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MIFGS 2023
MIFGS 2023
MIFGS 2024
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Scented gardens

All the posts published

Recent Posts

Adding an Arbour to Your Garden
Five Tips For Looking After Plants During Hot Weather
10 Creative Ways to Transform Your Garden into the Ultimate Entertaining Space
5 Creative Ways to Shade Your Garden From the Australian Heat
Five Native Australian Plants That Will Attract Birds to Your Garden

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inspiringlandscapes.com.au

🍓 Berry Sweet Gardening Dreams 🍓⁠ ⁠ What

🍓 Berry Sweet Gardening Dreams 🍓⁠
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What’s better than store-bought berries? The ones you grow yourself, of course! Imagine stepping into your garden, picking sun-warmed strawberries, juicy blueberries, or raspberries straight off the bush 🌞⁠
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Berries are surprisingly easy to grow, whether you’ve got a sprawling yard or just a few pots on the balcony. ⁠
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Here’s the secret 🤫: lots of sun ☀️, rich soil 🌱, and a little TLC. Oh, and don’t forget the netting—birds love berries as much as we do! 🐦💔⁠
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What better way to celebrate Fresh Berry Month than planting a few yourself? Your morning smoothies (and desserts) will thank you. What berries would you grow? Let us know below! 🍇🍓⁠

Are you looking for a tough, beautiful, AND valuab

Are you looking for a tough, beautiful, AND valuable plant? Say hello to Tulbaghia violace.⁠
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✨Why it’s incredible:⁠
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It’s easy to grow, drought-tolerant and adds a pop of purple flowers to your garden almost year-round. 🌞💧⁠
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Crush its leaves, and you’ll get a garlicky aroma as bold as its blooms! (Don’t worry, it’s not overpowering.)⁠
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Bonus: Those leaves are edible! Use them to add a mild garlic flavour to salads, soups, or stews. 🥗🍲⁠
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🦋Oh, and did we mention it’s a hit with pollinators but not with pests? Tulbaghia keeps mosquitos away while inviting butterflies to your garden party! 🐝🦋⁠
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This low-maintenance superstar is perfect for gardens, pots, or borders. Ready to add some flair—and flavour—to your outdoor space? 🌿💜 ⁠
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📸 by Pk Photography. Berwick project 2023

🏡✨ Want to add instant charm and elegance to

🏡✨ Want to add instant charm and elegance to your garden? Say hello to the mighty arbour! More than just a pretty structure, an arbour brings style, shade, and a perfect place for your favourite climbing plants to thrive. 🌸🌿⁠
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Here’s why you’ll love adding an arbour to your outdoor space:⁠
🌹 Frame your garden entrance for a storybook-worthy vibe.⁠
🛋️ Create a cosy nook for morning coffee or afternoon daydreaming.⁠
🌼 Support climbing beauties like roses, wisteria, or fragrant jasmine for a living masterpiece.⁠
🌞 Add shade and structure that makes your garden feel more layered and intentional.⁠
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The best part? Arbours are endlessly customisable. Choose from rustic wood, sleek metal, or a colourful painted design to match your style.⁠
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Ready to transform your garden into a lush, inviting retreat? Read our latest blog below for tips, tricks, and inspiration!⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/adding-an-arbour-to-your-garden⁠
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📸Nunawading project 2022⁠

Does your garden (and maybe even yourself 😉) ne

Does your garden (and maybe even yourself 😉) need some rejuvenation? I know I do!⁠
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For those of you who know Brighton in Melbourne, you’ll know what a stunning area it is and the “vibe” that comes with it. ⁠
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We enjoyed working with Ying, who asked us to inject colour and “vigour” into the existing landscape and provide ongoing plant advice and maintenance. We went against the norm for the plant selection typically selected for gardens in this area and instead turned our client into an avid succulent lover!!! 😁⁠
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Ying started out loving the succulents on both sides of the front pathway, along with the choice of the new pebbles. She slowly spread the introduced plant species, primarily succulents, into the rest of the garden over time. Her house looked as good as new!⁠
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To read the rest of Ying’s review and to have a look at the whole project brief, head on over to our portfolio:⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/brighton/⁠
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While you’re there, do check out some of our other projects and get inspired by the changes we could make to your garden! 💚

