moments of tranquility and self-discovery is precious in a world always buzzing with activity. And what better way to escape the chaos than by immersing yourself in the world of gardening? ⁠
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Here's why gardening is a wonderful path to losing yourself and finding a sense of serenity:⁠
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💚 Step into your garden, and suddenly, the world fades away. The touch of soil, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle hum of life around you create a soothing haven. It's a space where time slows down, and you can be fully present in the moment.⁠
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💚 Gardening is a mindfulness journey. As you tend to plants, your focus shifts from worries to the task. Your breath's rhythm aligns with nature's rhythm, grounding you in the here and now.⁠
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💚 Gardens don't flourish overnight, teaching you the beauty of patience. Witnessing your plants' slow and steady growth instils a sense of fulfilment that's hard to find in our fast-paced lives.⁠
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If you're seeking a way to lose yourself and discover the simple joys of existence, take a stroll into your garden. 🌿 ⁠
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Let the earth between your fingers and the whispers of the wind rejuvenate your soul. Have you experienced the transformative power of gardening? Share your thoughts and stories below! 👇
This is what the Vietnamese call crazy paving, a c This is what the Vietnamese call crazy paving, a cute idea of including decorative tiles. ⁠
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A little bit eclectic and a whole lot of fun!  Not to mention a good effort to upcycle and avoid waste!⁠
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If you've been thinking of including decorative tiles in your outdoor space but want to make sure that they last, here are a couple of tips for you:⁠
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💚Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, algae, and other contaminants on the tiles. Sweep the tiles first, then hose down. If they've got some stains on them, make sure you only use a mild detergent and not any harsh chemicals that will damage the tiles.⁠
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💚 Sealing outdoor decorative tiles can help protect them from moisture, stains, and the effects of weather. There are different sealers for ceramic and natural stone, so make sure you select the most suitable one. ⁠
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By regularly cleaning and sealing outdoor decorative tiles, you can help protect them from the elements and maintain their beauty for years to come.⁠
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Do you have any decorative tiles in your garden? If so, I would love to see some photos of them 💚⁠
Inspiration for design comes in many forms. Under Inspiration for design comes in many forms.

Understanding the context, culture and historical significance of a particular component of design is key towards getting a custom result and one that is highly meaningful to you!

This is the Lotus motif in the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, Vietnam. It’s a motif that will feature in a design I’m going to tackle for a lovely family in Rosanna! 

The lotus is the national flower of Vietnam and holds a special place in Vietnamese culture. It represents purity, optimism, and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.⁠

💚 The lotus flower holds profound cultural and symbolic significance in many other Asian cultures too. Its symbolism varies slightly from culture to culture but generally centers around similar themes - purity, enlightenment, rebirth, and spiritual growth.⁠

💚 The lotus is a deeply important symbol in some religions that plays an important role in the daily lives of people that live in Asia eg Buddhism and Hinduism. It has similar meanings to the above mentioned cultural contexts as it represents spiritual awakening. The unfolding petals are seen as a metaphor for the soul's spiritual journey from ignorance to enlightenment.⁠
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💚 In Ancient Egypt, the blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea), held a sacred status too. It was associated with the sun, creation, and again, rebirth. The lotus was often depicted in Egyptian art and featured prominently in religious rituals and architecture.⁠
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Does the lotus flower hold a special meaning in your culture? Do let us know in the comments below 👇️
Nagami Cumquats are a delightful addition to any g Nagami Cumquats are a delightful addition to any garden or indoor space, boasting glossy leaves and vibrant orange fruits that pack a tangy punch. To keep these beauties flourishing, here are some essential tips:⁠
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💚 Place your Nagami Cumquat in a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. These sun-soaked hours are essential for healthy growth and bountiful fruiting.⁠
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💚 Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again. During the growing season (spring through summer) ensure that you water adequately.⁠
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💚 Regularly prune dead or unhealthy branches to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning after fruiting helps rejuvenate the tree.⁠
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Let's embrace the joys of nurturing our Nagami Cumquat trees! Share your own citrus-growing experiences, tips, and photos in the comments below. Together, we'll cultivate a citrus paradise. 🍃🍊
Although most of my designs are fluid and bear a c Although most of my designs are fluid and bear a complexity of colour and texture, I also love using minimalistic elements where I can.⁠
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This garden (not mine) is very calming to me.  In moments of anxiety and stress, I will find myself going into this space as it promotes contemplation, and the simple 3 layers of planting promote a sense of pause and reflection (to me).⁠
