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Main Portfolio
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MIFGS 2023
MIFGS 2023
MIFGS 2024
MIFGS 2024
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Garden

All the posts published

Recent Posts

When Landscape Designers and Architects Join Forces, Gardens Come Alive
Making Your Garden Wildlife-Friendly This Spring
Garden Design with a Flacking Twist
Simple Winter Ideas to Transform Your Garden
How to Use Artistic Expression in Garden Design

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inspiringlandscapes.com.au

🥦🍓 No backyard? No worries, your balcony can

🥦🍓 No backyard? No worries, your balcony can be a farm! 🍓🥦⁠
⁠
Think fresh strawberries for breakfast, crisp lettuce for lunch, and juicy tomatoes for dinner… all grown just a few steps from your kitchen. That’s the beauty of container gardening; it’s easy, space-friendly, and oh-so-rewarding. 🌱✨⁠
⁠
The truth is, you don’t need acres of land to enjoy homegrown goodness. With the right pots and a little know-how, you can grow a surprising variety of fruits and veggies in containers. From vibrant capsicums to sweet strawberries, leafy greens to dwarf citrus trees, your options are far juicier than you might think. 🍋🍅⁠
⁠
And the best part? Container gardens are:⁠
✅ Perfect for renters and small spaces⁠
✅ Easier to maintain than big garden beds⁠
✅ Great for experimenting with new produce⁠
⁠
🌟 We’ve rounded up 10 fruits and vegetables that thrive in pots; whether you’re working with a balcony, courtyard, or just a sunny windowsill.⁠
⁠
👉 Read the complete list in our latest blog: “Ten Fruits and Vegetables That Are Perfect for Container Gardening.”⁠
⁠
https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/ten-fruits-and-vegetables-perfect-for-container-gardening/⁠

Tips to help you smoothly transition from winter t

Tips to help you smoothly transition from winter to spring!⁠
⁠
Melbourne’s September weather is a tricky blend of sunny days and unexpected frosts, so here are a few tips to help you navigate the transition.⁠
⁠
💚 The “Heat Mat” Hack: Give your summer seedlings (tomatoes, capsicum, etc.) a head start! Instead of buying a fancy heat mat, place your punnets on top of a hot water service or in a sunny windowsill. This consistent warmth helps them grow strong before they encounter the cold garden soil. 🍅⁠
⁠
💚 Smart Companion Planting: Plant garlic or onions near your veggies to naturally deter pests. Add nasturtiums or marigolds to attract bees and beneficial insects that will pollinate your crops and prey on unwanted pests. It’s a win-win for a healthy garden ecosystem! 🧄⁠
⁠
💚 Citrus Gall Wasp Prevention: The citrus gall wasp is a common and frustrating pest in Melbourne, and September is a critical month for its management. A proactive and hands-on approach is key.⁠
⁠
Don’t let citrus gall wasps ruin your harvest! In September, “scalp” the galls on your citrus trees with a sharp knife. This exposes the larvae to the air, killing them and protecting your tree’s health without sacrificing a whole branch.⁠
⁠
What’s on your spring planting list this year?👩🏻‍🌾⁠

🔥🌿 When a plant can light up the darkest cor

🔥🌿 When a plant can light up the darkest corner of your garden, you know it’s something special … 🌿🔥⁠
⁠
Enter the clivia: a bold, brilliant burst of colour that transforms shady spaces into show-stopping displays. With their fiery orange, yellow, and red blooms, clivias don’t just sit quietly in the background. They demand attention, creating instant drama and joy in the garden.⁠
⁠
Clivias aren’t just beautiful, they’re a gift to the wildlife around us. Their trumpet-shaped flowers attract pollinators, while the lush green foliage provides shelter for small creatures.⁠
⁠
They are proof that plants can be more than just decoration; they’re mood-lifters, wildlife-attractors, and storytellers all in one. Whether you grow them in a shaded courtyard, beneath trees, or as a bold border, they’ll reward you with years of low-maintenance beauty and bursts of colour that never fail to impress.⁠
⁠
👉 If your garden has a shady spot waiting for a bit of magic, consider planting clivias. They’ll bring the glow, the wildlife, and the joy.⁠
⁠
📸Glen Iris project, 2022⁠

