Waterwise gardening in a changing climate ABORIGINAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We respectfully acknowledge We also acknowledge the Contents Aboriginal and Torres Strait broader Aboriginal and Torres Islander peoples as the Strait Islander community and Traditional Owners and their connections with lands Introduction 04 custodians of the land and and waters, and recognise water on which all Australians and value their inherent rely. responsibility to care for and Traditional lands 05 protect them for thousands We pay our respects to Barapa of generations. Barapa, Dja Dja Wurrung, Region focus 09 Taungurung, Yorta Yorta, their We acknowledge Aboriginal Elders past, present and Victorians as Traditional Design vision 15 future, as Traditional Owners Owners and, in the spirit of and the custodians of the reconciliation, we remain Planning your ideal garden 27 land and water on which we committed to working in rely and operate. partnership with Traditional Owners to ensure meaningful, From the ground up 35 We acknowledge and respect ongoing contributions to the the continued cultural, social future of land and water and spiritual connections of Mulch and reap the benefits 39 management. all Aboriginal Victorians. Water: liquid gold 43 Creating a healthy garden 51 Planting 55 Contributors Plant guide 59 Learn more 76
The Smart Gardens initiative This edition of the booklet has Contributors to 2020 Edition: started in 1999 as a partnership been expanded to include advice Text: Mary Trigger, Coliban Water, between Coliban Water, City of and information for the whole City of Greater Bendigo, Greater Bendigo and the former Coliban Water region. The City of Dja Dja Wurrung Enterprises Department of Primary Industries. Greater Bendigo continues to trading as Djandak. support the development of this The Smart Gardens for a Dry Climate © Copyright Coliban Water and Disclaimer booklet and has provided funding Graphic design and 'Design booklet was first published in 2003 City of Greater Bendigo for this edition. Vision' illustrations: The information contained in this publication is of a general nature only. in collaboration with Coliban Water Billington Prideaux Partnership First published 2003 and the City of Greater Bendigo Coliban Water acknowledges and This publication is not intended to provide a definitive analysis or Revised edition 2007 and focused on the Greater thanks the City of Greater Bendigo Photographs: Coliban Water, discussion on each issue canvassed. Second revision 2008 Bendigo region. for its past contributions and Anthony Sheean, Pam Sheean, Third revision 2012 While Coliban Water and City of Greater Bendigo believe the information continued support in the Harley Douglas, SmartApproved Fourth revision 2014 contained herein is correct, it does not accept any liability whatsoever/ production of this booklet. Watermark, City of Greater Bendigo, Fifth revision 2020 howsoever arising from reliance on this publication. Therefore, every Mount Alexander Shire Council. reader should make their own enquiries, and conduct their own ISBN 978-0-646-82519-9 investigations, concerning every issue canvassed herein. Printed on 100% recycled paper
SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE 03 Introduction Gardening is about creating a beautiful and interesting space we can enjoy with our family and friends. It’s good for our physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection.
Traditional lands A large part of our region lies within the lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung. Land that provided for its people.
The land provided everything The Land was, at times, that was needed to sustain prosperous and gave The Coliban Water region gardens for longer periods of possible, and plan towards people for thousands of years. abundant harvests to our covers 16,500 square hotter and drier weather. future-proofing our gardens. Harley Douglas, Dhelkunya people. But, at times, the kilometres and the climate Dja Project Officer at Land was unforgiving; with Using water efficiently is Smart Gardens for a Dry varies significantly from Dja Dja Wurrung Enterprises long periods of drought and everyone’s responsibility, to Climate aims to provide Trentham in the south to trading as Djandak, writes even extreme cooling events help secure our water inspiration, guidance, advice Cohuna in the north. about the local plants used that later became known as supplies and maintain and further resources to help Historically, our region has by Djaara people for food, Ice Ages. greener and more liveable you get started. had a dry climate that has fibre and medicine. communities now and into Through all of this, our challenged gardeners. Gardening will always be the future. Dja Dja Wurrung people (or people have learned how to about creating a beautiful Great soft-rush Through our Strategy 2030 Djaara) have continuously thrive from our surroundings We need to be smart about and interesting space, we we are planning for a future thrived for thousands of by harvesting plants and the plants we select for our just need to adapt to the with less water for more generations within the area animals for food, fibre, and gardens and ensure we apply reality of our dry and people. Climate change of Central Victoria. medicine. water as efficiently as changing climate. means we are adapting our
04 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE TRADITIONAL LANDS 05 FOOD Meat such as kangaroo, wallaby and fish were just a PLANT NAMES IN THE small part of our diet. The DJA DJA WURRUNG remainder consisted of plant LANGUAGE material. Bakap Grass Tree (Xanthorrhoea australis) The roots of some plants provided potato-like tubers Buwatj Kangaroo Grass (Themada triandra) that are incredibly healthy and Dhurrungmil wawitj Sweet Apple-berry filling. Murnong, or Yam Daisy, Chocolate Lily tubers Spiny Headed Mat-rush (Billardiera cymosa) is prized for its tubers, as well as orchids, cumbungi and Dhurrung wurrkuk Black-anther Flax-lily lilies, to name a few. Murnong (Dianella revoluta) is prepared by roasting the not limited to, watercourses. CURRENT Djaa wawitj Inland Pigface (Carpobrotus modestus) tuber in hot ashes. These plants are traditionally harvested by women who PROJECTS Girrkitj Ruby Saltbush (Enchylaena tomentosa) Seeds from wattle trees such masterfully craft them into The Wanyarram Dhelk (Good as Wai Wai (Golden Wattle) Gitjawil matom Chocolate Lily (Arthropodium various objects. Waterhole) project is a and Ngarri (Sheoaks) can be strictum) and Vanilla Lily (Arthropodium milleflorum) partnership between Djandak eaten raw while young, while Djaara did not have different (Dja Dja Wurrung Enterprises) Mayn-mayn durrung Sticky Hop Bush other seeds like Bawatj names for each of the species and the North Central (Dodonaea viscosa) (Kangaroo Grass and Wallaby of fibre plants but referred to Catchment Management Grass) are ground into flour them collectively as witji. Murnong Yam Daisy (Microseris lanceolata) Authority (CMA) that is for cooking into damper. MEDICINE funded by the Aboriginal Mutjang Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) Berries from plants like Water Unit and the Victorian Ngarri Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) Girrkitj (Ruby Saltbush) and There are many plants that Government. Dhurrungmil wawitj (Apple- were used as medicines for Wai-wai Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha) Additional funding for berry) were consumed general ailments such as discrete work packages have Wararak Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata) straight from the plant or Dirik (Old Man Weed) for a also been provided by other collected in large amounts by cold or fever and, for more Werp yulanyuk Spreading Wattle stakeholders in Bendigo shaking the branches of the difficult-to-treat illnesses (Acacia genistifolia) Creek, including the City of plant and catching the falling like arthritis, Ngarri Greater Bendigo and Coliban Witji Spiny Headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia) berries in a Coolamon (a (Drooping Sheoak) was used. Water. Examples include vessel with curved sides), Witji Tall Sedge (Carex appressa) Many of the plants and instream and riverbank saving them for later to add methods used traditionally for works at Long Gully. The City Wurrak Silver Banksia (Banksia marginata) to meat for seasoning. medicine have unfortunately of Greater Bendigo also been lost due to heavy supported willow removal in FIBRE colonisation of Dja Dja Sheepwash Creek. Fibre refers to the plants that Wurrung Country. The project's achievements are used for creating baskets, Both the plants and the include more than two bags, mats, traps for fish, eel, knowledge passing away hectares of treated storm bird and duck, and for with our Elders before they water across two sites, seven sewing animal skins together. were able to pass it on to the terrestrial frog ponds, six Swamp Wattle; Yam Daisy; For more information on the plants mentioned in These plants are typically next generation. instream frog ponds and Drooping Sheoak this article see our Plant Guide on page 59. hardy sedges found near, but 10 hectares revegetated with 30,000 plants.
06 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE TRADITIONAL LANDS 07 OUR REGION Coliban Water Service Region
Region focus There are many beautiful and diverse parts of the Coliban Water region with varying soil types and climate.
OUR REGION The Coliban Water region covers 16,500 square kilometres of North-Central Victoria across nine local council areas, from Gannawarra Shire in the north to Macedon Ranges Shire in the south.
Kyneton Climate and soil types can Cohuna vary across our region, and there are different green waste and garden initiatives run by local councils.
