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Top view of large bromeliad used in Doncaster East landscape design

Bromeliads

March 28, 2017
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Plants
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12 Comments
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Posted by Parveen

Coming from the tropics I love colour and a lush green look.  There are many that tick these boxes but I have found Bromeliads to be the most versatile.  They have varied texture from soft to hard/serrated and come on all sort of colours and fun patterns such as spots!  It has been fun learning about them over the years and implementing them in my garden designs.  I found them easy to incorporate in many types and styles of gardens and are best of all, fuss free.  Of course like any other plant, it does need a little TLC[1] over time, but which plant doesn’t?  There are also subtle tricks of the trade like getting them to flower when the conditions aren’t right, but it’s simple enough to remedy.

 

So what are wonderful bromeliads?

 

Bromeliads are members of a plant family known as Bromeliaceae.  The family contains over 3000 described species in approximately 56 genera[2]. One of its members is my all-time favourite fruit, the pineapple!  Ananas Comosus … YUM!!!  The family contains a wide range of plants including some very un-pineapple like members such as Spanish Moss (Tillandsia usneoides). Other members resemble aloes or yuccas (eg Dyckias and Hechtias) while still others look like green, leafy grasses (eg Pitcairnias).

They are found in a variety of growing situations:

Terrestrial species are found growing in the ground – either in bright sun along sandy beaches to the shady understory of a forest.

Saxicolous species are found growing on rocks or on sheer cliff faces.

Epiphytic species are found growing on other plants such as trees, shrubs or cactus or even on man-made objects such as telephone poles or telephone lines! The latter type take their nutrition and moisture from the atmosphere and are hence aptly named “Air Plants”.

 

Versatile plants

 

So you get the idea that they are very versatile and well suited to Melbourne’s fickly weather.  The trick though is to use the right type for the right conditions and then you’ll have a relatively low-fuss plant to either add interest to your outdoor or indoor garden.  For example, I’ve found neoregelia’s[3] to be the hardiest in the sun whilst bilbergia’s and aechmae[4]’s seem to take to partial shade and shade better.  Guzmania’s need shelter from winds especially cold and/or frosts but if you do manage to succeed with them[5], the flower bracts are well worth it as they are AMAZING!!

I’ve found bromeliads to be good companion plants too to just that little something more visually to the garden – and the bonus is that they are not as short lived as some tropical plants and are there for you to enjoy all year round, unlike perennials.

 

An example

 

Here’s a photo of a random tropical garden I’ve put together to remind me of my parent’s own garden when I was growing up.  They were keen gardeners so I remember their garden to be haphazard at best but full of many interesting plants and textures.  Eye candy for me!  This particular patch faces the children’s bedroom window so they have a birds-eye view of it when they get up in the morning.

Vermont South A

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Vermont South A

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As you can see there is a heavy emphasis on foliage shape and colour.[6]  I have always had a fondness for foliage plants, particularly variegated, random coloured etc.  It always pays to have a little fun and in your planning, to add a seasonal flair so that the garden doesn’t end up looking the same every season in the year!  Don’t be afraid to experiment though. If it looks and feels right, then stick with what you’ve put together.  However, you do need consider the maintenance and nutrition requirements of your pairings as you don’t want to end up pairing plants of on opposite sides of the spectrum together.  You might end up losing both![7]

Check out the following examples of what broms are available out there:

bromeliad7

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bromeliad5

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Bromeliad1

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With rare exceptions, bromeliads only flower a single time – once the plant stops producing leaves and produces its flower, it will not start making leaves again. It will, however, vegetatively produce new plantlets called “offsets” or “pups”, ie ‘free’ plants therefore allowing you to expand your garden, slowly, on a budget!  These plants will feed off the “mother” plant until they are large enough to set roots of their own and survive as a separate plant. The mother may sometimes survive a generation or two before finally dying off. Pups are usually produced near the base of the plant – inside the sheath of a leaf.[8]

bromeliad6

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bromeliad9

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bromeliad4

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bromeliad3

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bromeliad2

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Doncaster East

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Maintenance guide

 

I’ve put together a quick maintenance guide for the benefit of my clients which I thought to share here in case I’ve tempted you to experiment with broms!:

Do’s

Dont’s

Water the middle bract but ensure it’s clean water and doesn’t stagnate Fertilise in the middle bract and in winter.  Epsom salts (Magnesium sulfate) or slow release fertiliser should do the trick and just half or quarter of the recommended strength should do as they don’t need much
Use well-draining potting mix Remove pups in winter as they won’t root well.  Cut off with a clean knife
Place plant with ripe apple to encourage flowering (if it fails to bloom on its own) Give up on it!
Planting positions – in general (although there are exceptions): “Soft leaf – soft light, hard leaf – hard light.” Plant in the wrong spot – Watch your plant for bleaching, legginess, burns, colour loss.  Watch weather conditions eg frost, winds etc. Move to alternative area
Use rubbing alcohol to control pests.  The main pests of bromeliads are scale and mealy bugs Use oil based insecticides

 

Hope you have fun gardening and enjoy the outdoors.  Nature is inspiring and beautiful!!  Feel free to drop me a line as per below if you’re just as passionate about plants as I am!

 

Notes:

 

[1] Tender Loving Care

[2] So I’ll only mention a few popular ones here!

[3] General statement – not all variants!

[4] Some though like the sun.  Be sure to read up on the plant before you buy and plant!

[5] Best indoors, in Melbourne although I have successfully planted them outdoors near a sheltered north facing wall.

[6] The bromeliads I’ve used here are commonly known as matchstick bromeliads.  The neoregelia is in the picture to the right.

[7] For example, pairing a bromeliad with a heavy feeder.

[8] Sometimes, however, pups may be produced on long stolons or atop the inflorescence (flower spike) of the mother plant.  The green, leafy top of a pineapple is in fact a pup that may be removed and planted to start a new plant.

Some useful links!

Bromeliad plant care

Our other write ups that would be of interest are faux plants and proteas.

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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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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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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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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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📸Between Moments, by Ben Hutchinson, MIFGS 2025
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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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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!
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✅ 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.⁠
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Irrigation isn’t just a summer task — year-round care keeps your garden resilient and ready to thrive come spring! 🌱❄️⁠
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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.⁠
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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
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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.⁠
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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.⁠
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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. ⁠
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On a cultural level, gardens have long been places of gathering, reflection, ritual, and renewal.⁠
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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. ⁠
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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!!! 👨‍👩‍👦⁠
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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! ⁠
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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. ⁠
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Like flowers, women often hold the world together, nurturing, growing, and showing up even in the most challenging conditions.⁠
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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. 🌼⁠
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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. 💐✨⁠
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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 ❄️🌿⁠
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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:⁠
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🌱 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. ⁠
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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! 🌿🖌️⁠
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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! ⁠
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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. ⁠
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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!
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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. ⁠
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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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