I couldn’t resist a pic of this one!⁠ ⁠ Did

I couldn’t resist a pic of this one!⁠
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Did you know frogs are more than just garden visitors or rain-song singers? Across the globe, these amphibians hop into cultural stories, myths, and traditions with BIG significance! 🐸🌏⁠
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✨ In Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, frogs are seen as rainmakers and life-bringers, symbolising water’s life-giving power.⁠
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✨ In Japan, frogs (called kaeru) represent good fortune and safe journeys—who wouldn’t want a lucky frog charm for their travels? 🧳🍀⁠
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✨ In many cultures, their presence signifies a healthy environment—frogs are nature’s ecological barometer!⁠
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Whether they’re hopping through folklore, inspiring good luck, or reminding us to protect the planet, frogs are more than meets the eye 🐸💚 ⁠
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What’s your favourite frog myth or memory? Share it below! ⬇️ ⁠

While emperors may build vast palaces and conquer

While emperors may build vast palaces and conquer territories, gardeners cultivate visions of life itself. They dream of lush landscapes bursting with colour, the gentle hum of bees, and the sweet scent of flowers drifting through the air 🐝 🌷⁠
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Their ambitions extend beyond mere ownership or control; they are creators of harmony, architects of beauty, and nurturers of growth. ⁠
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Gardeners imagine a world where every seed holds potential, where patience and care transform the smallest sprouts into towering trees or thriving ecosystems 🌳 ⁠
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Unlike emperors, whose dreams often fade with time, the dreams of gardeners leave a living, breathing legacy that grows richer with every passing season 👩🏻‍🌾⁠
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Wouldn’t you agree? 💚⁠

⁠ Your outdoor entertaining area deserves as muc

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Your outdoor entertaining area deserves as much love as the parties it hosts! 🥂 Here’s how to keep it looking fabulous and functional all year round:⁠
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🧹 Clean it up: Wipe down tables, chairs, and floors regularly (especially after a wild weather event). No one wants to sit on a dusty chair!⁠
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🪑 Check the furniture: Store cushions in good shape during rain or scorching sun. A little care goes a long way!⁠
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🌿 Tame the greenery: Trim back those overenthusiastic plants and hedges. Let your garden frame the space, not take it over!⁠
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💡 Light it right: Keep the mood going for magical evenings by ensuring all your lighting is in top form.⁠
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🔥 Grill goals: Clean your barbecue after each use—no one wants last week’s sausage grease making a comeback. 😅⁠
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🐜 Evict the pests: Look for unwanted guests like ants or spiders and show them the (garden) door!⁠
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A little upkeep keeps your space stylish, comfortable, and always ready for the next round of good vibes and great company 💚⁠
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I would love to see photos of your garden and entertainment areas. Please share them in the comments below 📸⁠
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📸 by @pk____photography Photography. Berwick project 2023⁠
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🌸🦊 Meet the Foxglove: Nature’s Enchanting

🌸🦊 Meet the Foxglove: Nature’s Enchanting Showstopper! 🦊🌸⁠
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I love this foxglove. If plants could win beauty pageants, the foxglove would take the crown! ⁠
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With its tall, elegant spikes and bell-shaped blooms in shades of pink, purple, and white, this plant adds instant fairy-tale vibes to any garden. It’s such a nice contrast between the flower and the leaves!!✨🌿⁠
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But don’t let its charm fool you—foxglove is as mysterious as it is beautiful. It’s a favourite of pollinators (bees love it!), but it’s also highly toxic, so admire from afar. 🐝⚠️⁠
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Perfect for cottage gardens or anyone looking to add a touch of whimsy, foxgloves thrive in sunny spots with a bit of shade ⛅️⁠
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Foxgloves must be watered 💦regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells. They are drought-sensitive, so don’t let the soil dry out completely. ⁠
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Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves 🍃, as foxgloves are prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew.⁠
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During active growth and flowering (spring to early summer), increase watering to support blooms 🌸 In cooler months or dormant periods, reduce watering to avoid over-saturation.⁠
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Ready to bring a little magic to your outdoor space?⁠🌟 ⁠

