If you are building a new home or renovating an existing home, you may decide to take your improvements outside. Landscape design is a fun and interesting process, one which the whole family can participate in.
There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to designing your own backyard. Thinking about new infrastructure, what plants to include, and where to put everything can sometimes seem like too much. However, if you take things one step at a time, things should get a lot easier.
Why should you include native plants in your landscape design?
Australia’s climate can be tough, hot, and dry. Most overseas plants are not well adapted to our conditions, and they can therefore struggle. Australian natives have all the right characteristics to make the perfect low maintenance garden plant. They are often drought resistant, hardy, and are not harmed by a lot of native insects that can destroy common garden plants. Out top five natives to include in your garden include:
- Eucalyptus:
Eucalyptus trees, or gum trees, are becoming more and more common in gardens throughout the world. Although a lot of Eucalyptus species are quite large, there are a variety of small flowering species which are perfectly suited to be the centerpiece of your garden. If possible, go for something which won’t grow too high, which has nice flowers, and which is suited to your climate.
- Bottlebrush:
The bottlebrush is one of Australia’s most iconic plants, with its unique flowers and vibrant colours. If you are looking for a nice flowering native to put in your new garden, then the bottlebrush should be at the top of your list. Not only do they look great, but they attract a variety of native wildlife as well.
- Orchids:
Although they can be difficult to grow, orchids are among the most beautiful flowering plants on the planet. If you do plan on growing some orchids, do your research and work out exactly what you need and which species are best suited to your environment.
- Kangaroo paws:
Another iconic Australian species is the Kangaroo paw. These are super easy to grow, are very drought tolerant, and make a great low maintenance garden plant.
- Banksia:
If you live in a cooler coastal area, then the Banksia is a plant that you should definitely consider including. Contrary to popular belief, not all banksias are large trees. In fact, many are small shrubs with beautiful flowers and very unique nuts.
Landscape design can be a very fun and rewarding process. If you are thinking about upgrading your garden, then consider including some native plants – you will thank yourself later! Make sure that you choose species which are suited to your climatic conditions. If you aren’t sure what to plant, then talk to someone at your local garden store.