08 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE REGION FOCUS 09
CITY OF GREATER Castlemaine Botanical Gardens BENDIGO
The city of Bendigo is sticky and waterlogged when surrounded by a greenbelt of wet. To grow produce in clay forest, including Box-Ironbark soil you need to improve and Mallee Eucalypts. The your topsoil. area produces premium wines, including Shiraz, from a Council initiatives growing viticulture industry. • Food Organics Garden Bendigo provides services to Organics is a convenient a large agricultural and and environmentally grazing area on the Murray friendly way to dispose of Plains to its north. your organic waste. Serviced towns • Transfer stations accept Bendigo, Heathcote, Elmore, green waste all year Goornong, Marong, Axedale round. Fees apply to some types of green waste. Climate • Mulch is available to buy The region has a relatively at transfer stations. dry temperate climate with warm to hot summers and Port of Echuca; Pink Cliffs, Heathcote; Pall Mall, Bendigo • Break it Down Worm Farm cool to cold winters. Soil and Compost Bin Rebate MACEDON Program. Soil The region has an elevated RANGES risk of erosion from bare The soil is a mixture of clay • Biomix sells compost at CAMPASPE www.mrsc.vic.gov.au soils in dryland production The Macedon Ranges is and stone which can become selected nurseries that Campaspe Shire is at the heart areas. Salinity and acid renowned for its pristine dry and compacted in has been produced from MOUNT of one of the richest and most sulfate can also affect soil landscapes, native forests, summer or waterlogged the organic waste ALEXANDER diverse agriculture regions in quality in the region. and unique natural features when wet. collection. Community groups can access up to Victoria. The Murray River such as forested gullies, Mount Alexander is a Council initiatives Council initiatives three cubic metres of the winds along the shire’s waterfalls, native grasslands prominent landmark rising to • Opt-in food and garden bin • Fortnightly organics compost at no cost. northern boundary. There is and mineral springs. 744 metres. The region has collection. The service is collection for residents in variation in vegetation across stunning natural landscapes • The council publishes a not available in rural areas. Serviced towns urban Bendigo and Marong. the plains and river valleys, with abundant wildlife, fern book on the Indigenous Kyneton, Malmsbury, Tylden gullies, pastoral country, from grassland plains to • Waste Education Program • Compost Revolution Plants of Bendigo and woodlands, granite boulders woodlands to river red gum called WickED (Waste In Climate program for residents Home Grown, a practical and flora reserves. floodplains. Campaspe – Know, who live outside the guide to growing your The region enjoys good Educate, Do) designated organics own fresh organic food. Serviced towns rainfall and a more Serviced towns temperate climate than areas Castlemaine, Maldon, collection boundary. www.bendigo.vic.gov.au Echuca, Rochester, • Rural Tree Scheme Lockington, Gunbower to the north and south. Newstead, Harcourt, • Mulch available to • National Tree Day Taradale, Fryerstown, purchase at the Eaglehawk Climate Soil Planting Days Campbells Creek, Guildford, Landfill, 191-193 Upper The region has volcanic soil The region has a dry • Landcare support Elphinstone and Chewton. California Gully Road. temperate climate with warm which can be challenging for to hot summers and cool to www.campaspe.vic.gov.au gardeners as it hardens cold winters. when dry and becomes
10 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE REGION FOCUS 11 Climate Trentham Falls The climate is warm and temperate with significant rainfall throughout the year. • Waste is converted into The average annual average composted mulch which rainfall is 609 mm. is available at no cost. Soil • During November, Council The region has a diversity of accepts green waste from soil types that reflect the residents free of charge. topography, climate, organic This service encourages activity and age. Castlemaine residents to clean up their is on low sedimentary properties in readiness undulations and hills of the for the bushfire season. dissected uplands. Much of the surrounding area is hills • Council has offered and wooded slopes with subsidised compost bins rocky outcrops and granitic and worm farms. Not boulders. currently available, but Council may restart the Council initiatives program. • No green waste bin (as at www.hepburn.vic.gov.au time of publishing). Murray River at Gunbower; Pyramid Hill; Sebastian Towns serviced • Free green waste disposal HEPBURN CENTRAL at certain times of the Cohuna, Gunbower, Leitchville Hepburn Shire is renowned GOLDFIELDS year. predominately wool, dairy Council initiatives Climate for its natural beauty and Stunning natural parks and mineral springs. The town of • Composting information and wheat, with some wine, • Free green waste disposal A semi-arid climate or mountain ranges along with Trentham is the eastern part is available on the council fruit, vegetables and olives. four times a year. steppe climate. fabulous creeks, rivers and website. of the shire, which is hilly lakes. A gold mining area Towns serviced Soil with significant native forests. that has developed on the • Gardening workshops. www.loddon.vic.gov.au Bridgewater, Boort, Dingee, A variety of soil types Towns serviced back of agriculture, mainly www.mountalexander. Inglewood, Jarklin, Korong GANNAWARRA combined with a suitable cropping and sheep farming. vic.gov.au Vale, Laanecoorie, Mitiamo, climate can support a range Trentham The Loddon River flows Towns serviced Mysia, Pyramid Hill, of enterprises across both Climate LODDON Serpentine, Tarnagulla, through the region, feeding irrigated and dryland Dunolly, Bealiba The climate is cool and moist. Wedderburn into the Murray River, the properties. The shire is split Climate The Loddon Valley is known shire’s northeastern border. distinctively between the Winters are distinctly cold and Climate as Victoria’s backyard. The The Gunbower Forest is an riverine plain to the east and snowfall is not uncommon. Warm and temperate with Loddon River runs through Mediterranean climate with important site for birds, the Mallee to the west. Soil four distinct seasons. The the region from the foothills warm, dry summers and cool, mammals and amphibians, climate is generally dry and The fertile red volcanic soil of the Central Highlands to mild winters. and sites of indigenous and Council initiatives mild with summer average has sustained a potato the northern river plains. The European significance. The • Opt-in green waste highs around 28°C and Soil growing industry. shire’s large size and low region’s economy relies on collection service for winter highs of 12°C. The population makes it one of High quality soil when good irrigated agriculture, food Cohuna. Council initiatives winter months are generally the most rural shires in land management practices manufacturing, and tourism. the wettest and the average • Four transfer stations • Green waste, such as tree Victoria. The region supports are applied to combat soil annual rainfall is around accept green waste. branches, grass and leaf a mix of agriculture, salinity and erosion. 530mm. litter, can be taken to www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au transfer stations. 12 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE REGION FOCUS 13 Design vision
Bridgewater on Loddon; Mount Alexander Shire; Harcourt; Malmsbury viaduct What is your ideal garden space for your lifestyle? Take inspiration from
Soil MITCHELL Soil our five design vision gardens. Soils are generally shallow The majority of soil around and have lost nutrients Located just 40 kilometres Tooborac is fertile granite through the weathering north of Melbourne, Mitchell soil with excellent water processes. In many places, Shire is Victoria’s fastest- retention. the base rock lies close to growing municipality with a Council initiatives the ground surface and the mix of rural and urban living. roots of hardy plants grow The region has rolling foothills, • Compost bin and worm directly into the open farmland, mountain farm subsidy program. disintegrating rock. ranges, rivers and creeks. Receive up to 50% of the Towns serviced purchase price back when Council initiatives you purchase a compost • Opt-in green waste Tooborac bin or worm farm. collection service for Climate • Green waste accepted at Dunolly. Tooborac is 306 metres four Resource Recovery • Four transfer stations above sea level and has a Centres. accept green waste. warm and temperate • Council publish a Mediterranean climate, with www.centralgoldfields. Sustainable Gardening significant rainfall in spring vic.gov.au and a Vegetable Planting and winter and variation Guide. between seasons. www.mitchellshire. vic.gov.au 14 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE DESIGN VISION 15 NATIVE GARDEN Key features: Elevated terrace, firepit, dry creek to pond, shade screen, stone walls, steps and wooden bridge.
Plant species (this page) include: Silver Wattle canopy underplanted with Billy Button, Feather Spear-grass, Ruby Saltbush and Cushion Plant species (this page) Bush. include: Large terrace pot contains a Weeping Bottlebrush hedge Dry creek feature includes Grass Tree. along boundary, underplanted informal plantings of Feather Gravel open space/paths with Sticky Boronia. Spear-grass, Spiny Headed from terrace stone steps to Mat-Rush, Cut-leafed Daisy Creeping Boobialla lawn runs bridge over dry creek includes and Running Postman (next in front of hedge. firepit entertainment area. to bridge).
16 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE DESIGN VISION 17 ENTERTAINMENT Plant species include: GARDEN Lemon-scented Eucalypt canopy above TifTuf Couch Key features: lawn (open games area). Covered deck area, tiled Informal border around patio, outside kitchen with boundary provides screening. BBQ area including bar Border planting includes: fridge, sink, storage, dining Silver Banksia, Pomegranate, table and chairs. Water tank Mexican Orange Blossom (left behind tree). and Crimson Mallee tree cluster. All border plants are underplanted with Blue Chalk Sticks. A rosemary hedge separates the games area from the patio. The patio is shaded by a pergola with grapevine. Foreground planting (near steps) includes Gaudi Chaudi Grevillea and Silky Net-bush (left).
18 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE DESIGN VISION 19 CHILDREN'S PLAY SPACE GARDEN
Key features: Raised garden beds, fenced chicken run with coop, cubby house, trampoline and paved area. Plant species include: Crepe Myrtle trees in raised bed on left boundary with lavender and rosemary bush understorey. Assorted vegetables and herbs in raised beds. Espaliered apple trees on chicken run fence. Robinia tree provides dappled shade. Large pots of tulips add colour in spring.
20 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE DESIGN VISION 21 COTTAGE GARDEN Key features: Woven wire front fence, a brick-edged gravel path flanked by English lavender leads to home entrance. Informal slate paving provides space for relaxation. Plant species include: A Bougainvillea climbs the veranda and a Blue Pacific hedge runs along the front of the veranda. Lawn areas either side of the path are separated by informal garden beds and rambling paths. A selection of trees including Chinese Elm (rear), Cimmaron Ash, Ornamental Pears and Crepe Myrtles provide shade, colour and texture. Garden bed plantings include: Lorraine Lee and Madame Hardy roses, cistus, daffodils, iris, Round-leaved Cotyledon and Acanthus Mollis. Banksia roses provide privacy on side fence.
22 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE DESIGN VISION 23 TOWNHOUSE (SMALL SPACE) GARDEN Key features: Small outdoor terrace with screening and vertical vegetable garden. Plant species include: Potted fruit trees (lime, orange and blueberry). Ornamental potted plants include Weeping Maple, Dwarf Sacred Bamboo, Dwarf Kangaroo Paw, Fishbone Fern, Peperomia, Aloe and Madagascar Jewel Plant. Water feature with water lilies.
24 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE DESIGN VISION 25 EXAMPLE OF SITE ANALYSIS
Planning your ideal garden Once you know what type of space you want, take time to understand your site and plan your ideal garden.
START SMALL The feature points that draw your eye? The harmony BUT PLAN BIG! between your garden and Gardens can tend to grow house? Where to begin? and evolve haphazardly! It all starts with a good A plant that caught your eye garden plan. You might at the nursery; the rose plant tackle one section at a time you got for your birthday; the as energy, time and money friend that always gives you dictates. Or you might go all cuttings whenever you visit; Backyard Blitz so you don’t or the box of 50 daffodil have to look at the dustbowl bulbs you had to buy for the of a lawn for another Whatever you decide, work school fundraiser. summer. Just remember to your plan. To come up Before you know it, your gardens take time to grow with a good plan you need to garden is looking a bit and a mature and fast fix can understand your site. chaotic! Where is the flow? be an expensive fix.
