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Closeup of lime espalier in Bundoora landscape design

Vegetable patches & fruit orchards in Autumn

April 7, 2020
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Gardens for Life, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Plants, Productive gardening, Productive gardens, Seasonal tips
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Posted by Parveen

Thought I’d write up on several discussions I’ve had the past couple of weeks from friends, family and clients about trying to get something edible planted in their garden.

Most have said that they have no idea where to begin and some are curious about what else they can plant at this time of year!

Well, happy to share some thoughts and tips to keep the spirit of giving going especially in these scary times.

Hope you get inspired and try some of these out! 🙂

Let's tackle the why ...

Personally I believe that everyone needs some greens in their lives.

You see, I have a farming gene embedded deep in my soul and despite living in really urban areas in Malaysia, I grew up with in a family that still “farmed” to a degree.  We all had busy lives, mum and dad both went to work 7 days a week, us kids went to school (had NO social life but to study etc LOL) but there was a strong innate bond with the outdoors just get out into the garden and see what’s happening.

The downside was maybe that you’ll get “stuck” outdoors for a while but you know what, you’re

Urban food garden in productive part of Kew landscape design

Custom Corten Planter

probably all the better for it.  You may have come across a fascinating glittery insect or local bird, a flower you haven’t noticed before, harvested something, had some exercise, some fresh air and cleared your mind!

OK – I digress.

The point I’m trying to make is that there has been a large shift, over the last couple of years, towards being self reliant, food wise, at home AND also reaping the added health benefits as mentioned above.

With what’s been happening lately, I’m sure that you may have had that niggling thought that maybe you should give your vege patch a go or maybe a better try? Maybe even to reconnect with “past family or cultural habits” that seem to have lost their way in our modern lives?

Alternatively, think of it as your little experiment and you’ll enjoy seeing something grow and that you will eventually enjoy it all cooked up?! 🙂

So where and how to begin ...

You may be thinking OK it’s sort of too late isn’t it as it’s already autumn.

The thing is that there’s always something that you can plant at any point of time during the year.

For me personally, I stick with the ones I use in my cooking and that my family loves.

You don’t have to have a huge patch/backyard or tackle this as a huge exercise.  Start small and grow as your interests and experience grows.

Vege patch

If you have a large backyard, then great.  Plan it such that you can fully utilise that space and make it work for other (non-gardening) activities in the garden.  Make sure that you build up  lot of organic matter in the soil profile – that is KEY to your growing success.

If you want to build a vegetable patch, source the right materials.  It can be an “eco-material” of some form, UV stabilised plastic, metal or wood.  But please research them properly as various products have chemicals etc that may leach into the soil profile.  There are providers out there with materials that don’t leach and honestly worth every single cent.

Building a vegetable patch needs to consider what you plant in it (to ensure there’s enough growing room) and also how to make sure, over time, that the soil profile remains OK for planting.  Research crop rotation especially if you’re planting things like tomatoes and potatoes, for example.

Kew

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Glen Waverley

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Camberwell

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Blackburn

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Bundoora

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Vermont South A

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Also another tip is that you need to ensure that it’s at the right height for you and for your edibles to reach the sunlight.

Bundoora

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Bundoora

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Bundoora

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Burwood

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Pots

If you live in a high rise and want a balcony garden, then the KEY thing to remember growing (most) edibles is that you also need plenty of sun.

Pots are a good way to achieve the height you need and you can combine it with a large and stable trellised structure/teepee.  Basically, you need to make sure that you’re giving your edibles enough time in the sun for them to grow and to remain healthy (and disease free).

The other key thing to remember for high rises are – sufficient irrigation AND that the pots are light weight.

Self watering pots are ok – as long as the rootball reaches the water level.  Many people forget to factor this in 🙂

Pots are also an effective way to increase the growing area in your home garden.  You just to make sure that they are the right size and type for what you need.  Mint and other strong root herbs need really strong pots (they are known to break them!) and you definitely need a huge pot for dwarf fruit trees!