This is a random (but beautiful) garden I came acr

This is a random (but beautiful) garden I came across in Thornbury. I love how they have used geraniums on the trellis!! ⁠
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I’ve been around for a while 😉 and haven’t seen that before! It’s given me some trellis inspiration 💚⁠
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If you’ve been inspired like I have, here are some tips to help you create a stunning display:⁠
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💚Choose Climbing Varieties: Look for ivy-leaved or trailing plants, as they naturally drape and climb with a little guidance. These varieties are perfect for trellises! 🌿⁠
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💚Train and Tie: Gently guide the stems onto the trellis as they grow using soft garden ties or twine. Be careful not to damage the stems while securing them.⁠
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💚Sunshine is Key: Most plants thrive in full sun, so place your trellis in a sunny spot to ensure lush growth and vibrant blooms. ☀️⁠
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💚Feed and Water Regularly: Plants need consistent watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertiliser to keep those flowers popping. Just make sure the soil drains well to avoid soggy roots 💦⁠
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💚Prune for Shape: Trim any wayward or overly long stems to encourage bushier growth and keep your trellis looking neat and fabulous!⁠
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Your trellis will soon burst with colour and charm—it will never disappoint! 🌸✨⁠
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P.S. I included a few more pictures of trellises from past projects to inspire you, as you can also play with introducing artwork and multiple climbers (😉).⁠
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Pic 2 - MIFGS ‘24 Balcony garden⁠
Pic 3 - Blackburn ‘16 project vegetable patch⁠
Pic 4 - Hawthorn East ‘18 project Jasmine Climber⁠
Pic 5 - Richmond ‘20 project Jasmine Climber⁠
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🚫 Grass got you down? 😓 Mowing, watering, an

🚫 Grass got you down? 😓 Mowing, watering, and weeding can be a full-time job — but it doesn’t have to be!⁠
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Here are four lawn-free alternatives that save time and look fabulous:⁠
🌱 Ground Covers – Lush clover or creeping thyme (no mowing required!)⁠
🛤️ Gravel or Mulch Pathways – Stylish, low-maintenance structure⁠
🎋 Artificial Turf – Grass vibes, zero effort⁠
🌸 Wildflower Meadows – Pollinator-friendly beauty that thrives on its own⁠
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Ready to say goodbye to high-maintenance grass? 🌼✨ Check out our blog 👇🏻 for even more inspiration!⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/four-ways-you-can-replace-your-lawn/⁠
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📸Pic 1 - Murrumbeena project, 2021⁠
📸Pic 2 - Vermont South project, 2018⁠
📸Pic 3 - Ringwood project, 2023⁠
📸Pic 4 - Brunswick East project, rear garden, 2023⁠
📸Pic 4 - Brunswick East project, front garden, 2023⁠
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This stunning photo is of Rob Mihailescu’s home

This stunning photo is of Rob Mihailescu’s home garden in Mount Martha. I’m incredibly envious of it! ⁠
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For those of you who don’t know who Rob is (you need to check out his work), he’s a qualified horticulturist and landscape designer. He combines his expert plant knowledge with sustainable landscape designs to create stunning gardens that thrive in the long run.⁠
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This bold arbour draws you in and makes you want to explore the rest of his garden. ⁠
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Arbours are inviting because they combine natural beauty, a sense of shelter, and a touch of romance, creating a welcoming space that beckons exploration and relaxation.⁠
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When you look at this photo, does it make you want to check out the rest of the garden? Let me know in the comments.⁠