26 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANNING YOUR IDEAL GARDEN 27 SITE ANALYSIS EXAMPLE OF A GARDEN PLAN Conditions vary across the Step 1 region in terms of frost, rainfall and soil types. Plants What exists? that grow well in Bendigo might struggle in Trentham. Create a mudmap (basic One of the best things you sketch - see page 26) can do is observe your garden of your property. for a year. Easier said than Draw the main structural done, but this will give you features: house, garage, an accurate picture of your fences, pathways, shed, garden through the seasons outdoor taps, clothesline, when light and shade and patio, rainwater tank, garden moisture can vary enormously. beds, major trees and lawn If you don’t have the patience areas. to do this, have a walk around Mark north on your map. A your neighbourhood and north-facing garden is observe what plants are doing usually exposed to the sun well, and where they are all day, however, west-facing located in relation to sun gardens receive the and shade. Hakea bucculenta; Isopogon strongest sun at the hottest anemonifolius Ask the neighbours for the part of the day in summer. plant names (gardeners are a Where are your sunny and friendly mob and are often shady areas in summer and pottering around in the front winter? Do you have garden), or take a photo and west-facing walls or paved ask at your local nursery. areas that will reflect and intensify the heat? When a hot summer wind blows, what sections of your garden area are most exposed to drying out? 6 STEPS TO 1. What exists? 2. What are your needs? Do you have a sloping block? PLANNING Are there any drainage YOUR IDEAL 3. What is your style? issues where the ground is often too wet because of GARDEN 4. Look at your plants run-off, or too dry because 5. The research water runs off before it can soak in? 6. Develop a plan
28 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANNING YOUR IDEAL GARDEN 29 By grouping plants according to their water needs you can Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 water a whole garden bed Step 5 Step 6 when required and not just What are your What is your style? Look at your plants because one plant in that The research Develop a plan bed is looking thirsty. needs? How will your garden Once you understand your List any major structures you Once you have decided on Water zone 1 (WZ1) garden Create a wish list. Do you want complement the style or era site and have an idea of the would like to include, e.g. what you want and what you beds will be located on your more space for the kids to of your house? style of garden you like, it rainwater tank, sculpture, can realistically achieve and comes down to the plants garden plan in areas that are feature rocks, raised garden afford, you can play with play? An entertainment area Do you want a simple, low you choose to give you the exposed to hot, windy bed, drip-watering system. your garden plan exploring to enjoy the summer maintenance garden or do look you want to create. conditions. Plants selected Make an estimate of the cost different options. Tracing evenings? More birds visiting? you enjoy working in the for this zone will need to be involved. Can you do it paper overlays can work well A deciduous tree to the north garden regularly to create a You need to work with your drought-tolerant and tough. yourself, or do you need a at this stage. or west to provide summer canvas of colour? site and be adaptable to what Ideally, once they are licensed builder or plumber? shade and winter warmth to plants will create that style. Decide what needs to be Do you want a native garden established, they will not your house? Do you need For example, you may want a Create a list of plants you done first i.e. the big jobs to provide food and shelter require additional watering. screening plants to provide garden that features a need to create the style of such as expanding garden for wildlife or do you prefer more privacy? Do you want Weeping Maple. One blast of Water zone 2 (WZ2) garden garden you desire. Group beds to reduce lawn area or a cottage garden layered for to grow your own produce? a hot northerly wind in beds are those that receive plants according to your installing a rainwater tank for colour and texture? Or some shade during the How can your garden be summer and there’s a good water zones. Can you a vegetable garden. perhaps a formal garden of summer and are reasonably more suited to a dry climate? chance your maple will be a relocate plants from within clipped hedges and roses? protected from drying winds. Focus on one area at a time Where to locate a rainwater shrivelled stick. Consider your garden or will you need Plants selected for this zone so you are not overwhelmed. tank, a greywater treatment Think about creating focal instead Silver Princess to purchase new plants? will have a moderate system or irrigation system? points of interest within your (Eucalyptus caesia) that will Make an estimate of the cost Remember, it doesn’t all drought-tolerance. Once they Do you want to reduce or garden. These are features cope with the conditions and involved. This can be time have to be done are established, they will remove your lawn? Can you that draw your eye: a tree provide the look you are after. consuming as you’ll need to immediately, but rather that cascades with flowers in require water every 2-4 weeks decide what plants you want, according to a well thought replace any hard surface Is your garden exposed to summer; an interesting group depending on conditions. their mature height and out garden plan. concrete paths with more winter frosts? Many areas in of large rocks; a sculpture or width, and the spacing permeable surfaces? our region are noted for Water zone 3 (WZ3) garden attractive birdbath; a tree beds, most types of lawns between them for the size of How much time do you want frosts, and appropriate that blazes red in autumn. and vegetable gardens are your bed. If you visit your to spend maintaining your plants need to be selected. Just don’t overdo the focal your heavy water users. local nursery you should find garden? Be realistic! If you points or your garden will One of the most important Ideally you may have a low the height and width plus work full-time and seem to look too busy. factors to consider when area of your garden where the spacing recommendation spend your weekends driving gardening in a dry climate is on the plant label. Look through garden rain tends naturally to run your kids to basketball games the water needs of your magazines, botanic gardens allowing you to grow thirsty Remember you can save all over Victoria, then a large, plants, and grouping them or your neighbourhood plants. In a dry climate it is money if you buy young high-maintenance garden together according to the gardens. Make notes and take best to reduce garden beds plants that will soon grow to may not be for you. amount of water they need photos of what appeals to you. of plants that require regular the dimensions of the more to survive. Make a note of the initial watering. expensive larger plants. Also, major works that need to be Zone your garden beds by young plants are more likely done, eg: replace front lawn, grouping your plants to establish and survive, relocate clothesline, break up according to their water especially natives. concrete path, remove tree. needs. They can be a mix of indigenous (local), native (Australian) or exotic (non-Australian) plants.
30 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANNING YOUR IDEAL GARDEN 31 SMALL SPACES • Courtyard gardens often contain a lot of pots. HARNESSING Courtyard gardening Containers look great RUN OFF when they are grouped WATER SENSITIVE CITIES If you have an enclosed In the natural environment, together, with pots of all courtyard you need to What is a water sensitive city? rain slowly filters through different shapes and sizes consider the following issues the soil into the groundwater closely clustered. A water sensitive city is one which is liveable, when developing a plan. resilient, sustainable and productive. They are table and eventually enters Balcony gardening places where people want to live and work. our rivers and streams. The • Courtyards often have flow rate is slowed down by limited access to sunlight. Balconies offer a great space It is a place that: plants and other natural If this is the case, select to relax and flex the green features in the environment Make the most of courtyards and • serves as a potential water supply catchment, shade tolerant plants or thumb. Typically, balcony allowing nutrients and balconies with potted plants providing a range of different water sources at use pots on wheels that gardens consist of pots and pollutants to be removed. a range of different scales, and for a range of can be moved about easily. small, raised veggie beds. An This process results in clean excellent option for kitchen different uses; • Courtyards tend to be water entering our waterways. gardening. Consider the • Select plants that will grow • provides ecosystem services and a healthy paved and enclosed often In urban landscapes, following issues when in the conditions of your natural environment, thereby offering a range creating quite hot vegetation has been cleared designing your balcony balcony. If you have a of social, ecological, and economic benefits; and conditions. While plants and surfaces sealed by garden. south-facing balcony you will help to cool the area, • consists of water sensitive communities where concrete and bitumen. When will need shade tolerant make sure you include an • If you live in a flat or unit citizens have the knowledge and desire to make it rains large amounts of plants. North-facing efficient watering system check to see if your body wise choices about water, are actively engaged water rapidly enters our balconies will require sun as their water requirements corporation has any in decision-making, and demonstrate positive stormwater drains carrying tolerant plants. Most plant will be high. specific rules relating to behaviours such as conserving water at home litter and pollutants. labels will indicate the what you can put on your and not tipping chemicals down the drain. Gardeners can help reduce • Poor drainage and flooding sun/shade preference of a balcony. this problem and utilise a can be problems with plant. Building water sensitive urban design valuable water source. courtyards that are mainly • Avoid putting too many infrastructure is one way cities can move towards • Potted plants dry out very paved surfaces. If this is large pots on your balcony. becoming more water sensitive. If you are designing a new quickly so consider the case use container Remember containers get garden or modifying an self-watering pots, check In 2017/2018, the Cooperative Research Centre pots with saucers and even heavier when you existing one, consider regularly. Make sure excess for Water Sensitive Cities undertook a research don’t overwater. water them. incorporating Water Sensitive water runoff is collected project and co-developed a Water Sensitive City Urban Design principles. It can • Courtyard space can be • Balconies can be quite in pot saucers. Vision and Transition Strategy for the city of be as simple as installing a quite limited. You can exposed to high wind Bendigo. It provides a good local model for other • Neighbours will not rainwater tank, removing an create an illusion of a potentially resulting in cities in the region. larger space by using pots toppling over or plants appreciate water impervious surface such as a mirrors and layering plants. dehydrating. Select wind cascading down from The region’s future climate is predicted to be concrete path and replacing Think about using your tolerant plants that don’t your balcony every time hotter and drier with occasional intense storms. with porous pavers or creating vertical spaces by grow too tall and avoid you water. Likewise The water sensitive cities model can be applied a beautiful rain garden. espaliering trees on a wall, light plastic pots. You can secure your pots to your to the broader region collaboratively, to achieve a tiered shelving, hanging also consider attaching a balcony so they don’t more sustainable, liveable and resilient future. baskets or window boxes. screen of matting to your become missiles. Water sensitive cities need community champions Learn more Page 76 balcony railing to reduce to drive change, support decision making and wind exposure. care for water resources.