Trellises

Trellises can be made of anything – old branches that are tied together, plastic rods, metal, wood etc.  Basically anything that will function to let your plants grow up and support them.

So make them strong and use ones that right for the plant you are growing.  For example, vines are generally “heavy” so make sure that you have something that will take its eventual weight!

If you have any other surface areas such as unused fences, clothesline etc – why don’t you turn that into a edible garden spot?

My mum turned her clothesline into a massive trellis for growing 2 types of gourds.  She lives by herself and she doesn’t need that much room so she just toyed with the idea that was immensely successful for her and the bonus is she’s entertained by butterflies and little birds that love her vine as she looks out her kitchen window!

Glen Waverley 2019

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Bundoora

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Blackburn

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Blackburn

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Surrey Hills

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Blackburn

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So what edibles would bear you something now. What else is worth growing? ...

OK – weather wise, we are losing heat (but there is till enough) and we are headed towards colder times.

Vege’s

So my personal go to plants for this weather period are – nasturtiums, leeks, peas, kale, broad beans, asian greens (buk choy), fennel or spinach to name a few. The spinach I stand by (although yes it’s an acquired taste), is warrigal greens (pictured).  It’s got oxalates in it so you need to blanche it in hot water first to get rid of it.  It’s a super hardy plant and I’m able to harvest it even in winter!

I have friends who grow other brassica’s (like cauliflower and broccoli) and they do amazing things for them but I’ve had really bad luck with them from an aphid infestation perspective so I tend to steer away even though they are a staple in our diet at home!  Give it a try though and it if works for you then hats off to you!! 🙂

Leeks

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Spinach

Picture of spinach for your productive garden landscape design

Warrigal-greens-for-vegetable-patch-in-Melbourne

Picture of Warrigal greens for your productive garden landscape design

Oregano

Picture of oregano for your productive garden landscape design

Buk choy

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Cauliflower

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Peas

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Blackburn

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Flowers

Aside from the list above, I love my perennials and grow many flowers in my vege patch as I find lots of beneficial insects getting attracted to them.  Some of my perennials have a second flush in autumn so I really love the view of my vege patch in autumn when all other plants seem to be dropping their leaves and slowing down.  If you’d like to plant some, you can now but be ready for a small growth spurt and then nothing till spring starts again.  Prune off all the older growth and then you’ll have a fresh plant to grow and reward you with prettyness in spring and summer!  Something to look forward to also, beyond just these few colder months!

Fruit trees?

Citrus – I LOVE them and it’s one of the best things to look forward to towards winter.  I have heaps of varieties including a unique native lime that has red fruit.  Yes, you read that right.  A lovely maroon red fruit.  Another one I’d recommend is the Indian guava and figs.  Figs are ok in large pots too and able to be kept small.

Also, before I forget to mention, Autumn is also when I find that it’s a good time to propagate perennials and also get ready for some bare rooted stock planting in June.  So now you’ve got a couple of months to prepare your soil with plenty of organic matter (including compost).

If you’re after a more comprehensive list of what to plant that suits you personally, check out the link further below that has a useful guide.

So please do Explore and Experiment!!! 🙂

Other resources

Bulleen Art & Garden (BAAG), one of my absolute fav nurseries What to Plant each month guide

Vermont South A

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Raised garden bed in Hawthorn East Garden Design

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Bundoora

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Kew

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Camberwell

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Blackburn

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We have been awarded with the Houzz Best of Service 2020 award.

If you need further suggestions or design or plantscaping 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 write ups and case studies on productive gardening, herbs (parts 1 & 2), adding value to your property through landscaping, biophilic garden design.