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I love how the paving just falls into space and how manicured and perfect the hedging is.  I know it's not a long term garden I want to be in (as I like the chaos of colour and texture, which to me is celebratory of life), but this is something that appeals in the short term.⁠
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Have you thought about gardens this way?  How do you feel when you see this picture? ⁠
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Do share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. 💚⁠
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This photo is of a stunning mural I came across an This photo is of a stunning mural I came across and from memory it’s located close to Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.⁠
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Murals hold significant cultural and historical importance in a country's culture. They played various roles in the country's rich history, and their significance can be seen in several aspects:⁠
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🎨 Murals serve as a visual representation of the nation's cultural heritage, preserving and sharing it with future generations.⁠
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🎨 Murals have been used to document significant historical events and stories, both ancient and modern. They can be found in temples, pagodas, and communal houses, where they illustrate pivotal moments in history.⁠
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🎨 The creation of murals often involves the local community. Painting murals can be a communal activity that brings people together, fosters a sense of pride and ownership, and strengthens social bonds.⁠
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What's your favourite mural? Share it with us in the comments below. 💚
It's a sanctuary of natural beauty where colours, It's a sanctuary of natural beauty where colours, shapes, and fragrances come together in perfect harmony. The gentle sway of the leaves, the vibrant blooms, and the symphony of birdsong create a haven that soothes the spirit and rejuvenates the soul.⁠
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In a garden, you can find peace and tranquillity, a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's a canvas of life's wonders, a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, and a source of inspiration for creativity and reflection.⁠
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Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply an admirer of nature's artistry, a garden offers a timeless connection to the earth and a sanctuary where you can find solace, joy, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us. 🌻🌳✨⁠
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Explore our portfolio at www.inspiringlandscapes.com.au and let us create a garden that becomes your personal sanctuary. 🏡🌱⁠
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I absolutely love the texture of the creeping juni I absolutely love the texture of the creeping juniper. It looks even better close-up and you can almost imagine how it feels just by looking at a good pic of it! ⁠
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Here are two tips to help you maintain it:⁠
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💚 Regular pruning: use pruning shears or hedge trimmers to selectively trim back the branches. Pruning should be done in early spring or late winter to encourage new growth and for a tidyup. Avoid cutting too far back into the woody parts of the plant, as junipers may not regenerate from old wood.⁠ So be selective on the species and chose the one that suits the size of your area well.⁠
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💚 Creeping junipers thrive in well-drained soil. If your soil doesn't naturally drain well, consider amending it with sand or organic matter to improve drainage. Raised beds can also be a good option for ensuring proper drainage.⁠
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Additionally, it's important to note that creeping junipers are generally low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. They are hardy plants that can withstand a variety of growing conditions.⁠ Do give them a try!⁠
Bringing the outdoors in. ⁠ ⁠ There are many w Bringing the outdoors in. ⁠
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There are many ways to and this is one of mine!⁠
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This wall is one of my favourite ones in my house and it's a work in progress!  Currently it showcases artwork by the lovely Sas from Red Banksia, plus prints I had framed of birdlife I love!! I’m so happy I get to wake up to this every morning!!! ⁠
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What's your favourite artwork that you have in your house? Let us know in the comments below 💚
Dive into the world of botanical beauty with Rhodo Dive into the world of botanical beauty with Rhododendrons and Camellias.🌿 ⁠
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I know that some landscape designers have the practice of nuking all of these ageless beauties and starting completely anew but I love to work with existing plants as much as I can.  And thankfully enough, most of my clients agree to doing this!⁠
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They are then amply rewarded by magnificent blooms that grace their gardens with abundant colour and timeless charm! ⁠
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These beautiful flowers are only a selected few that exist in my lovely Glen Iris client's garden: a beautiful garden for a beautiful soul!! 💓⁠
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We were so happy we retained and worked around all of these plants as they brought life to what would have been a newly established garden so she's got plenty to enjoy whilst her newer plants are growing!⁠
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Whether you're an avid gardener or simply adore the wonders of nature, these plants add a touch of enchantment to any landscape. ⁠