Learn more Page 76
32 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANNING YOUR IDEAL GARDEN 33 Lawn alternatives best where height can be LAWNS kept at 5cm or higher. Grows Consider replacing lawn by Lawn areas are lovely for in full sun to semi-shade. extending garden beds. Or children and adults to sit and use pebbles, gravel or mulch Choose non-grass play. They also help lower as these permeable surfaces alternatives. Some really the air temperature in allow rain to soak into the good plants that aren’t summer, cooling the hot soil. This works well in areas, grasses make great lawn winds that blow towards such as the side of the house, alternatives in areas of low your windows. They can be, where lawns often receive foot traffic or no traffic. Open however, big water guzzlers! insufficient light. Why not spaces with no foot traffic That is why in times of put stones down the side allow for some of the drought, restrictions on and plant out with some greatest flexibility in terms watering lawns are applied Mat-rush (Lomandra spp.), of style and plant choices. In to help us conserve our Tussock-grass (Poa spp.) or areas that can be difficult to limited supply of water. Clivia (Clivia nobillis)? establish lawn such as under If a lawn is important to you trees or near eaves consider Consider using native grasses and your family, consider Creeping Boobialla as an alternative. They are some of the following points; (Myoporum parvifolium), adapted to our soils; cope Matted Bush-pea (Pultenaea • If you want a traditional with summer temperatures pedunculata), Grevillea From the ground up lawn consider a hardy turf often staying green all year ‘Gaudi Chaudi’ and Purple such as Couch, Kikuyu or round with not much water Coral Pea (Hardenbergia Healthy soil is the key to a healthy Buffalo. The latter is a and only need mowing a few violacea) or Australian Native better choice as Couch times a year. Often a Violet (Viola hederacea). For garden. Find out how to improve your and Kikuyu both have combination of native lawn areas of light traffic consider tendencies to invade your species is used to grow a Dwarf Mondo Grass, Lawn soil and choose the right plants. garden beds creating hard-wearing, drought- Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis), additional weeding work. tolerant lawn that looks good Blue Rock Bindweed all year round. They can be • Keep your lawn straight- (Convolvulus sabatius), slow to get going, but will edged and of a regular Kidney Weed (Dichondra self-seed over time. repens) or Pennyroyal rectangular or L-shape as Soil provides plants with matter releasing nutrients, (Mentha pulegium). More these shapes are more Weeping Grass (Microlaena support, nutrients, water and increasing drainage and lawn alternatives are efficient to water than stipoides): tolerant of all air. Just as we feed, water, aeration to your soil. available. No matter what curved lawns. kinds of soil and full sun to and nurture our plants, so we Understanding your soil will semi-shade; copes with high you choose, check that it's • Make your lawn as level need to feed, water, and help you to improve your soil temperatures; moderate right for the conditions and as possible so that water nurture our soil. The health and to choose the right plants water usage; looks good and that it is not a weed. can soak in rather than of all soil types will be for your garden because not can be mowed. run off. A slight slope will Artificial lawns improved by adding organic all soils are the same, and help shed excess water matter such as compost, while one plant loves a clay Kangaroo Grass (Themeda Although artificial lawns during a downpour. aged manures and mulch. soil, another plant will triandra): can be mowed to don’t need watering, they are 3cm; will tolerate traffic and Earthworms and soil microbes struggle to survive. • Can you reduce your lawn a petroleum-based product requires very little water. readily break down organic area to only one feature that absorbs heat and Grows in full sun to semi-shade. space to sit and play? threatens wildlife habitat. Wallaby Grass (Rytidosperma They create pollution and spp.): great for areas of low waste in the manufacturing traffic; requires little water; process and are not biodegradable.
34 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE FROM THE GROUND UP 35 UNDERSTANDING • the movement of water across your garden, so it is a If your sample forms a matter. The small clay soil it is almost dry, to help get into and through your soil good idea to test from spongy ball, but is a bit particles bind with the air into the soil. Do not do YOUR SOIL different areas. crumbly, then it is a loam - broken down organic matter this if your soil is wet or very • the amount of organic lucky you! forming clumps. This results dry as the soil structure will Soil across the region matter (the remains of 1. Take enough soil to fit in in increased pore spaces be damaged. Wait until the living things) in your soil the palm of your hand. These three categories are Soil type varies considerably allowing better drainage and soil is damp. fairly broad and you may across the Coliban Water • the activity of living things 2. Wet the soil a little at a plant root movement. Plus, have a combination of soil region. From a mix of sandy such as earthworms, ants time until it is just damp. earthworm tunnels help Sandy soil loam and light clay from types, eg: clay loam. and microbes and water move through the soil. Sandy soils consist of large Echuca to Cohuna; sandy to 3. Knead it into a ball or Your soil will be less prone soil particles that allow silty loams across the greater • the availability of sausage. Clay soil to becoming dry and cracked water to drain freely. A little part of the City of Bendigo; nutrients. Clay soil is made up of very If your ball feels smooth and or sloppy and waterlogged. too freely! As a result plants sandy loams around Elmore, fine particles. The pore spaces can be shaped like plasticine dry out quickly and valuable Harcourt North, Ravenswood Simple soil test tend to be small making it If you have a hard crust on without breaking, your soil is nutrients tend to wash away. Time to get your hands dirty! more of a challenge for the the surface of your soil you and Shelbourne; light clays clay. around Boort and Dunolly; This basic test will help you movement of water, air, plant may want to sprinkle a To improve a sandy soil silty clay to loam around to determine if you have If you can’t mould your soil roots and soil organisms dusting of gypsum powder (a Regularly dig in fine compost Kyneton and loam soil around sandy, loam or clay soil. Be or it falls apart easily, you such as earthworms. Clays mineral conditioner) over to a depth of around 5cm Castlemaine, Trentham and aware that your soil may vary have sandy soil. tend to hold water and your soil before you dig the and add a layer of fine mulch Maldon (see our Region focus nutrients well, and if they are soil over. to the surface. This will add balanced, are a great soil. on page 9). Clay soil may need deep- organic matter to your sandy In a nutshell, soil comes from The downside of clay soil is ripping or breaking up when soil helping to bind soil rocks. The type of soil in your THE KEY IS TO UNDERSTAND WHAT TYPE OF SOIL that it can hold water a little area depends on the types YOU HAVE AND HOW TO IMPROVE IT, SO THAT PLANTS too well, resulting in poor of rocks originally there. ADAPTED TO THAT SOIL TYPE WILL FLOURISH. water drainage. This can These rocks have been result in water getting into ground down over thousands your soil and not draining of years to form your soil. away so that your plants These range from rocks that affectively drown! Or if a clay have produced large gravelly soil dries out, like pottery, it soil particles which form our can harden, making it difficult sand soil types, to rocks that for water to soak in. have worn down to produce To improve your clay soil fine soil particles which form our clay soil types. Spread around 5-10cm of coarse compost to the surface Wind and rain over time has of your soil when it is damp. also moved soil around as Dig it into a depth of around have human activities such 20cm. Do not overwork the as farming, mining and urban soil. Do this once a year in development. autumn or spring. Be patient, The type of soil you have will it may take 2-3 years to see determine; improvement in your clay soil. • the amount of space Adding organic matter to
between soil particles your clay soil encourages earthworms and soil Earthworm tunnels help water move through the soil; if a hard crust forms (pore space) for air, water Adding organic matter, such as sprinkle gypsum powder; clay soil needs breaking up when it is dry to get and plant roots compost, can raise your soil pH microbes. These organisms air into the soil decompose the organic
36 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE FROM THE GROUND UP 37 particles in your soil and waxy soil coating. Plus, the SOIL AND increasing its ability to hold action of digging your NUTRIENTS water and nutrients. You will compost into the soil helps need to add organic matter to form little cracks in the A healthy, thriving garden is to your sandy soil about waxy surface to help the continually taking nutrients once a year. At least sandy water get through. Compost from the soil. Adding organic soils are easy to dig! also causes the microbe matter to your soil helps to population to explode, feed your plants. Healthy Loam soil helping to bind the mineral plants cope much better Loam soils fall somewhere particles in your soil, with less water. between sand and clay and improving structure and The pH of your soil controls are a mixture of fine and helping it hold moisture. how much food your plants coarse particles. They drain Wetting agents are another can obtain. It is like a key well and have a good nutrient option. This is a special type that unlocks or locks up base for gardening. So relax, of detergent that reduces the nutrients. pH is a measure of add some organic matter surface tension of the water, how acidic or alkaline your occasionally, and pity those allowing it to wet the waxy soil is and can easily be gardeners battling clay! surface of the soil particles tested with a pH testing kit SOIL AND WATER so the water can then get from your garden centre. On into the soil. However, care the pH scale from 0 to 14, Mulch and reap When you water the garden needs to be taken as wetting less than 7 is considered or when it rains you want to agents can damage the acidic, in increasing degree the benefits ensure as much as that water leaves of some plants if you to 0; pH 7 is said to be neutral; as possible soaks into your accidently splash them. In and above 7, increasing to soil. Sounds easy, but do you addition, many wetting pH 14, is called alkaline. Mulching is the best way to save have some challenging agents are synthetic, usually If your soil pH is either very situations? derived from petroleum, and water in the garden, reducing low (acidic) or high (alkaline), should not be used near your plants can struggle to Water-repellent soil waterways as they can harm evaporation by up to 70 per cent survive. In the middle is the frogs and other aquatic life. When you water your soil, optimum for growth for most does it just bead and run off? Terracing plants. Once you know the pH MULTITUDES OF In a dry climate mulching If you dig down a couple of of your soil you can either your garden will significantly The slope of your garden centimetres after watering, is select plants suited to that BENEFITS! reduce evaporation of water it as dry as a bone? You may may result in water simply from the soil. In fact, it has range or adjust your soil pH. Mulch is an important part of have what’s called water- running off before it has a been shown that a the garden because it repellent soil or hydrophobic chance to soak in. If you You can raise your soil pH 70-millimetre thick layer of smothers weeds, keeps your soil. The soil can form a sort have noticed this, you may by adding organic matter, mulch will reduce soil soil cooler in summer, adds of crust and water just runs want to consider terracing especially aged chicken evaporation by as much as nutrients to the soil and off the top. This happens your beds. Cut a series of manure. Or you can sprinkle 70 per cent! helps hold water in the soil. when your soil particles steps into your bed and dolomite, a limestone-based develop a waxy coat. support the soil with upright product available at garden sleepers. Ensure each level is centres. To lower your soil So, what to do? Add compost relatively flat, but with a pH add sulphur or iron to your soil each autumn and gentle slope for excess water sulphate, also available from spring. When you add to escape. garden centres. compost soil microbes and fungi help to break down the Learn more Page 76
38 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE MULCH AND REAP THE BENEFITS 39 TYPES OF MULCH reducing evaporation and letting water into the soil. There are a lot of different Fine mulches (smaller than mulches available. 2mm) tend to soak up and • Organic mulches are from hold water in the mulch formerly living things rather than the soil. Native such as trees, straw and plants tend to prefer a bush composts. They add mulch that has a mix of nutrients to the soil and mulch particle sizes, much reduce water loss. Organic like you would find on the mulch breaks down and floor of your local forest. needs to be replaced regularly. Avoid artificially BEWARE! coloured and dark If you are thinking of using a mulches as the dyes used fresh organic mulch such as could leach into the chipped tree pruning from surrounding soil and they your garden, take care. Fresh heat up quickly. timber mulch needs to be • Inorganic mulches include left in the weather for things like stone, pebbles around three months to and crushed bricks. They leach out plant toxins, or to do not provide much break down sufficiently so benefit to your soil that it is not taking all the beyond reducing nitrogen from your soil. evaporation and keeping Likewise, be wary of mowing Inorganic mulches the soil cooler. Inorganic the lawn and spreading grass mulch is low maintenance cuttings on your garden. As as they do not need to be they break down they get replaced regularly and is hot, potentially burning your better than hard surfaces plants. Grass cuttings also as it allows water to tend to mat together HOW TO 1. Get rid of any weeds. penetrate into the soil preventing water from 2. Make sure the soil and slows down runoff. MULCH soaking into your soil. Better is wet. The type of mulch you use to compost your grass No matter what mulch 3. Lay your mulch to a will vary depending on what cuttings and then add them you choose, mulching Organic mulches depth of 70mm. plants you are growing. Pea to your garden. is easy. straw, sugar cane and 4. Don’t mulch right up lucerne hay break down to the trunk or stem quickly, releasing nutrients of your plants. for heavy feeders such as vegetables and roses. Pebble and stone mulches are great for hardy succulents. In most garden beds, generally a chunky mulch (pieces larger than 5mm) is best for
40 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE MULCH AND REAP THE BENEFITS 41 WHEN TO MULCH Basically, you want your soil to be reasonably moist from winter and spring rains before you mulch, traditionally in early summer. The idea being that once the rains have soaked into your soil and you’ve mulched over you will reduce water loss during the summer heat. With changing rainfall patterns, you may need to monitor your soil moisture levels to decide when is the best time to mulch leading into summer.