Small space design with a huge impact! Love it!!⁠
⁠
I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been busy working on a landscaping project in Oak Park, which kicked off the design phase in February 2024. This journey has been a delightful mix of challenges and successes, and I’m genuinely enjoying diving into the details of cozy spaces while crafting fresh ideas.⁠
⁠
My main goal is to create warm and welcoming areas. It’s crucial to balance the project’s wishes and needs, ensuring everything fits together seamlessly. This means taking a hands-on approach and being dedicated to making sure the visuals are just as stunning from inside the property.⁠
⁠
I’m also really excited to be using Castlemaine slate crazy paving in this design. It’s a bit different from my usual work, as I generally prefer bluestone, limestone, and granite, but it really aligns with my client’s vision! ⁠
⁠
The colour brings out his style perfectly and adds a fun vibe to the space. I can’t wait to add some vibrant touches that will create a lovely contrast with the subtle tones.⁠
⁠
📸Oak Park courtyard draft design, 2025⁠

💜 A field of sunflowers or lavender isn’t jus

💜 A field of sunflowers or lavender isn’t just a view … it’s an experience 💛⁠
⁠
There’s a reason people travel across the world to stand among endless rows of golden sunflowers or breathe in the calming fragrance of lavender fields. These landscapes aren’t just beautiful, they’re deeply cultural, symbolic, and soulful. 🌻🌿⁠
⁠
In many cultures, sunflowers represent joy, loyalty, and warmth. Their golden faces follow the sun, a daily reminder to seek light and positivity no matter what. Walk through a sunflower field, and you’ll feel it: the energy, the optimism, the simple happiness radiating around you.⁠
⁠
Meanwhile, lavender carries centuries of meaning. From Provence to the Mediterranean, it’s been celebrated for its healing, soothing, and cleansing properties. ⁠
⁠
A lavender field isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s a sanctuary. The colour, the scent, the hum of bees weaving through purple blooms … it’s peace in its purest form.⁠
⁠
Together, sunflowers and lavender tell a story of balance: the vibrant energy of joy and the calming presence of serenity. Standing in fields like these feels like being wrapped in the best of both worlds—uplifted yet grounded, alive at ease. 🌸⁠
⁠
👉 So here’s a thought: what if we carried that lesson into our own lives and gardens? A little joy, a little calm … sometimes that’s all we need.⁠

🌸✨ Spring isn’t just a season; it’s a fee

🌸✨ Spring isn’t just a season; it’s a feeling. ✨🌸⁠
⁠
The air softens, the light lingers longer, and suddenly the world feels alive again. And while Spring is beautiful everywhere, there’s something truly magical about experiencing it in a garden.⁠
⁠
This quote says it all. A garden in Spring is more than flowers and fresh leaves; it’s a reminder of renewal. It’s waking up to birdsong, catching the first whiff of jasmine on the breeze, and noticing how a bud becomes a bloom almost overnight. It’s slowing down long enough to witness life pushing forward, quietly but powerfully.⁠
⁠
And maybe that’s why gardens feel so grounding in Spring. They don’t rush. They don’t compare. They grow. Each plant, in its own time, adds beauty to the bigger picture. There’s something deeply comforting in that lesson, especially when the rest of life feels busy or overwhelming.⁠
⁠
So if you can and if you haven’t already, take time this Spring to step into a garden — whether it’s your own backyard, a neighbour’s flower patch, or a public park. Breathe it in. Notice the colours, the textures, the sounds. Let it remind you that new beginnings are always just around the corner. 🌸💚⁠
⁠
👉 How are you greeting Spring this year?⁠