Our passion your garden! xx

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inspiringlandscapes.com.au

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! 👇⁠
⁠
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
🌿✨ Climbing Vines: Let’s Keep Them Looking 🌿✨ Climbing Vines: Let’s Keep Them Looking Fabulous! ✨🌿⁠
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There’s nothing quite like a lush, climbing vine transforming a wall, fence, or trellis into a green paradise! But if left unchecked, they can turn from charming to chaotic. Here’s how to keep your vine thriving while growing exactly where you want it! 🌱⬆️⁠
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🌿 Guide and Train It — Vines need a little direction! Gently weave new growth through a trellis or use soft ties to secure wayward stems. This keeps them from taking over your garden (or your neighbour’s yard!).⁠
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✂️ Prune Regularly – A quick trim here and there keeps your vine healthy, encourages fuller growth, and prevents it from becoming a tangled mess. Plus, it keeps your flowers blooming beautifully! 🌸⁠
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💦 Water and Feed — Vines are hungry plants! Keep the soil moist (but not soggy) and give them a nutrient boost with a balanced fertiliser for strong, vibrant growth.⁠
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With a little care, your climbing vine will stay lush, lovely, and under control, creating the dreamy garden backdrop you’ve been wishing for! ✨ What’s your favourite climbing plant? Drop it in the comments! 👇💚⁠
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📸Mt Waverley project detail, completed 2023
Your deck might be your favourite spot to relax wi Your deck might be your favourite spot to relax with a cuppa, entertain friends, or soak up the sunshine surrounded by pots of lush greenery—but when was the last time you gave it a proper safety check? 👀⁠
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A well-designed deck can be a valid extension of your home—a space for creating memories, hosting BBQs, and enjoying quiet Sunday mornings. But even the best-built decks need a little TLC to stay safe, especially after braving the elements year after year.⁠
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May is International Deck Safety Month, so it’s the perfect time to show your deck a bit of attention. Whether it’s a cosy ground-level setup or a grand two-storey structure with stairs and railings, every deck benefits from a seasonal check-up, and your family, especially the little ones running barefoot, will thank you for it. 🏡💚⁠
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Here are a few key things to check this month:⁠
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🔩 Loose Nails, Screws or Fasteners – These might seem small but can become significant safety risks. Tighten anything wobbly or sticking out.⁠
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🪚 Rotting or Splintered Wood – Moisture, time, and weather can break down even quality timber. Check for soft spots or cracked boards and replace them immediately.⁠
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🧱 Stability of Railings and Stairs—Give the railings a good shake. Are they solid and secure? The stairs should feel stable and not move underfoot.⁠
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🌧️ Water Damage & Drainage—Look for signs of mould, mildew, or pooling water. Good drainage is key to keeping your deck materials strong and safe.⁠
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🧼 Slippery Surfaces—Moss, algae, and general grime build-up can make decks slippery and dangerous. A good clean might be all they need!⁠
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🔍 Check for Movement—If your deck feels shifting or bouncy underfoot, it might be time for a professional inspection.⁠
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💡 Bonus tip: If your deck is 15 years old or older, it’s a good idea to assess it professionally, even if it looks fine. Wind, rain, UV exposure and general wear all take their toll.⁠
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For more tips, check out our blog, Eight Ways to Look After Your Timber Decking: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/eight-ways-to-look-after-your-timber-decking/⁠
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There’s something incredibly poetic about this s There’s something incredibly poetic about this season—the crisp air, the golden light, and the way the leaves put on their most dramatic performance before drifting to the ground. There’s no rush, no panic. This is a gentle reminder that change can be stunning, graceful, or necessary.⁠
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“Autumn, the year’s last loveliest smile” is more than just a pretty quote—it’s a way of thinking. It whispers, “Slow down. Soak it in.” There’s beauty in letting go, winding down, and making space for rest and reflection.⁠
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Gardens feel it too. Summer’s showstoppers might be fading, but autumn brings its quiet magic—rusty reds, deep burgundies, warm golds. It’s a time when structure, texture, and mood shine—the garden shifts from centre stage to a softer, more soulful beauty.⁠
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✨ Planting Tip: Now’s the perfect time to plant spring bulbs or introduce cold-hardy veggies and leafy greens. Think garlic, broad beans, or silverbeet if you’re feeling productive.⁠