Water: liquid gold Ensure you follow the Permanent
Water Saving Rules and apply Make sure your soil is reasonably moist before you mulch water as efficiently as possible.
WATER: OUR MOST PRECIOUS RESOURCE Successful gardening in a dry climate is a combination of good soil and mulch maintenance, choosing the right plants and using water as efficiently as possible.
42 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE WATER: LIQUID GOLD 43 WHEN TO WATER chance to really soak in. for moisture up near the Using an automatic surface of the soil. If you This will vary depending on watering system set to can’t water because of water 5 PERMANENT WATER SAVING RULES the time of year and whether come on in the middle of restrictions or a heat wave you’ve grouped your plants the night enables you to rolls in, your plants will turn Permanent Water Saving Rules are five common-sense rules that help everyone together according to their water outside the peak up their toes very quickly. By to use water efficiently and avoid waste. They don't affect the use of grey, tank, water needs. It’s actually good demand times when deep watering, but less bore or recycled water. to put off watering as long as others may be hand often, you encourage your The rules apply at all times unless water restrictions are in place. possible. This encourages watering. Just remember plants to send out deeper To find out if there are water restrictions in your town visit: naturally deep-rooted plants not to set and forget. roots to catch the moisture www.coliban.com.au/community/your-town (ie: not vegetables or citrus Watering in the middle of deep in the soil plants) to put their roots down the day can burn plants, • A slow and deep soak deep in search of water. and most of the water will 1. Trigger nozzle – Water at a rate that your be lost in evaporation. • Check your soil – If it’s soil can absorb. If water • Use a leak-free hand-held hose fitted with a trigger Some plants such as hot and dry, don’t just starts to run off, slow nozzle at any time. apple and pear trees can assume your garden needs down and let it sink in. be prone to the fungal watering. There’s a very Every now and then, dig a disease black spot and 2. Watering systems good chance your small hole after watering benefit from morning • Watering systems can be used on residential or excellent mulching is and check how far down watering rather than commercial gardens and lawns any day between paying off and the soil your water has infiltrated. night, as do cucumber, 6pm and 10am. underneath your mulch is still quite moist! Take a zucchini and pumpkin to • Space your watering • A bucket or watering can may be used at any time. handful of soil and roll it avoid powdery mildew. – You can affectively train into a ball in your hand. If your plants to need less HOW TO WATER water. If you gradually 3. Public spaces it holds together, your soil increase the length of is damp enough; if it falls The main aim of watering is • Public gardens, lawns and playing surfaces can be time between watering, apart, it’s time to water. to get water to the part of watered at any time with a hand-held hose, bucket plants will adapt to a Remember to test from the plant that needs it: the or watering can. certain point, and require different sections of your roots. If you make a habit of water less often. Keep an • A watering system fitted with a rain or soil moisture garden. giving your plants a quick eye on water stress sensor can be used any day between 6pm and 10am. sprinkle with the hose every • Check the weather report symptoms. – If your garden is starting day, your plants will send 4. Water features to dry out and you’re their feeder roots searching • Only use fountains or water features that thinking you’ll need to recirculate water. water soon, check the forecast first. With luck, rain may be predicted Understanding water or drought stress in plants 5. Hard surfaces saving you time and Common symptoms include: • Use a high-pressure hose, hand-held hose or bucket water. If a hot, dry day is to water hard surfaces during construction or forecast, water before the • wilting or drooping of leaves and stems; renovations or to remove a hazard. heat hits. • partial fruit, flower or leaf drop from plants; • Hard surfaces can be cleaned once every 3 months • Avoid the midday sun • leaf scorch, yellowing and/or browning on if staining develops. – Water either late at edges; and night or early in the morning. There will be • footprints left behind on a lawn. little evaporation at this time, so the water gets a
44 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE WATER: LIQUID GOLD 45 In some plants the signs of drought stress are only temporary and may just be the plants’ response to hotter weather. For example, some plants droop their leaves on hotter days to conserve moisture. By night time the leaves have often returned to normal. So keep an eye on your plants and give them water if the Keep sprinklers as low as possible symptoms of stress continue for more than a day or so. If certain plants are easily Of course, every hose should water stressed, consider be fitted with a flow shut-off replacing them. device such as a trigger The exception are plants that nozzle. A simple tap-timer need water, such as your will make sure the hose fruits and vegetables. These switches off after a set should not be allowed to period of time. Automatic stress too much, or Diagram of wicking bed controllers can be production will drop and programmed to maximise fruit will split or be distorted. the efficiency of your system.
Remember to change the Over-watering of plants, or Collect rainwater for another source of water; ensure hoses are fitted with Wicking beds are very whole garden. Best to focus a trigger nozzle; watering systems can be used between 6pm and 10am settings as the seasons poor soil drainage that efficient and essentially on a few small areas of your change, as less water is results in roots dying of ‘wet self-watering. You just need garden at one time. Apply needed in autumn, winter feet’, will result in the same to fill up the PVC pipe when water gently until it starts to and spring. symptoms as listed above, so Dripper systems Sprayers and the water level drops. They run off. Move to another area always check the soil to work particularly well as a nearby. After a while return Remember, too, that all Drippers are attached to a sprinklers verify the cause of the stress garden bed for growing and again water to the point automatic watering systems poly pipe that runs around before watering. It is best to use systems that vegetables and herbs. of runoff. Do this several installed from 1 July 2006 the garden under the mulch. deliver large droplets, rather times until you are sure the must have a rain sensor or Water is delivered at a slow Watering systems than the fine spray of Hand-watering water has soaked in deeply. soil moisture sensor as part rate to the roots of plants There are a wide variety of micro-sprays that tends to When hand-watering with a of their control system. Even with no water loss due to irrigation options available. drift. Keep your sprinklers as hose, the trigger nozzle can Controlled watering if your automatic system was wind-drift. Drippers require If you have grouped your low as possible to deliver deliver water gently and in Various types of garden installed before 1 July 2006 much less water pressure plants in water zones water to the rootzone. large droplets to avoid water controllers help take it is easy to have one of than other systems, so larger according to their water wind-drift. Long watering the guesswork out of these devices fitted, and areas can be watered at the Water wicking needs, you may end up using wands are useful in getting watering and can save water they will save you water. one time. A pressure different systems on A wicking bed is a garden the water close to the and money. Water controllers They work by preventing a regulator installed in the different garden beds. For bed with a waterproof lining rootzone. Similarly, use a can be manual, fixed system coming on when main line after the filter will example, hand-watering your that holds a reservoir of rose on a watering can to program or variable program there has been rain, or the prevent dripper blowout. It’s Waterzone 1 plants before a water in a slotted PVC pipe apply water gently. timers. These devices are soil is still moist. For a good idea to install an heatwave and drip-watering at the base. Water is drawn usually available at hardware example, if you have your inline filter to prevent Hand-watering tends to your Waterzone 2 plants upwards through the soil and irrigation outlets. system set to come on every dripper holes blocking up. result in shallow watering if every 2-4 weeks. wicking from the damp soil seven days and the device below to the dry soil above. you are trying to water the
46 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE WATER: LIQUID GOLD 47 detects plenty of soil Greywater moisture or recent rain on day seven, it will tell the Greywater is waste water from controller not to come on for the laundry and bathroom, UNTREATED GREYWATER another seven days. and while it can help your garden survive dry times, it Dos ALTERNATIVE must be used with caution. • Use it immediately – don’t store it. WATER SOURCES There are two types of • Use low phosphorus detergents and soaps. systems to divert greywater • Deliver the greywater by sub-surface In our dry climate it is to your garden; definitely worth considering irrigation. using alternative sources for 1) Diversion devices simply • Ensure greywater goes into the sewer your garden water. While carry greywater from your whenever you are not using it, such as after mains or tap water is subject bathroom (not toilet) or rain. to water restrictions, Most garden rainwater tanks range laundry directly to your alternative sources are not. from 2,000 to 10,000 litres garden without treating it. • Always wash your hands after gardening near This may include a hose, a greywater areas. Rainwater tanks container such as a bucket, or a diverter valve • Only use the greywater in dry times. Collecting rainwater from least one metre from the on your outdoor piping your roof can be an ideal property boundary. A pump Don’ts that allows you to choose water source for your garden. will be needed to move between diverting • Never allow the greywater to leave your If you are planning on water around your garden if greywater to your garden property. growing vegetables and fruit, you