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Which one captures your heart - the bold Rhododendron or the classic Camellia? Please do share your floral preferences below! ⁠
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And if you have any rarer varieties, please also do share pictures of them as I'd so love to see them!💚
I love exploring different cultures and different I love exploring different cultures and different ideas on my travels.⁠
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Here's an example of a colour combination that works, in my view!  It's a random shot I took from a bus touring Hanoi, Vietnam and I loved the contrast between the aqua green window panes and the peach hues of the building.⁠
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Besides being obvious about the choices of choosing the colour of the structures in your outdoors, wonder how you can use this inspo  in your garden design? Here are a few ideas for you:⁠
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💚 Plan your garden with a mix of plants that bloom or exhibit vibrant foliage in different seasons. This ensures that you have colour year-round.⁠ Think about the different colour combinations.  As you can see, aqua and peach works well!⁠
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💚 Decorative elements like colourful garden sculptures, painted birdhouses, or vibrant outdoor furniture can inject colour into your outdoor space and serve as focal points.⁠
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💚 Consider rotating your garden's colour palette seasonally. For example, you can have a spring garden with pastel colours, a summer garden with vibrant reds and oranges, and an autumn garden with warm yellows and oranges.⁠
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How do you like to inject colour into your outdoor space? Please do share some photos with us in the comments below 💚
Celebrating natural beauty, along with a connectio Celebrating natural beauty, along with a connection to the earth and discovering fascinating formations! ⁠
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The caves in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, hold significant cultural and historical importance, and they are integral to the region's identity. Here are some aspects of their cultural significance:⁠
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🦇 Ha Long Bay's caves are often associated with local myths and legends. The name "Ha Long" translates to "Descending Dragon," and it's believed that the bay was formed by dragons sent by the gods to protect Vietnam from invaders. The caves are seen as the dragon's lairs.⁠
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🦇 The caves in Ha Long Bay are natural wonders that showcase the beauty of Vietnam's landscapes. They have become symbols of the country's natural heritage and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994.⁠
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Aren't the rock formations stunning?  They reminded me of the Batcave and bats, but it's not that scary and there were no bats!!! 🦇🦇
Gardening is a deeply enriching and transformative Gardening is a deeply enriching and transformative experience that allows people to grow in various ways—physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually.⁠
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💚 Physical Growth: Gardening involves physical activity such as digging, planting, weeding, and harvesting. Consuming fresh, organic produce from your garden can lead to better nutrition and overall wellbeing.⁠
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💚 Mental Growth: Gardening requires patience as plants grow at their own pace. This teaches individuals to wait, observe, and appreciate the slow but steady progress in their garden, which can be a valuable lesson in a fast-paced world.⁠
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💚 Emotional Growth: Gardening fosters a deeper connection with the natural world. This connection can lead to increased empathy and a greater sense of responsibility toward the environment.⁠
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Do you feel that you have grown alongside your garden?💚
Bentleigh East project, May 2023. ⁠ ⁠ A stunni Bentleigh East project, May 2023. ⁠
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A stunning image of Dwarf lavender species in bloom. This plant is probably the star of this garden and one that my client's absolutely adore!  It's such a delightful sight in full bloom and looking at the bees and butterflies all abuzz around it!⁠
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One of my first impressions of Melbourne was this lovely plant!  I only found it in potpourri's in KL, where I grew up and wondered how the plant actually looks like in real life.  I've always found the the smell of lavender divine! I've even gone as far as gulping down huge amounts of lavender ice cream and lavender infused honey.  OMG!!! So yummy!! ⁠
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If you'd like to grow lavenders in your garden, there are a little high maintenance but so worth it! ⁠
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Here are three maintenance tips for you:⁠
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💜  All lavender, including dwarf varieties, thrive in well-drained soil. Make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.⁠
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💜 Lavender is a sun-loving plant, so it needs plenty of sunlight to flourish. Ensure your dwarf lavender receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.⁠ It doesn't grow well in shade and gets really leggy as it reaches out for the sun!⁠
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💜 Prune your lavender in the spring or after it finishes blooming to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming too woody.⁠ Keep it bushy even if it means you have to sacrifice some flowers.  It's well worth it!⁠
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Do you have your own lavender in your garden? Please do take some photos and share them in the comments so we can send some love  your way or let us know what your favourite ones are!! 💜