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🌿 Garden Design Tip: Autumn light is golden and low—take advantage of it. Frame your garden beds or paths to catch the sunset rays, and don’t forget to consider foliage texture and contrast. Grasses and deciduous shrubs can steal the show this time of year.⁠
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🍷 Lifestyle Tip: Make your outdoor space work for the season. Add a fire pit, pull out the woolly throws, pour a mulled wine, and entertain alfresco. Autumn is for slow moments, hearty meals, and good conversation under starry skies.⁠
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So if you love a fresh start, but also romanticise every fallen leaf and cup of tea in hand… autumn is your season. It’s nature’s way of showing us that there’s joy in transition—and that endings can be just as lovely as beginnings. 🍁🧡⁠
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Tell me—what’s your favourite autumn ritual in your garden?⁠
🌿Meet Sedum ‘Blue Feathers’ – The Perfect 🌿Meet Sedum ‘Blue Feathers’ – The Perfect Low-Maintenance Beauty!💙⁠
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Looking for a plant that’s tough, stunning, and incredibly easy to care for? Sedum reflexum’ Blue Spruce’ is a standout! ⁠
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With its fabulous blue-green, needle-like foliage (resembling a miniature spruce tree 🌲) and bright yellow summer blooms that attract pollinators, this little gem brings year-round texture and colour to any garden. ⁠Plus, Autumn’s foliage takes on a gorgeous golden hue for an extra seasonal surprise! 🍂 ✨ ⁠
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Why You’ll Love It:⁠
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✔️ Super low maintenance – Thrives on neglect! Once established, it hardly needs water. 💧⁠
✔️ Perfect for tough spots – Dry soil? Poor conditions? No problem! ‘Blue Spruce’ loves it. 🌱⁠
✔️ Versatile & hardy – Use it as ground cover, in rock gardens, as edging, or even in containers. 🌿🪴⁠
✔️ Pollinator-friendly – Bees and butterflies can’t resist those starry yellow flowers! 🐝🦋⁠
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Whether filling in gaps, adding texture to a succulent garden, or looking for a plant that thrives with minimal fuss, the ‘Blue feathers’ stonecrop is a must-have. Do you have a spot in your garden that could use this tough little beauty? Let me know below! 👇💚⁠
Do you know your garden is quietly messing with yo Do you know your garden is quietly messing with your mind ... in the best possible way? 🧠🌸🌿⁠
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The colours and scents you choose for your outdoor space aren’t just pretty, they’re powerful. ⁠
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Want to feel calm? Blues and lavenders are your best mates. Need a pick-me-up? Zingy yellows and oranges bring a lot of good energy. And scent? Don’t even get us started. A whiff of jasmine or rosemary can transport you to a holiday, a childhood memory, or melt the stress away after a long day.⁠
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Whether you want your space to energise, soothe, spark creativity, or invite connection, tuning into the psychology of colour and scent helps you design with feeling, not just flair.⁠
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So next time you pick plants, don’t just think about how they look — think about how you want to feel.⁠
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Want to read more about the surprising power of colour and scent in garden design? Head on over to our website and read my new blog:⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/how-colour-and-scent-transform-your-garden-design/⁠
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What garden scent or colour instantly lifts your mood? Let me know in the comments!⁠ 💚
🌿✨ Garden Gatherings: Good for the Soul! ✨🌿⁠
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I love entertaining in my garden, and so do many of my clients. There’s something truly special about gathering with friends and family in your garden—the fresh air, the laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the simple joy of sharing good food under the open sky. 🌃 🥂⁠
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Your garden isn’t just a patch of greenery; it’s an extension of your home and heart. It’s where stories are told, memories are made, and the everyday hustle slows down just enough for you to connect genuinely. ⁠
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Whether it’s a casual weekend BBQ, a long lunch under the trees, or an impromptu evening under fairy lights, spending time outdoors with loved ones nourishes the soul in ways nothing else can. 💚⁠
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✨ Why outdoor entertaining is so good for you:⁠
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🌿 Nature’s therapy – Being surrounded by greenery and fresh air reduces stress and boosts happiness.⁠
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🔥 Food tastes better outside – There’s a reason why BBQs, woodfired pizzas, and garden-fresh salads feel extra special in the great outdoors!⁠
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💬 Real conversations happen – You can enjoy the moment without screens and distractions.⁠
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So set the table, fire up the grill, and invite your favourite people over —because life’s best moments happen when we’re together. 🌺✨⁠
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Tag someone you’d love to have a garden get-together with! 👇🍽️⁠