🌱 “I Am More Myself in a Garden Than Anywhere

🌱 “I Am More Myself in a Garden Than Anywhere Else on Earth” 🌸⁠
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There’s something about stepping into a garden that feels right. 🌿 It’s where we shed the stress, embrace the dirt, and let our true selves bloom. ⁠
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Maybe it’s the freedom to talk to plants without judgment (yes, they listen!) or the simple joy of watching life grow in real time. 🌼✨⁠
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We’re creators, nurturers, and occasionally, bug negotiators in the garden. 🐛 It’s where muddy hands meet a clear mind, where we reconnect with the earth—and ourselves. There’s no Wi-Fi, but somehow, it’s where we feel the most connected.⁠
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How does your garden help you feel more you? Let’s celebrate the magic of gardening—share your favourite moments below! 🌸🌞 ⁠

⁠”We have had a wonderful experience working w

⁠”We have had a wonderful experience working with Parveen. We were stumped by a bland eyesore of a courtyard and had no idea how to make it enjoyable and accessible. ⁠
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Parveen’s experience has opened our eyes to what this space could be. Her diligence, care in planning, and prompt, clear communication set her apart. We are excited to move to the next phase of our project! “Andrew Duncan⁠:⁠”⁠
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🎨 I have worked through several elevations of increasing complexity, showing design intent and problem-solving⁠ in the spatial context. I got stuck a few times with the levels involved, and these drawings opened my mind to the possibilities that can become reality!⁠
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🎨 Planting schemes—both simplistic and complex⁠. Based on my 2022 MIFGS border garden, I developed two quite complex schemes, and they came up a treat! Although they took ages to design, I can’t wait to see them come to life in 2025!⁠
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🎨 Artistic impressions and shapes—I love and am grateful for the opportunities to experiment with various outdoor styles. I would love to continue experimenting with fluid shapes, whether or not they involve decking, paving, lightboxes, or trellising.⁠
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I can’t wait to sink my teeth into more designs this year!!! 💚🥰🤩

If you want to enhance your garden with stunning a

If you want to enhance your garden with stunning and low-maintenance plants, Australian natives are an excellent choice. They thrive in our climate and support local wildlife, making your garden a haven for birds, bees, and more.⁠
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Here are two standout options that are easy to grow and guaranteed to add beauty to your outdoor space:⁠
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🌸 Grevillea: This hardy plant withstands harsh conditions and is known for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers. Its nectar-rich blooms are perfect for adding a pop of colour and attracting birds. ⁠
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🦘 Kangaroo Paw: This plant is an Australian icon with unique, velvety flowers shaped like kangaroo paws. It’s low-maintenance, thrives in sunny spots, and is ideal for adding texture and interest to your garden. Plus, its blooms are irresistible to pollinators like bees.⁠
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Both plants are resilient, drought-tolerant, and well-suited to Australia’s diverse climates. Have you tried growing Australian natives in your garden? Let us know your favourites in the comments! 🐝💚 ⁠
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These are images from my Mount Waverley project an

These are images from my Mount Waverley project and my lovely client, Bev. Below is just part of what Bev had to say:⁠
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Parveen listened to our brief and presented us with an excellent garden design incorporating all our requests. Parveen assisted with selecting the contractors to remove the current garden and intricate stonework, finalising the decorative pebbles and toppings, and sourcing the plants.⁠
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Parveen is highly professional, creative, and personable. I would recommend her services. She has been prompt and professional every step of the way.⁠
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To read Bev’s full client testimony and to read about my Mount Waverley garden design, please head to: ⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/mount-waverley/

🐔 Chickens: Your Feathered Garden Sidekicks! 🌿⁠
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Who needs superheroes when you’ve got chickens in your garden? These clucky companions aren’t just adorable—they’re nature’s multitaskers! 🎉⁠
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✨ Here’s why you’ll love having them:⁠
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🐔Egg-cellent Fresh Eggs: Breakfast just got better with home-laid eggs. 🍳⁠
🐔Weed Warriors: Chickens love munching on pesky weeds and bugs—free pest control! 🐛⁠
🐔Compost Pros: Their droppings make garden gold (a.k.a. fertiliser). 🌱⁠
🐔Entertainment: Forget TV—watching chickens scratch, peck, and waddle is comedy gold. 😂⁠
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Ready to welcome some feathered friends? Your garden (and breakfast table) will thank you! 🐓❤️ Share your chicken adventures below!⁠