are using a hose or or sewer. it is virtually essential that irrigation system. • Never store greywater for more than 24 hours. you have a dedicated 2) Treatment systems • Don’t use greywater on vegetables or anything rainwater tank to provide for Reusing water collect and treat the Class A recycled water is you eat. your thirsty summer produce around the house greywater to various levels once water restrictions produced at the Bendigo • Do not use dishwashing water as it will The water we drain away of purity and hygiene. apply. A key consideration Recycled Water Factory and contain fats and vermin-attracting food when waiting for the hot Treated greywater can be here is how much rain falls delivered through a separate particles. water to reach temperature used in washing machines during a long, hot summer to purple pipe system with its could be a source of water and toilets, as well as on • Don’t water just because you have greywater! refill your tanks when you own meters and connection for your garden. Collect and the garden. Permanent Check that your plants need it. most need it? Can you points. store it in a bucket or basin greywater systems restrict your tank water use Untreated greywater use has the potential to and it use to water pot plants. If your property has recycled require approval from to the peak summer months? water you'll have a separate your local council and increase the salinity of your soil by not only Can you afford water cartage Recycled water water meter, taps and must be installed by a adding salts from the detergents you use, but by fees if you need to fill up raising the water table. This brings natural salts in Recycled water is wastewater plumbing that are all purple licensed plumber. your tanks? your soil to the surface and can have damaging that’s been treated to a high for easy identification. There are limits to what you effects on your soil and plants. It is a good idea to The size of a rainwater tank standard so it can be reused Class B and C recycled water can do with untreated alternate greywater use with tank or tap water will depend on your roof for other purposes. is used to irrigate parks, greywater because of the and also alternate the areas where you apply catchment, local rainfall Class A is the highest class of public gardens, sporting and chemicals and bacteria in it, untreated greywater. patterns and garden area. recycled water and is safe to non-food crops. but treated greywater is Most garden rainwater tanks use for a range of non- somewhat safer to use. range from 2,000 to 10,000 drinking purposes including litres. They need to be garden watering. installed by a licensed Learn more Page 76 plumber on a firm base at
48 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE WATER: LIQUID GOLD 49 Stormwater Landscaping: water can be URBAN SALINITY directed onto your garden Stormwater is a valuable beds and lawn by gently An urban salinity problem water source that can be sloping the surface of has developed due to captured and used by driveways and patios. This excessive garden watering, gardeners. This is basically stormwater flow can be over-fertilising, and the rainwater that runs off across controlled by creating replacement of indigenous hard surfaces into our shallow mounded ditches vegetation with shallow- downpipes, gutters and (swales) with a gentle rooted garden plants and stormwater system. gradient to move water to lawns. Urban salinity occurs Gardeners have a few of certain beds when it rains. when the groundwater level options to consider. rises and the capillary action Paving: if you are laying draws the water to the Downpipe diversion: by pavers consider creating a surface. As the water diverting one or two space between that will evaporates it leaves the salt downpipes around your enable water to seep into behind in the soil. Signs of house you can direct the soil. You can plant small urban salinity include stormwater onto your garden plants like Mondo Grass waterlogged soil, growth of or lawn. A licensed plumber (Ophiopogon japonicus) or salt-tolerant plant species, is required to install a Creeping Thyme (Thymus and unhealthy or dead trees. diverter and hose to your serpyllum) that benefit from Creating a healthy downpipe. Once in place you the water and soften the can open or close a lever on look of a hard-paved surface. Learn more Page 76 the diverter to direct water Alternatively, there are garden into the diverter hose and various porous pavers onto your garden or lawn, or available which allow some How to look out for garden pests to flow as normal through water to seep through into your downpipe and into the the soil or consider gravel as and keep your garden healthy. stormwater system if you do a better alternative to not want to use the water. slowing down the flow.
Learn more Page 76 PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN THE CURE Garden hygiene There are some simple practices you can undertake to ensure your garden is as healthy as possible.
Rainwater tanks need to be checked for blockages and leaks
50 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE CREATING A HEALTHY GARDEN 51 • Space plants out to • Pick up any fallen fruit. • Checking your garden • Trying home remedies ensure good ventilation Don’t leave it to rot on the regularly for signs of such as linseed oil traps to prevent disease. ground. infestations. for earwigs and Portuguese ADD to your compost millipedes, or garlic spray • Make sure your pruning • Avoiding high nitrogen Garden pests for caterpillars, white fly • Fruit and veggie scraps tools are sharp to avoid fertilisers that produce Chewing, sap-sucking and and aphids. tearing stems and soft, sappy growth that • Coffee grounds rasping pests are part and branches. To do so leaves attracts pests. parcel of gardening. We can FEEDING YOUR • Tea bags the plant susceptible to often tolerate a minor • Attracting predatory disease attack. PLANTS • Onion (outer skin) infestation, but need to take animals to your garden. • Use a rag soaked with action if the pest is damaging Not only do birds, bats, Composting • Herbs eucalyptus oil to wipe our plants. It is important to frogs and lizards eat Composting your food scraps, • Leaves down your secateurs correctly identify the pest, its insects, but so do ladybirds, grass and garden clippings • Egg shells (crushed) blades between moving consequences, the severity of praying mantis, spiders can provide your garden with on to each plant. the problem, the possibility and dragonflies. These an excellent source of • Pizza containers (torn up) of natural predators keeping good guys are attracted to • Prune back any dead or nutrients. There are a lot of the pest under control, and plants such as alyssum, • Egg cartons damaged parts of your systems available that range control techniques you can marigolds, cosmos, parsley, plants as soon as you from compost bins, compost • Vacuum cleaner dust put into place. coriander and dill. heaps, worm farms and notice a problem. • Finely chopped citrus peel (not too much) Actions that will help minimise • Removing pests by hand kitchen fermentation kits. It • If you are treating a plant pest problems include; if possible e.g. caterpillars all depends on the size of • Grass cuttings (thin layers 3-4cm) for a disease, make sure and snails. your property, the size of • Chopped prunings you collect any fallen your garden and the amount leaves and put them in • Spraying with botanical of scraps you produce. • Weeds (not bulbs or seed heads) the rubbish bin. Do not oils or natural soaps. compost them. • Shredded newspaper Learn more Page 76 KEEP OUT of your compost • Meat and fish scraps (attract vermin) QUEENSLAND FRUIT FLY • Dairy (attract vermin) Queensland fruit fly (QFF) populations have unfortunately • Office paper (bleached or glossy) been identified in the Coliban Water region. QFF attacks a • Weed seeds and bulbs wide range of fruits and vegetables. If left uncontrolled QFF can lead to significant crop losses for the home • Pet poo (can be a health risk) gardener and local agricultural industries. • Large tree branches (unless you’ve put them Agriculture Victoria provides extensive information through a chipper) about the identification and management of this pest. • Citrus fruit (too acidic in large quantities) A brochure for home gardeners is available on their website. • Diseased plants and fruit (spreads disease) The Prevent Fruit Fly website also provides advice for home gardeners and commercial producers.
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52 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE CREATING A HEALTHY GARDEN 53 FERTILISER If your plants are showing signs of a nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves, you may wish to consider a supplementary fertiliser. Some plants are heavy feeders, such as citrus, so will require additional food to keep productive. When feeding plants with fertilisers, follow instructions carefully, and do not overdo it, otherwise you may kill your plants with kindness! Choose an organic liquid fertiliser such as worm tea, seaweed solution or fish emulsions and feed the roots Planting of your plant, not the leaves. You can also make your own The key to planting is putting it in organic fertiliser by soaking the ground with care and love. aged animal manure, Composting food scraps, clippings, comfrey leaves or garden grass and leaves provides an excellent source of nutrients weeds in a covered bucket of water for four or five weeks. Strain and use the liquid to make your fertiliser tea. Dilute to approximately one-part bucket liquid to You can plant into your In theory, your new plants ten-parts water. It should garden with seeds, cuttings or get a chance to establish look like weak tea. potted plants of various ages. before winter and then In general, buying younger flourish as the weather Avoid synthetic fertilisers, stock in tubes (tubestock) or warms up in spring to cope these often have synthetic small pots enables strong with the summer heat. Many nitrogen, heavy metals and root development at an early natives are best planted in the salt content can burn age which is ideal for deep winter, while deciduous young plants. root development (and your plants such as roses, fruit wallet). trees and ornamental trees are best planted bare-rooted Traditionally, after the first in winter, and they’ll be heavy autumn rain is the cheaper! For frost-prone best time to put indigenous areas, spring may be a better plants in the ground, time to plant out. particularly for dry areas.