🌿💚 “Forget fancy décor; indoor plants are

🌿💚 “Forget fancy décor; indoor plants are the real game-changers for your space and your wellbeing.” 💚🌿⁠
⁠
That’s the magic of indoor plants, and this week, we’re celebrating them for Indoor Plant Week! 🎉⁠
⁠
Beyond looking gorgeous on your desk, kitchen bench, or coffee table, indoor plants do so much more than we give them credit for:⁠
⁠
💚 They purify the air, making your home healthier to breathe in.⁠
💚 They boost mood and reduce stress (yes, even just looking at greenery can calm the mind).⁠
💚 They bring life and vibrancy to spaces that might otherwise feel flat or lifeless.⁠
💚 And let’s be honest—they make any room instantly more stylish.⁠
⁠
From the tough-as-nails snake plant to the lush peace lily or the ever-popular monstera, there’s an indoor plant for every space, lifestyle, and skill level (yes, even the so-called “black thumbs” 🌱😉).⁠
⁠
The best part? Indoor plants remind us to slow down. Watering, pruning, and watching them grow creates small, mindful moments that add up to something powerful: a deeper connection with nature, even when we’re indoors.⁠
⁠
👉 This Indoor Plant Week, why not add a little green to your life? Your mind, body, and home will thank you.⁠

💗Pink power in the garden? Say hello to the Lor

💗Pink power in the garden? Say hello to the Loropetalum Plum Gorgeous!💗⁠
⁠
Not every plant can pull off being both bold and elegant, but this one does it effortlessly. With its pink foliage and those playful, fringe-like flowers, it’s the kind of plant that makes you stop and say, “Wow … what is THAT?”⁠
⁠
This beauty is from my garden; it’s one of my favourite plants in the whole garden (and trust me, I have a lot of favourites).⁠
⁠
This stunner is hardy, low-maintenance, and adds year-round colour to your garden. Want to take it up a notch? Pair it with:⁠
⁠
🍁 Japanese maples for a dramatic red-and-purple combo in autumn.⁠
🌸 Azaleas or glossy-leaved camellias for layers of soft colour against that bold foliage.⁠
⁠
Together, they create a garden that feels lush, stylish, and effortlessly unique. Whether you grow it as a hedge, a feature shrub, or even in pots, this exceptional plant is guaranteed to turn heads.⁠
⁠
So, are you ready to let this beauty take centre stage in your garden? ✨⁠
⁠

🏡✨ Ever wondered why the most breathtaking ga

🏡✨ Ever wondered why the most breathtaking gardens and outdoor spaces feel so effortless? ✨🏡⁠
⁠
The secret isn’t just great design—it’s collaboration. When landscape designers and architects collaborate, something powerful happens: function and beauty merge seamlessly. 🌿⁠
⁠
👩‍💻 Architects bring structure, scale, and technical know-how.⁠
🎨 Landscape designers bring creativity, flow, and a deep understanding of plants and outdoor living.⁠
⁠
Together? They create spaces that not only look good, but also live well.⁠
⁠
From integrating a home’s architecture with its garden to balancing style with practicality, this partnership ensures every detail works in harmony. And the result? Outdoor spaces that feel natural, timeless, and tailored to the way you live.⁠
⁠
🌟 Curious how this collaboration can transform your own home and garden? Dive into our latest blog: “Why Landscape Designers and Architects Work Best Together.”⁠
⁠
👉 https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/when-landscape-gardeners-and-architects-join-forces-gardens-come-alive/⁠
⁠

Tips to help you smoothly transition from winter t

Tips to help you smoothly transition from winter to spring!⁠
⁠
Melbourne’s September weather is a tricky blend of sunny days and unexpected frosts, so here are a few tips to help you navigate the transition.⁠
⁠
💚 The “Heat Mat” Hack: Give your summer seedlings (tomatoes, capsicum, etc.) a head start! Instead of buying a fancy heat mat, place your punnets on top of a hot water service or in a sunny windowsill. This consistent warmth helps them grow strong before they encounter the cold garden soil. 🍅⁠
⁠
💚 Smart Companion Planting: Plant garlic or onions near your veggies to naturally deter pests. Add nasturtiums or marigolds to attract bees and beneficial insects that will pollinate your crops and prey on unwanted pests. It’s a win-win for a healthy garden ecosystem! 🧄⁠
⁠
💚 Citrus Gall Wasp Prevention: The citrus gall wasp is a common and frustrating pest in Melbourne, and September is a critical month for its management. A proactive and hands-on approach is key.⁠
⁠
Don’t let citrus gall wasps ruin your harvest! In September, “scalp” the galls on your citrus trees with a sharp knife. This exposes the larvae to the air, killing them and protecting your tree’s health without sacrificing a whole branch.⁠
⁠
What’s on your spring planting list this year?👩🏻‍🌾⁠