🌞🌱 Hot Weather, Happy Plants! 🌱🌞⁠
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The summer heat is here, but don’t let it wilt your gardening dreams! 🌸 Whether caring for a balcony garden or a backyard jungle, keeping your plants thriving in the heat is easier than you think.⁠
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Our latest blog spills the soil on 5 top tips to protect your plants, including:⁠
💧 Watering like a pro—it’s all about timing and technique.⁠
🌿 Creating shade for your sun-sensitive friends.⁠
🌱 Mulching magic to lock in moisture and keep roots cool.⁠
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Ready to turn up the heat on your gardening skills? Check out the blog and keep your plants flourishing all summer long! 🌞✨⁠
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👉 https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/five-tips-for-looking-after-plants-during-hot-weather/⁠
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How do you keep your garden happy during the summer? Share your tips below! ⬇️ ⁠

🌿 “In Nature, Nothing Exists Alone” 🌿⁠

🌿 “In Nature, Nothing Exists Alone” 🌿⁠
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Have you ever noticed how every leaf, flower, bug, and bird is part of one amazing team? 🌸🐦 ⁠
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That’s because nature thrives on connection —plants clean the air, bees pollinate flowers, trees shelter animals, and the cycle continues. It’s like the ultimate squad goals, but with ecosystems! 💪🌏⁠
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Your garden is no different. Each little critter, from the hardworking earthworm to the buzzing bee, plays a role in keeping it alive and flourishing. So next time you see a butterfly landing on a flower or a bird hopping through the grass, remember: it’s all connected. 🐛🌼⁠
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How do you celebrate the beautiful teamwork of nature in your backyard? Drop a 🌿 below! ⁠

Many people want to spend more time in their garde

Many people want to spend more time in their gardens but are also limited on time. Does this sound like you? Bark gives your garden extra finesse and makes it easy to maintain. ⁠
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Here are two tips to help you maintain your garden if you’re using bark:⁠
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💚Keep It Fresh: Bark can break down over time and lose its insulating properties. To keep your garden looking great and your plants happy, refresh the bark every 1–2 years by adding a new layer. Aim for about 5–7cm thick to suppress weeds and retain moisture effectively.⁠
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💚Weed Patrol: Those sneaky weeds can sometimes find their way through, even with bark. Regularly check your garden and remove any weeds before they establish deep roots. A quick rake-over every few weeks can help redistribute the bark and keep it looking tidy.⁠
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For other tips for taking the best care of your garden over the summer, head on over to: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/summer-gardening-tips/⁠
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📸Front garden Ringwood North project 11 months on.

Are you planning to use your entertaining area ext

Are you planning to use your entertaining area extensively this summer? If so, you can make it more enjoyable by adding low-maintenance plants like a Crassula (the yellow/green one) and a Kalanchoe Quicksilver (the stunning purple plant, one of my favourites).⁠
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I encouraged my client to salvage the Crassula because it’s a low-maintenance plant that enlivens any setting. ⁠
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The Kalanchoe Quicksilver would be a fashionable addition to your collection of succulents. With its delicate, silver-hued leaves and compact, artistic form, this lovely plant will surely steal the spotlight. ⁠
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Both plants love the sun, tolerate a little neglect (don’t stress if you forget to water them over the weekend), and thrive in well-draining soil. 😎💦⁠
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You can pop these succulents in a pretty pot, integrate them into your garden, and let them do their thing. ⁠It proves that less really is more! Who else is obsessed with succulents? Share your favourites below! 💚⁠
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2022 Highett project⁠
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📸:⁠@pkphotography⁠

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