54 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANTING 55 As gardeners, you would be PLANT We’ve all done it and it does • any preference for flower aware that traditional rainfall take some research to get it colour, eg: pink flowers patterns are changing and, in SELECTION right. Which brings us back • any functional aspects, particular, the autumn, winter to our garden plan. The right plant for eg: screening plant, hedge and spring rains seem to have Try tackling one garden bed or shade tree declined. If you are planning the right spot at a time to either plant out to plant out, consider It is so tempting when you if it’s new, or enrichment PLANT GROUPS consulting one of the many see a gorgeous plant at a planting if there are some long-range weather websites nursery and think "that will The following groups of gaps or tired looking plants. to optimise the success of look fantastic outside the plants are all ideal for a dry Write down information your plantings. Ensuring there lounge window". The plant climate. You can create a about the bed such as: is a good level of soil moisture requires sandy soil, lots of garden of any style using present before you plant water and shade… outside • Sunlight requirements just one group, for example greatly increases the likelihood your window you have clay (full sun, part-sun, shade) indigenous plants, or you that your valuable plants will soil and full sun. Dig a hole can mix and match selecting • Soil type (sand, loam or successfully establish. and throw your wallet in! plants with similar soil and clay) water requirements across • Waterzone (1, 2 or 3) the plant groups. The next step is to develop a One important factor to list of plants that are right for remember relates to nutrient Planting out that spot. You will find needs. Indigenous plants
1. Soak your plants in a bucket of water prior to nursery staff are very and many native plants have Consider the height, colour, texture and functional aspect of plants before planting. knowledgeable and helpful evolved to cope with you put them in the ground in this regard and you will Australia’s ancient soils that 2. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and make it easier for them to are generally low in slightly deeper. help if you can say, "show nutrients, particularly their survival. Our region has and climate. Examples 3. Fill the hole with water and allow it to drain me a range of plants that phosphorous. Adding a a fantastic range of include bottlebrushes before planting. grow in full sun, clay soil and commercial fertiliser that is indigenous plants of various (Callistemon spp.), banksias have low water needs". high in phosphorous can 4. Hold the pot upside down and gently tap the colours, textures and sizes. (Banksia spp.), grevilleas damage your indigenous and plant out of the pot. Or you can do your own (Grevillea spp.), hakeas native plants. If you are Find out more about how research using websites, (Hakea spp.), mint bushes 5. Trim any particularly long or coiled roots and mixing plant groups within a indigenous plants were library books on garden (Prostanthera spp.), emu give your roots a tickle to tease out the roots. garden bed to include harvested for food, fibre and plants or wander around bushes (Eremophila spp.), indigenous, native and medicine in our Traditional 6. Place the plant in the hole slightly lower than your neighbourhood and see native fuchsias (Correa spp.), non-native plants, keep up lands section on page 05. the surface level. what plants are thriving. Swan River Daisy the compost rather than (Brachyscome iberidifolia), 7. Firmly replace the soil around the plant. In addition, you may want to applying commercial Native plants waxflowers (Philotheca spp.), add any design information fertiliser. Plants that come from 8. Fashion a circle of raised soil to form a wattles (Acacia spp.) and about the type of plant you anywhere in Australia are watering basin around the plant. gum trees (Eucalyptus spp.). would like for a particular Indigenous plants referred to as native plants. 9. Water the plant in well. spot or garden bed such as: The original plants that grow It may be a wattle from NSW Exotic plants locally in your area are or a grevillea from WA. Many All plants, regardless of how drought-tolerant • height of plants, eg: Refers to any plant that known as indigenous plants. native plants are adapted to they are when mature, will require a good border plant to 30cm or originates from outside of They are adapted to grow in dry conditions and those soaking once a week when establishing. feature tree to 6m Australia. They can represent your soil type and local sold in nurseries are often a range of plants from the • colour or texture of climate. Local wildlife often adaptable to your local soil groups on the next page. foliage, eg: grey succulent depend on these plants for or green strappy tussock
56 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANTING 57 SUCCULENTS TRIED AND TRUE march across the countryside! Think Gazania (Gazania AND FOLIAGE FAVOURITES linearis), Pampus Grass PLANTS Many of these plants survive (Cortaderia selloana), English Ivy (hedera helix) and Freesia Many of these plants look with little or no care and can (Freesia alba x Freesia fantastic in a garden from a be spotted growing around leichtlinii) to name a few. texture and interest point of old cemeteries. Examples view. They include a huge include old-fashioned roses; Environmental weeds in the range of succulents, bulbs such as lilies, iris, bush out-compete ornamental grasses and daffodils and jonquils; English indigenous plants for light, other foliage plants. Box (Buxus sempervirens); water and nutrients. In a Examples include agaves Native Fuchsia (Correa reflexa) short time, they can replace (Agave spp.), Bird of Paradise and wattles (Acacia spp.). indigenous plants, (Strelitzia reginae), Cabbage effectively removing the Palms (Cordyline spp.), New PRODUCE food source and habitat of Zealand flax (Phormium spp.), PLANTS local animals. They can also yuccas (Yucca spp.) as well as form a serious threat to Growing your own herbs, indigenous plants such as farmers as they impact vegetables and fruit is Soft Spear-grass (Austrostipa productivity of crops and rewarding, especially with mollis), Flax lilies (Dianella pastures, and cost time and Plant guide regard to cost and taste. spp.) and Blue Devil money to control. Most produce plants are (Eryngium ovinum). shallow-rooted and high in Seeds and cuttings can be Our lists of some of the plants that Grey-leaf plants water demand and fertiliser. carried many kilometres by In a dry climate consider wind, water, tools, vehicles, perform well in a dry climate. Silver and grey foliage plants focusing on your winter crop, clothing, pets, birds, and provide great contrast in using a dedicated rainwater animals. Plants can also colour and texture and they tank, wicking beds, mulch spread from people dumping are tough! Examples include well with pea straw and only garden waste in reserves and DEFINITIONS lavenders (Lavendula spp.), grow the amount you will waterways. wormwoods (Artemisia spp.), Traditional land plants Water consume. Some produce Lambs Ears (Stachys byzantina), You can help by finding out plants such as rosemary and Plants used by First Nations Watering needs if it hasn’t Emu Bush (Eremophila spp.), what plants are a problem in thyme require less water people for food, fibre and been raining. Silverbush (Convolvulus your area and not growing medicine than most once established. Sun cneorum), Panda Plant them in your garden, and by additional watering Indigenous plants not required once (Kalanchoe tomentosa), as composting your garden Sun/shade ENVIRONMENTAL established. well as indigenous plants waste whenever possible or Plants that grow locally in WEEDS Shade such as White Correa (Correa dispose of it through your our region water once a month. alba), Cushion Bush When a plant invades and council waste collection Frost tolerant Native plants water twice a month. (Leucophyta brownii), Ruby thrives in an area where they program. Saltbush (Enchylaena Moderately frost do not naturally occur they Your local council may have Plants that come from A well-drained soil refers tomentosa), Drumsticks tolerant are known as an information relevant to your anywhere in Australia to any soil type that allows (Pycnosorus globosus), environmental weed. They area. See our Region focus water to freely move Frost sensitive, needs Common Everlasting Exotic plants can be from overseas or they section on page 09. through it. protection from winter (Chrysocephalum apiculatum) can be a native plant from Plants that originate from frosts. and Lemon Beauty-heads interstate. Unfortunately, outside of Australia (Calocephalus citreus). many a garden plant has Learn more Page 76 escaped and begun a slow Please note: Plant sizes are approximate. Environmental conditions will influence the final height and width of a plant. Flowering times are approximate as climate change is tending to cause earlier flowering in some species.
58 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 59 TRADITIONAL LANDS – FOOD Sweet Apple-berry A sprawling ground cover or can grow as a Billardiera cymosa climber that can reach three metres across and Including plant names in the Dja Dja Wurrung language stretch up to 1.5m in height. The Apple-berry has Dhurrungmil wawitj bell-shaped flowers which will appear during . Indigenous spring and summer and in summer features an oblong berry, 2cm long. The fleshy green and Chocolate Lily The Chocolate Lily’s bright purple flowers smell purple fruit turns yellow when ripe and the fruit Arthropodium strictum like chocolate. This plant will self-sow, tolerate may be eaten raw when it has fallen to the most soil types and requires minimal watering. ground or roasted if still green. The skin is hairy Gitjawil matom After flowering in summer, the plant will die and like a peach and the sweet astringent Indigenous down to its rootstock and wait for the next spring flavour like a kiwifruit. season to begin flowering again. This is when the edible root tubers form at the ends of the roots, Inland Pigface A succulent-type plant that grows naturally in with each plant containing many edible root Carpobrotus modestus the Bendigo region. Because of its soft foliage it tubers that can be eaten raw or roasted. is trampled and eaten by grazing animals such as Djaa wawitj sheep and cattle and only regenerates in areas Vanilla Lily The Vanilla Lily is named because of the slight Indigenous excluded from grazing. Ideal for low maintenance Arthropodium vanilla scent its flowers emit. It is in the same gardens and will spread like other ground cover milleflorum family as the Chocolate Lily and consumed in succulents. Produces large pink-purple daisy-like the same way with the addition of the flowers flowers over summer but is also known to flower Gitjawil matom being edible. The tuberous fruits develop in sporadically throughout the year. The fruit is red Indigenous December to March. It is a frost tolerant plant when ripe and has a salty taste as do the leaves; that requires little watering but will prefer a for this reason, it is used like Ruby Saltbush and slighter moister climate than the Chocolate Lily added to meats for salting or consumed on its can survive in. own. The sap that excretes from the leaves is used as an eye cleanser. Yam Daisy Murnong was once the most abundant food Microseris lanceolata source for Djaara, but since being eaten from Kangaroo Grass A tufted perennial grass that can grow to 1.5m tall existence and trampled upon by the hard hooves Themada triandra and 0.5m across. Its leaves are green to grey in Murnong of sheep it is now extremely rare to see. Journals colour drying to an orange brown in the heat of Indigenous of early explorers and colonisers detail yellow Buwatj summer. Flowers in December through to flowers filling the valley fields as far as the eye Indigenous February but will remain on the plant long after can see, as if they were being farmed this period. It produces distinct large red-brown commercially. The roots contained tubers which spikelets, which occur on branched stems. were dug up by women using digging sticks and Kangaroo Grass is gathered in large quantities in then roasted on hot ashes and consumed. wooden bowls. The seeds are separated and grinding stones are used to grind flour which Ruby Saltbush A dry-country ground-cover plant with small was mixed with water and cooked to make Enchylaena tomentosa edible red, yellow, orange fruits which are damper. Unfortunately, Kangaroo Grass responds shaken off into a coolamon and collected for to regular burning and suffers from over-grazing, Girrkitj eating; in some instances, the salty fruits can so it is no longer abundant in the area like it Indigenous also be added to meat for seasoning. Flowers once was. from spring to early summer and is followed by the display of many small berries, which can be multiple colours. Ruby Saltbush is salt, drought and frost tolerant, but will not survive in waterlogged or consistently moist soils.