✨ Who says swings are just for kids? ✨⁠ ⁠

✨ Who says swings are just for kids? ✨⁠
⁠
There’s something magical about a swing hanging from a tree; simple, natural, and oh-so-inviting. Take this one, for example, I find it the silent hero of this design!🌳✨ ⁠
⁠
👧I can imagine kids racing to it with endless energy, and even the odd “grown-up” or two wouldn’t be able to resist wanting to take a turn. Because let’s be honest, aren’t we all still a little young at heart? ⁠
⁠
The joy doesn’t stop with the swing itself. A garden has a way of creating those small, unforgettable moments:⁠
⁠
🌿 The sound of kids laughing as they run around.⁠
🌸 Parents relaxing nearby, soaking in the sunshine.⁠
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Friends gathering under the tree, feeling the stress of the week melt away.⁠
🌞 Even a quiet solo moment on the swing with a cup of coffee can feel like pure bliss.⁠
⁠
Gardens aren’t just about plants; they’re about connection, fun, and those sparks of happiness that make life richer. And sometimes, all it takes is something as simple as a swing to remind us of the joy right outside our back door.⁠
⁠
So here’s your reminder: add a touch of play, a dash of comfort, or a pocket of calm to your garden; you’ll be surprised at the happiness it brings. 💚⁠

🌸Stop comparing. Start blooming.🌸⁠ ⁠ In

🌸Stop comparing. Start blooming.🌸⁠
⁠
In the garden, no flower wastes its energy worrying about being brighter, taller, or stronger than the one beside it. Each one grows into its full potential; together, they create something beautiful.⁠
⁠
But in life, we often get caught up in comparisons. Who’s achieving more, who looks more successful, who seems further ahead? The truth? Just like flowers, we’re not meant to be the same. Your journey, your timing, and your “bloom” are unique to you. 🌿⁠
⁠
Gardens remind us that variety is what makes them thrive. A single flower is lovely, but an entire bed of colours, shapes, and sizes? That’s breathtaking. And it’s the same with people; our diversity, our individuality, our different paths are what make the world richer.⁠
⁠
So here’s your gentle nudge today: stop looking sideways. Keep nurturing your own growth, keep leaning toward your own light, and trust that you’re blooming exactly as you’re meant to. 🌼💚⁠
⁠
🌟 This week, ask yourself: how can I water my own growth instead of comparing my garden to someone else’s?⁠

✨ Less work, more enjoyment; that’s the beauty

✨ Less work, more enjoyment; that’s the beauty of a minimalistic garden. ✨⁠
⁠
If you love the idea of spending time in your outdoor space but don’t want weekends consumed by endless weeding, mowing, or pruning, then a minimalist garden might be your perfect match.⁠
⁠
The key to a low-maintenance garden isn’t cutting corners—it’s making wise design choices. Think:⁠
⁠
🌱 Simple planting palettes with hardy, easy-to-care-for species.⁠
🌱 Groundcovers like pebbles or bark mulch to suppress weeds and reduce upkeep.⁠
🌱 Clean lines and open spaces that are practical and stylish.⁠
🌱Emphasising key visuals with low-maintenance options.⁠
⁠
That’s precisely what we delivered for our Blackburn project, where the client wanted an ultra-minimalistic design on a lean budget. We used pebbles along the side for a neat, modern finish and added bark in the garden beds to keep plant care as simple as possible. ⁠
⁠
The result? A space that looks fresh and polished year-round, with minimal effort required.⁠
⁠
Minimalistic gardens don’t just save time; they also create calming, clutter-free spaces where you can actually enjoy being outside instead of feeling like you’re tackling another to-do list.⁠
⁠
👉 Ready to simplify your garden? Start with durable materials, low-maintenance plants, and thoughtful design; it’s incredible how much easier (and more enjoyable) life outdoors can be.⁠
⁠
📸Blackburn project, July 2025 ⁠