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📸Berwick project, rear courtyard, completed 2023
🌸 Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mu 🌸 Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mums, mother figures, and nurturing souls.⁠ 💐⁠
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Like a well-loved garden, motherhood comprises countless small acts—planting seeds of kindness, nurturing growth through every season, and weathering the storms with grace. ⁠
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Some days are full bloom—radiant, joyful, and fragrant with love. Others are quieter, like resting soil, full of invisible strength and care. But through it all, the consistency, the tending, and the love that help everything flourish.⁠
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To the women who shape lives with patience, grow beauty every day, and remind us that some of the strongest roots are the ones we never see, we honour you today. 💚⁠
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Wishing you a day filled with love, a little sunshine, and hopefully, something that makes your heart bloom.⁠
This is Lara and Terence’s lovely home in Camber This is Lara and Terence’s lovely home in Camberwell. I worked on this project back in 2018. I loved the hidden veggie patch and mini fruit orchard at this property, which was also quite different from many properties in the area.⁠
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“Parveen and team looked after our landscaping from start to finish. They did a fantastic job and lots of aftercare! We absolutely love the outcome of the planting design and have received numerous compliments from neighbours.”⁠
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Terence J⁠
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If you love what you see in the video, head on over to our website and see what else the project involves:⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/camberwell/
It’s easy to get caught up in what you think you It’s easy to get caught up in what you think your space should look like — until you realise it doesn’t feel like you.⁠ That’s because you can’t fight your style. The more you try to fit into someone else’s “perfect” version, the more out of place your home or garden can feel.⁠
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The magic happens when you embrace what you genuinely love — whether that’s a riot of colour, clean minimalism, wild cottage charm, or something unique.⁠
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Once you let your style lead the way (instead of second-guessing it), everything starts falling into place. Designing, decorating, and making decisions get easier because you’re no longer trying to be someone else.⁠
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Let’s stop second-guessing and start designing for joy, comfort, and everything that makes you feel at home. After all, your garden isn’t just for show — it’s for living. 💚⁠
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🌿 What’s one thing in your garden that you love? Tell us below!⁠
Ever wondered how some lawns look perfectly green, Ever wondered how some lawns look perfectly green, soft, and effortlessly manicured all year round? The secret isn’t magic — consistent care and a few pro tips make all the difference! Here are three must-know lawn care tricks to keep your grass looking like a golf course:⁠
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💧 1. Water Smart, Not More⁠: More water doesn’t always mean greener grass! Deep, infrequent watering encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more drought-resistant ⁠
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Water in the early morning helps prevent evaporation and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. A good soak two to three times a week is better than a daily light sprinkle!⁠
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✂️ 2. Mow the Right Way⁠: Cutting your grass too short might seem like a time-saver, but it can stress your lawn and invite weeds to take over. Instead, stick to the one-third rule—never remove more than one-third of the grass height at a time. ⁠
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This keeps it thick, healthy, and vibrant! And don’t forget to keep those mower blades sharp for a clean cut.⁠
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🌿 3. Feed Your Lawn Like a Pro⁠: Like us, lawns need food! A balanced fertiliser routine provides essential nutrients to keep grass strong and lush. Feed your lawn seasonally — high nitrogen in spring for growth, a balanced mix in summer for resilience, and a slow-release formula in autumn to prepare for winter.⁠
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With the proper care, your lawn can be the envy of the neighbourhood. Are you ready to transform your patch of green into a perfectly manicured masterpiece? ⁠
⁠Drop a 🌿 in the comments if you would love more maintenance tips 💚⁠
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📸Mt Waverley project front garden, completed 2023
If you’re looking for a tree that delivers year- If you’re looking for a tree that delivers year-round beauty, look no further than Cornus Satomi, aka the Pink-Flowering Kousa Dogwood! This stunner isn’t just another pretty plant—it’s a living work of art that transforms with every season. 🍃🍂❄️🌸⁠
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💖 Spring & Summer Magic – When Spring arrives, this lovely tree bursts into blush-pink bracts (not petals!) that look like something straight out of a fairytale. These flowers last for weeks, ensuring your garden is the envy of the neighbourhood!⁠
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🍂 Autumn Elegance — As summer fades, Satomi shifts into rich tones of deep red and burgundy, adding fiery warmth to your outdoor space.⁠
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❄️ Winter Interest – Even in the colder months, its unique branching structure and textured bark create a sculptural beauty against frosty backdrops.⁠
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🍓 Bonus? Edible Fruits! – Come late summer, this tree produces cute, raspberry-like fruits that are not only a treat for birds but also able to be made into homemade jams (they may be a little astringent and unpalatable eaten straight off the tree!).⁠
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Whether you’re after seasonal interest, soft elegance, or a tree that practically takes care of itself, Cornus Satomi is a must-have! Who else loves a garden that changes with the seasons? 🌿💫⁠
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📸Mt Waverley project detail, completed 2023
🚨 Sneak Peek Alert! 🚨✨⁠ ⁠ I can’t wa 🚨 Sneak Peek Alert! 🚨✨⁠
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I can’t wait to share this one with you! Here’s a first look at one of my favourite designs in the works for a wonderful family in Glen Iris. 🌿💦⁠
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This backyard is about a big impact in a small space—a compact pool area transformed into a private oasis packed with clever design features to enjoy all year round! ☀️🏊‍♂️ Cosy, stylish, and ultra-functional—what more could you want? 😍⁠
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Now, here’s the catch … Project construction ETA: 2027! Yep, I’ll be waiting a while to see this come to life, but trust me — it’ll be worth the wait! 🤩⁠
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What do you think? Would you love a dreamy backyard escape like this? Let me know in the comments! 👇🌿✨⁠

