There was an enthusiastic turnout for this month’s workshop ‘Where Do I Begin – Starting a Native Garden’. The garden tour and talk was at the Black Mountain property of Shaun Walsh, a landscape architect and gardener who is transforming the property he bought only two years ago. His vision was to create a country garden with formal and cottage elements using native plants.
During the tour of his garden, Shaun discussed the importance of having a design vision and then making a plan. He stressed that using native plants and creating biodiversity, by planting a mix of groundcovers, grasses, low and medium shrubs and trees, will ensure a healthy garden and provide the best habit for local wildlife. We were treated to an example of the wildlife using Shaun’s garden, as a red bellied black snake made an appearance and then quietly slithered away.
Shaun shared his knowledge of landscape gardening concepts such as designing a welcoming entrance and creating some drama through patterns of light and shade or concealment and revelation as you walk through the garden. Elements of balance and symmetry, mass planting, and foliage and form contrast were all highlighted in Shaun’s beautiful garden.
There were many questions from the workshop participants about problems they encountered in their own gardens. Shaun spoke about the importance of understanding your garden site including the type of soil, aspect and topography and choosing appropriate plant species to suit the conditions. He revealed his own gardening problems, such as ‘gluggy ’clay soil, and explained what he has done to manage these issues.
In creating his garden, he considered decisions such as views to be retained, where privacy was needed and which existing vegetation to keep or remove. Also covered were the more practical considerations for garden design such as water supply, access for pedestrians and cars, utility areas and maintenance requirements.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the garden tour and appreciated the interesting information and practical tips. There was plenty of time for further questions and discussion as everyone enjoyed the morning tea provided.
Vanessa Presling