♥️✨ Ever seen a ruby-coloured camellia? If n

♥️✨ Ever seen a ruby-coloured camellia? If not, you’re in for a treat ✨♥️⁠
⁠
This soft yet captivating shade isn’t just unusual; it’s unforgettable. It’s the kind of bloom that stops you mid-walk, makes you lean in closer, and leaves you wondering why you don’t see them more often.⁠
⁠
And I’m so lucky to have this one growing in my garden!⁠
⁠
I find that this colour carries a sense of quiet elegance. It doesn’t shout for attention like brighter flowers do; instead, it draws you in with its mysterious hue and uniqueness. It’s the kind of colour that feels timeless yet unexpected, delicate yet powerful. 🌸⁠
⁠
In many ways, I find that this particular camellia reminds me of the beauty of standing out simply by being different. It’s proof that sometimes it’s not the loudest colour in the garden that makes the most significant impact, it’s the one that surprises you, the one that feels rare and precious.⁠
⁠
If you’re looking to add something truly distinctive to your garden this season, camellias deserve a spot on your list. Not only do they bloom beautifully through the cooler months, but they also bring a colour that most people will have never seen in a camellia before. 🌿⁠
⁠
Next time you’re wandering through a nursery or someone’s winter garden, keep your eyes peeled for flowers with unique colours; you’ll know it when you see it.⁠

Reminiscing about a past project that is still clo

Reminiscing about a past project that is still close to my heart! 💚⁠
⁠
Ying’s Brighton project was a pleasure to work on, not only from a design perspective, but she was one of those clients who were an absolute joy to get creative with! ⁠
⁠
We were there to add some new vigour to an already gorgeous property. Given that it had an existing mature garden, it already had an excellent framework of existing trees and shrubs. All we needed to do was apply our usual love of colour to the existing plantscape.⁠
⁠
We did that once we knew what she could muster in terms of maintenance, of course, as she was looking after the entire property on her own. We continued to provide ongoing plant advice for many years until she finally sold the property and returned to China. In the process, we became great plant buddies. We inadvertently turned her into a “succulent lover”!!! 😉⁠
⁠
“I am very satisfied with the changes to my garden,” Ying said “You were very efficient in getting the job done within several weeks. The succulents decorate the front garden path so well with the choice of pebbles.”⁠
⁠
To read more about Ying’s stunning Brighton project, click below 👇🏻⁠

https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/brighton/⁠
⁠

✨“Love the look of spring blooms but hate the

✨“Love the look of spring blooms but hate the sneezes that come with them? 🌸🤧 You’re not alone!”✨⁠
⁠
Spring is all about fresh starts, vibrant colours, and lush greenery. But if you’ve got hayfever or asthma, this season can feel more like a sneeze-fest than a celebration. ⁠
⁠
The good news? You don’t have to give up on having a stunning garden or a cosy balcony full of plants!⁠
⁠
👉 We’ve rounded up the best low-pollen, asthma-friendly, allergy-safe plants to keep your outdoor (or indoor) space thriving without triggering endless sneezes and wheezes. ⁠
⁠
Think gorgeous camellias, cheerful daffodils, and lush ferns that give you all the beauty without the sniffles.⁠
⁠
Here’s what you’ll discover in the blog:⁠
⁠
🌼 Which flowers add pops of colour without triggering allergies⁠
🌱 The underrated greenery that’s perfect for clean, breathable air⁠
🚫 Plants you might want to avoid if pollen makes you miserable⁠
💡 Bonus tips on making your garden more hayfever-friendly⁠
⁠
So, whether you’re dreaming of a lush spring garden or want a couple of potted plants that won’t set off your allergies—this guide is for you.⁠
⁠
👉 Read the full blog here: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/selecting-plants-for-hayfever-and-asthma/⁠
⁠
✨ Your garden should be a joy, not a tissue-consuming nightmare!⁠