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There’s nothing better than a gorgeous timber de There’s nothing better than a gorgeous timber deck — it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun, enjoy a cup of coffee, or host a summer BBQ. But let’s be honest: Decks take a bit of TLC to keep them looking their best.⁠
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That’s why I wrote my latest blog: Eight Ways to Look After Your Timber Decking! 🌿🛠️ ⁠
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Whether you’re dealing with fading or cracks or want to keep your deck in shape for years, I’ve got you covered.⁠
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In this post, you’ll learn:⁠
✅ The easiest way to keep your deck clean (without too much elbow grease!)⁠
✅ How to protect it from harsh weather and prevent damage 🌧️☀️⁠
✅ The best oils and sealants to keep it looking fresh and polished⁠
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Timber decking is an investment, and with the right care, it can last years —while staying just as stunning as the day it was installed. Want to know how? Check out the full blog here:⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/eight-ways-to-look-after-your-timber-decking/⁠
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Do you have any tried-and-true deck maintenance hacks? If so, share them—I’d love to hear them!⁠
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📸Pic 1 Marybyrnong project, completed 2013⁠
📸Pic 2 Glen Waverley project, completed 2016⁠
📸Pic 3 Ashburton project, completed 2012⁠
📸Pic 4 Ashburton project, completed 2012⁠
📸Pic 5 Vermont South C project, completed 2022⁠
📸Pic 6 Highett project, completed 2023⁠
📸Pic 7 Vermont South A project, completed 2018⁠
📸Pic 8 Marybyrnong project, completed 2013⁠
Red poppies.❣️⁠ ⁠ Every year on Anzac Day, Red poppies.❣️⁠
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Every year on Anzac Day, we see red poppies worn with pride, laid in tribute, and woven into ceremonies across Australia and New Zealand. But have you ever considered why this delicate flower holds so much meaning?⁠
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After WWI, the poppy became a symbol of remembrance, inspired by the famous poem “In Flanders Fields,” in which these resilient flowers bloomed across battle-scarred landscapes. ⁠
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Despite the devastation, poppies flourished — a powerful reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and the lives lost in war.⁠
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On April 25th, when we pause to honour the ANZACs and all who have served, the poppy is more than just a flower — it’s a tribute to courage, a reflection on history, and a sign of gratitude. ⁠
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Whether pinned to a lapel or placed at a memorial, a poppy is a simple yet profound way to say, “We will remember them.” ⁠
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Did you be wearing a poppy this Anzac Day? Share your thoughts below.⁠ 💖⁠
Whether in gardening, home design, or personal sty Whether in gardening, home design, or personal style, developing your unique aesthetic takes time, experimentation, and a little courage! It’s not about following trends but figuring out what truly resonates with you. 🌸🎨⁠
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Maybe you love a wild, overgrown garden filled with vibrant colours and textures, or perhaps a minimalist, structured space with sleek lines brings you the most joy. The beauty of discovering your style is that it evolves, shaped by inspiration, experiences, and a willingness to explore new ideas.⁠
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And the best part? There’s no right or wrong! Your space—whether a garden, home, or creative project—should reflect you, not just what’s popular. So don’t be afraid to mix things up, trust your instincts, and embrace what makes you happy.⁠