Nestled within the heart of Vietnam's spiritual la Nestled within the heart of Vietnam's spiritual landscape is the awe-inspiring Sleeping Buddha statue. This magnificent sculpture captures the essence of tranquillity, reminding us of the importance of inner reflection and mindfulness in our fast-paced lives.⁠
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With its majestic reclining posture, the Sleeping Buddha exudes an aura of serenity felt by all who visit. The intricate details, from the serene expression to the gentle folds of robes, are a testament to the craftsmanship and devotion that went into its creation.⁠
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As we gaze upon the Sleeping Buddha, we're reminded to find stillness within ourselves amidst the chaos of the world. Just like the Buddha's peaceful slumber, we too can find moments of respite and awakening, nurturing our minds and spirits.⁠
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Beyond its tranquil message, this statue also invites us to explore the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam's spiritual heritage. It's where tradition, nature, and spirituality intertwine, leaving us with a profound sense of connection to the earth and the divine.⁠
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Have you had the privilege of witnessing the Sleeping Buddha's grace in person? Share your stories, photos, and the emotions they awakened within you. Let's celebrate the beauty of Vietnam's cultural treasures and the wisdom they impart. 💚
One of the perks of buying an older house is that One of the perks of buying an older house is that it usually comes with somewhat of an established garden.  Mine came with many plants and many formed the backbone of my redesign of the garden.  Choices had to be made as to which plants were keepers and which were not!⁠
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Keeping this vivid red azalea was a no brainer! 🌺 ⁠
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When in flower this mesmerizing plant thrills me each time I turn into the driveway, in Spring!  Whoever planted this plant in that spot definitely loved being greeted by it too! ⁠
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I don't have as many azaleas in my garden as I find it a little hard maintenance wise for me.  Whilst I love the vibrant blooms on these, I can't keep with the sprays I've got to put on the leaves of the plants to prevent pest attack.  My neighbours on the other hand keep on top of this and their plants are amazing when in bloom and have vibrant blooms in an array of colours, from soft pastels to other bold, eye-catching hues. All of their leaves don't look diseased c.f. mine! 🫣⁠
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I think though if you have a little more time on your hands, I would have a couple at most in a garden for the sake of the amazing spring flush of flowers but otherwise prefer the inclusion of less fussy plants into my garden schemes - ie those that you plant and forget (most of the time). ⁠
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What's your experience been with this plant?  Please do share below!💚
These gorgeous tiles were at a wharf in Vietnam, b These gorgeous tiles were at a wharf in Vietnam, but I'd like to discuss the advantages of using tiles for your outdoors. They can transform your living spaces into something truly exceptional.⁠
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 💚 Tiles are built to withstand the test of time. They're resistant to wear, moisture, and daily wear and tear, making them a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas like entryways, alfresco or roofed cabanas, for example. Enjoy the beautiful outdoors that stay beautiful!⁠
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💚 Whether your style is sleek and modern or classic and intricate, tiles offer an array of design options. From mosaic patterns to contemporary neutrals, you can unleash your creativity and craft spaces that reflect your unique personality.⁠
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💚 In warmer climates, tiles stay refreshingly cool underfoot, offering relief on scorching days.⁠
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💚 Tiles aren't just for floors; they can grace your walls, and add special detail to what otherwise could be a boring space! Imagine the beauty of a tiled accent wall with a stunning mosaic inlay – the possibilities are limitless!⁠
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So, whether you're renovating, building anew, or simply looking to refresh your space, consider the transformative power of tiles. Embrace beauty, durability, and design versatility all in one swoop. Your dream outdoors awaits!⁠ 💚⁠
Gothic architecture is a testament to human creati Gothic architecture is a testament to human creativity and devotion, from the towering cathedrals to the intricate details. Its soaring spires and intricate stone traceries transport us to a time of grandeur and spiritual significance.⁠
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The pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses aren't just structural elements; they're expressions of a cultural movement that shaped Europe's landscapes. ⁠
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The play of light through stained glass windows paints stories of faith and folklore across the stone canvases. The use of lighting in Gothic architecture is of paramount importance due to its transformative impact on the atmosphere, symbolism, and visual experience of the spaces.⁠
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The manipulation of lighting created dramatic effects within Gothic structures. The interplay of light and shadow highlighted the intricate details of the architecture, making the spaces visually captivating. This contrast added depth and dimension to the interior, making it an immersive experience for visitors.⁠
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Share your favourite cathedrals, tales of medieval marvels, and the inspiration you draw from this captivating era.⁠ 💚⁠
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