How COOL is this mural! 🤩🐯⁠ ⁠ It’s an

How COOL is this mural! 🤩🐯⁠
⁠
It’s an amazingly vibrant & colourful piece by Gina Kiel - an artist whose work often features nature and spirituality as mediums that connect us to something bigger and more meaningful than ourselves.⁠
⁠
⁠These murals are more than just pretty pictures; they’re a story on a wall.⁠ They combine a deep symbolism of imagery with the emotional impact of the vibrant colours used to create themes of connection and transcendence. 🎨⁠
⁠
🦁 Here, the tiger represents powerful qualities such as courage, loyalty, and transformation, which connect us to nature.⁠
⁠
🎨 The bright colours carry meaning. The red creates a sense of danger and drama, whilst the blue brings a sense of calmness to the mural. ⁠
⁠
Together, these elements create a beautiful, shared experience that brings art and meaning to our communities. ⁠Next time you come across a beautiful piece of art, take a little extra time to appreciate it truly!⁠ 💚⁠
⁠
📸Wellington Chocolate Factory - Entrance Mural, Wellington, New Zealand

A garden starts with small things: a handful of se

A garden starts with small things: a handful of seeds, a young plant, a vision in your mind. You nurture, protect, and patiently wait … and one day, you realise you’ve created more than you ever dreamed.⁠
⁠
That tiny lavender cutting you almost gave up on is now buzzing with bees. The tomato vines have exploded into a tangle of green and red. Flowers you planted for “a bit of colour” have turned your whole border into a masterpiece.⁠
⁠
It’s not just about the blooms or the harvest. It’s about the pride in seeing your care and effort turn into something beautiful and alive. Gardening rewards you in unexpected ways; it feeds the body, soothes the mind, and fills the soul.⁠
⁠
So, if you’ve never felt that quiet, overflowing joy, plant a garden; you might grow more than just flowers. 🌿💚⁠

🌸✨ Spring has ARRIVED. Your garden is calling

🌸✨ Spring has ARRIVED. Your garden is calling for a glow-up!⁠
⁠
This season, landscaping is blossoming with fresh ideas that bring style, sustainability, and a touch of outdoor magic. Here are four trends to watch (and try!):⁠
⁠
💚 Edible gardens with flair – Blend herbs, veggies, and fruit trees with ornamentals for a space that’s as tasty as it is beautiful. 🍓🌱⁠
⁠
💚 Natural textures – Stone paths, timber screens, and raw finishes are in. They create timeless designs that feel grounded and connected to the natural world.⁠
⁠
💚 Wildlife-friendly zones – Design with pollinators, birds, and bees in mind. Native flowers, water bowls, and shelter plants = your garden buzzing with life. 🐝🌼⁠
⁠
💚 Outdoor “rooms” – Think cosy lounges, firepit corners, or alfresco dining zones. Spring is all about turning the garden into a true extension of your home. 🔥🍷⁠
⁠
Spring is the season of fresh starts… is your garden ready to bloom with these trends? 🌷✨⁠

Preserved moss, anyone?⁠ It’s so very zen!⁠

Preserved moss, anyone?⁠ It’s so very zen!⁠
⁠
This isn’t just a plant alternative; it’s a piece of tactile, textural art. Housed in a cool, minimalist stone pot, it brings all the lush, vibrant energy of a forest floor into your home with literally ZERO maintenance. ⁠
⁠
No watering. No finding the ‘perfect’ sunny spot. It just sits there looking effortlessly cool.⁠ But here’s the real secret ✨ It’s all about the styling. ⁠
⁠
This isn’t just an object; it’s the final, perfect punctuation mark for your space.⁠ On a stack of coffee table books? Instant sophistication. On your desk to battle the Tuesday morning slump? A teeny pocket of zen. On a bathroom vanity? Spa-level vibes.⁠
⁠
The power lies in where you place it to fit your aesthetic. Whether your home is coastal, industrial, or boho-chic, this little pot of forever-green is the ultimate style chameleon. It’s not about following a trend; it’s about finding that unique piece that feels like you.⁠
⁠
Where would you style this in your home? Drop your ideas below! 👇⁠
⁠
📸Surrey Hills project interior detail courtesy of a very cool client; 2025⁠
⁠

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Garden - Page 8 of 10 - Inspiring Landscape Solutions