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What’s one element that defines your style? Let’s chat in the comments! 👇✨⁠
An iguana sculpture isn’t just a quirky garden f An iguana sculpture isn’t just a quirky garden feature—it carries deep cultural meaning! Found in Mesoamerican, Caribbean, and South American traditions, iguanas symbolise patience, adaptability, and resilience—qualities defining a thriving garden.🦎⁠
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🏡 Why Add an Iguana Sculpture to Your Garden?⁠
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🦎 Adds Personality & Character – A fun, eye-catching focal point.⁠
🦎 Blends with Nature – Place it near rocks or tropical plants for a natural touch.⁠
🦎 Symbolic Meaning – A reminder of strength, resilience, and connection to nature.⁠
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A garden is more than just plants—it tells a story. Whether you love iguanas for their symbolism or think they look cool, an iguana sculpture will surely be a conversation starter! ⁠
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Would you add one to your garden? Let me know in the comments! 👇🦎✨⁠
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📸Berwick Project detail, front garden
🌹✨ Red Carpet Roses – A Groundcover Showsto 🌹✨ Red Carpet Roses – A Groundcover Showstopper! ✨🌿⁠
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This stunning groundcover was the scene-stealer in my recently completed project, easily spreading lush, vibrant blooms across the garden. ❤️⁠
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So, why the decision to pick this plant rather than other possible groundcovers to complete the planting palette for this project?⁠
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🌹Firstly and foremost, the client’s request was to build some roses as she loves them. She was particular about which variety or colour. I picked red as it contrasts well with the house and other plants within the design. I wanted a colour that would ‘pop’ but also tie through to other design elements!🌿⁠
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🌹Why a carpet rose? Well, I’m what you call a lazy gardener.  I generally stay away from roses, even though I love them, and they bring back some special memories for me. They are usually high maintenance! ⁠
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Unlike additional upright roses, carpet roses grow low and wide and are relatively disease-resistant. My loyal clients have young children and do not have the time to undertake garden maintenance! ⁠
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🌹 Pollinator Magnet – Bees 🐝and butterflies can’t resist its gorgeous blooms through spring to early autumn (if maintained well)! So, it’s perfect for a wildlife-friendly garden and if you love floriferous plants with an extended bloom period. ⁠
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Since it’s Easter Sunday, let’s discuss another cultural example of why red is significant!⁠ There is a wonderful Orthodox Easter tradition — red-dyed eggs! 🥚⁠
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Why red? This bold, vibrant colour symbolises life and victory, while the egg represents Jesus Christ’s resurrection—a powerful reminder of renewal and hope. ⁠
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Traditionally, these eggs are dyed on Holy Thursday for the Easter Sunday feast. Then, they are shared, cracked, and enjoyed with loved ones. This simple yet meaningful tradition has stood the test of time!⁠
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Does the colour red carry a special meaning or cultural significance for you? I would love to know!⁠
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📸 Mount Waverley project detail 2023⁠
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