This workshop was attended by thirteen eager participants, and following a welcome and acknowledgement of country each person attending was invited to introduce themselves and explain what they sought from developing a native garden and what they could contribute.

An interesting concept Shaun introduced was related to Biophilia which is explained on one website as a hypothetical human tendency to interact or be closely associated with other forms of life in nature.

Many talked about the kick they got out of observing native animal in or close to their property, and this certainly supported the basic biophilia hypothesis.

Discussion then moved to Indoor Potted Plants with the exhortation, ‘Don’t be afraid of putting native plants in pots’.

The trend towards small gardens and indoor living makes growing natives in indoor containers increasingly attractive.  As an example, Shaun explained that with understory rainforest plants – anything is possible! These plants are adapted to low light levels and so can do well indoors.

Some of the practicalities were explored.  For example, the difference between a “pot” and a “planter”– critical for indoors, the importance of good quality potting media, Irrigation and maintenance, and moving plants in seasons and outdoor spells

More Information includes Growing Native Plants Indoors. Wrigley and Fagg, Mount Annan Botanic Garden Native Plant Series, and the following links’

Moving on to Outdoor Potted Plants; Shaun canvassed, why grow in outdoor pots? Screening; Potted colour; Feature plant; Habitat Garden, Food; Fussy plants; Fit more plants!

This led to plant selection: Suitable pot size; One plant per pot, or many? Group plants with similar requirements e.g. rainforest/coastal, and displaying pots – grouping different size.

Pot types were next, including Terracotta, glazed, plastic, fibreglass etc.  Discussion in this section completing once again with Potting media, drainage, mulch, Irrigation and maintenance including pruning, feeding and fertilising, and lifetime of plants in pots

More info? see:   Habitat in a pot (sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au)

The workshop drew to a close with Hanging Baskets and Wall Plants, including the joys of epiphytes, the importance and use of Potting media and the ever-present Maintenance!

Anyone who would like a copy of Shaun’s species list can have one emailed on request to uwg@noosariver.com.au

Tony Haslam