60 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 61 TRADITIONAL LANDS – FIBRE TRADITIONAL LANDS – MEDICINE
Spiny-headed Mat-Rush Spiny Headed Mat-rush is an extremely Silver Banksia A well-known Australian plant that once thrived Lomandra longifolia adaptable sedgy Indigenous plant which can Banksia marginata across Victoria. It can grow anywhere between survive both long periods of drought and 1-12m in height and will attract honey-eating Witji extended periods of wet. It is often planted near Wurrak birds. The Silver Banksia can tolerate most soil Indigenous riverways and watercourses for this reason but Indigenous types, but preferably dry, and in full view of the will not die even if it is refused water; once its sun. The flower cones of all species of Banksias long roots have become established in the soil. can be soaked in water to make teas from the The smell of the flowers, which occur over nectar. The dry cones of the Silver Banksia can spring-summer, can attract pollinating and native be used as strainers and to carry a smouldering bees to your garden. Like other sedges, it is fire. Single flowers are also used as fine tip like prized for its basket weaving, trapping, mats, and paint brushes. sewing qualities obtained from the leaves. This species of Banksia needs fire to germinate seeds in the soil bank and may be the reason why Carex Sedge Another sedge plant with course edges that will it is no longer seen in all locations of the state. Carex appressa slice the hand if ran along the blade of the leaf. Typically planted around wetlands, rivers, Drooping Sheoak The Drooping Sheoak is a medium sized tree (up Witji watercourses and dams. It prefers loamy soil and to 10m) and resembles a weeping pine tree. This will normally grow 1m x 1m, and, like other sedges Allocasuarina Indigenous tree will grow in a range of different soil flowers over spring-summer. Still commonly verticillata conditions and will tolerate most climates once used by Djaara women for basket weaving and Ngarri established. The soft young cones are eaten, crafting bags. Carex has also been known to be mature cones are crushed into a powder for made into a cape and worn to cure toothache. Indigenous sores and chronic pains like arthritis; parts of the bark and wood can also be used medicinally. The Spreading Flax Lily Known to occur in dry, heathy woodlands and wood from Sheoaks is prized for making Dianella revoluta can survive an array of different climatic conditions boomerangs, spears, and other tools. including fire, drought, frost and water logging. Dhurrung wurrkuk Grows beautiful purple flowers with yellow Grass Tree An incredibly long-lasting plant (600 years) but filaments which are soon followed by small Indigenous grows at an extremely slow rate of 2-3cm every purple berries. Although the berries on most Xanthorrhoea australis year. Typically lives in moist valleys but if grown species are edible, there is no evidence to suggest Bakap in pots and in the same climate as it will be that Djaara ate them. The leaves are split and planted, it can thrive. An attractive plant with then twisted together to make a strong cord Indigenous many uses. Grass Trees produce nectar that is fibre, and larger species were weaved into baskets. collected using a sponge; the sponge is typically made from Stringybark. The stalks from old Pale Rush A dense tufted perennial rush that spreads from flowers and fruits is used as tinder in making fire. Juncus pallidus underground stems. Erect bluish green to dull The heart of the stem is edible. The soft wood green stems that are rounded. Like most other provides the base for a fire-drill in making fire. Witji species of rushes, needs to be planted close to The soft bases of the young leaves were sweet Indigenous water and prefers waterlogged soils. The stems of and have a nutty flavour. Tough leaves can be this and other strong rushes are used for string and used as knives to cut meat. Globules of hard, to weave baskets and mats. waterproof resin from the base of each leaf are collected and used as glue to fasten barbs in spears or stone axes to handles. The Grass Tree has many more uses; and like other Australian species that have adapted to generations of Aboriginal burning practices, responds very well to fire sweeping through the forest it inhabits.
62 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 63 Sticky Hop Bush Widely distributed medium shrub (2-3m) across TREES (over 10m) Dodonaea viscosa all states of Australia. Will tolerate long periods of drought and requires very little watering Tall trees create shade which lowers temperatures and moderates the micro-climate. Mayn-mayn durrung making it the perfect candidate for a dry climate. Ironbarks produce more shade than a lot of other gums as they generally have denser canopies. Indigenous The juice of the root was applied to cuts and to gums for toothaches. Silver Wattle An easily grown tree with attractive bluish-green Acacia dealbata leaves and a profusion of yellow flowers through winter and spring to brighten up your garden. ACACIA SPECIES Indigenous Fast-growing, reaching a height of 6-30m and Golden Wattle Wattles are still commonplace in Victoria and width of 5-10m. Grows best in all deep soils.
Acacia pycnantha different species can be used for different practices. Golden and Silver Wattles produce an Wai Wai edible gum, and the bark is often deliberately White Cypress-pine A slender, conifer-like tree with a single straight picked so the tree will produce more gum to trunk. Bluish foliage and small woody cones. heal itself; continuing the supply. The bark is Callitris columellaris soaked in hot water as a medicine for Indigenous A slow-growing tree reaching a height of 7-20m and width of 5-10m. Useful as a shade tree or Silver Wattle indigestion, but it can also be used to make coarse string. Dry Wattle seeds are ground up to can be grown in a container. Grows best in sandy Acacia dealbata make damper; they are rich in protein, similar to soils. Wararak beans and peas. Not every species of wattle is suitable for food though and the correct Lemon-scented Gum Beautiful smooth, pink bark and weeping research should be attained before consuming. Corymbia citriodora lemon-scented foliage. Cream flowers in winter. Grows tall to 20-40m and 6-10m wide. Grows Native well on a wide variety of well-drained soils. A Blackwood stunning feature tree for a large garden area.
Acacia melanoxylon Mutjang Algerian Oak A large evergreen tree that is semi-deciduous in Quercus canariensis cooler climates. A slow-growing tree reaching a height of 20m and width of 15m. Grows well in Exotic most soil types. An excellent summer shade tree Lightwood for the garden.
Acacia implexa Mutjang Chinese Elm A long-lived deciduous tree with a broad canopy. Ulmus parvifolia The bark is orange-brown and finely flaking. Exotic Grows 6-12m high and 5-8m wide. Grows in Spreading Wattle most soil types. An excellent shade tree.
Acacia genistifolia Werp yulanyuk Cimmaron Ash An excellent shade and feature tree which is Fraxinus pennsylvanica adaptable to a range of soil types. Can tolerate periods of drought as long as it receives some ‘Cimmaron’ regular water. Indigenous Exotic Deciduous with brilliant autumn leaf colour, it develops a rounded form when mature and grows to 15m high and 8m wide.
64 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 65 Turkey Oak A hardy deciduous tree with bright yellow Heath Banksia One of the most beautiful banksias with striking Quercus cerris autumn foliage. It has a slow to moderate growth Banksia ericifolia orange flower cones from autumn to winter. A rate and grows to approximately 15m high. fast-growing plant with fine green leaves. Grows Exotic Native to 7m high and 4m wide. Tolerates most well- Turkey Oak will adapt to a wide range of soils drained soils, particularly sand. An excellent and is drought tolerate. It is a wonderful shade feature plant in the garden. tree once established.
Weeping Bottlebrush A fast-growing small tree with beautiful red Kurrajong A very hardy evergreen tree with attractive Callistemon viminalis spikes of flowers through summer. Variable forms Brachychiton creamy white flowers in spring – summer. It is of this plant but generally grows to 4m high and Native populneus adaptable to a wide range of soil types but wide. Tolerates most soil types and may need requires good drainage. some frost protection when young. Native It makes an attractive feature tree which provides good shade and is drought resistant. Crimson Mallee A beautiful small gum tree with interesting bark and Eucalyptus a striking display of deep pink to red flowers in White Cedar A fast growing deciduous native to lansdowneana winter and spring. Grows to 6m high and 4m wide. Melia azedarach approximately 10m high and 8m wide. An Very hardy tolerating most soil types. An excellent excellent shade tree, White Cedar has fragrant Native feature tree in the garden. Native lilac flowers during spring followed by masses of In the depths of winter this plant produces hard yellow fruit. eye-catching, cream tassel flowers that contrast It is a highly adaptable tree, tolerating extended with its grey-green evergreen foliage. Grows to periods of drought and growing in a wide range 8m high and 3m wide as a shrub or pruned to a of soil types. tree. Tolerant of most well-drained soils.
The yellow fruits are poisonous to humans and Crepe Myrtle A beautiful deciduous tree with pink flowers in the tree can be weedy in some areas of Australia. Lagerstroemia indica summer, autumn foliage and attractive bark. Grows to 3-4m high and wide. Cheapest to buy as TREES (under 10m) Exotic a bare-rooted plant in winter. Get them established with plenty of water, to ensure the root system develops well. Hardy once established. Tolerant Lightwood An attractive, long-lived tree with interesting of most well-drained soils. Acacia implexa twisted seed pods. Perfumed cream flowers from summer through autumn. Grows to 10m high Pomegranate A deciduous tree with small, orange flowers in Indigenous and 4m wide. An adaptable plant tolerating a summer, followed by stunning red edible fruit range of soil types including clay. Punica granatum provided you water well in spring. Leaves change Exotic from green to red in autumn. Grows to 5m high and 4m wide. Tolerates all well-drained soils;
Weeping Myrtle A graceful tree with weeping branches and long does not like wet feet! Agonis flexuosa narrow leaves. New tips are bronze. Fragrant, small white flowers through spring and summer. Ornamental (Callery) Pear An attractive narrow tree that is hardy and easy to Native Grows to a high of 10m and width of 5m. Pyrus calleryana grow. An excellent screening plant when grown in Tolerant of most soil types, particularly sand. a row. Autumn foliage and white flowers in spring. ‘Capital’ Grows to 6-7m high and 2m wide. Tolerates all Exotic soil types. Drooping Sheoak Rounded, drooping canopy of greyish-green
Allocasuarina branchlets. Small, yellow flowers in winter and verticillata spring provide an attracting golden effect. Grows Golden Robinia Deciduous tree with striking lime green leaves to 10m high and 6m wide. Grows in a wide range that change to yellow in autumn. Grows to 10m Indigenous Robinia ‘Frisia’ of soil types. high and 5m wide. Long white, fragrant flowers in Exotic summer. Tolerates most well-drained soils. An attractive feature tree for its foliage or shade tree for dappled light.
66 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 67 TALL SHRUBS (under 3m) Silky Eremophila A stunning evergreen plant with silvery foliage Eromophila nivea that stands out on the garden. This contrasts beautifully with its purple flowers in spring. Gold-dust Wattle An open, fine-leafed shrub with a profusion of Native Grows to 2m high and wide. Grows well in Acacia acinacea yellow flowers in spring. Grows to 2m high and containers. Performs best in sandy soils. wide. Benefits from pruning after flowering and Indigenous makes a good, low screening plant. Adaptable to all well-drained soils. Wulfen Spurge A stunning, unusual plant that is tough. Upright, Euphorbia characias blue-green evergreen foliage, with lime green puff-balls of flowers from spring to summer. Sticky Boronia A fast-growing shrub with strongly scented Exotic Grows to 1.5m high and wide. Tolerates all Boronia anemonifolia leaves. A profusion of star-shaped pink flowers well-drained soils. in spring and summer this plant is an eye- Indigenous catching addition to your garden. Grows to 2m high and wide. Performs best in sandy soil or a Austral Indigo A lovely ornamental shrub for the garden. great container plant. Indigophora Australia Feathery blue-green evergreen foliage can be pruned to create a more compact shrub. Beautiful Sweet Bursaria This easily-grown plant is attractive in flower and Indigenous sprays of mauve-purple pea flowers in spring. Bursaria spinosa fruit. Variable form from a rounded shrub to Grows to 2m high and wide. Adaptable to any small tree. Grows 2-6m high and 2-3m wide. well-drained soil. Indigenous Masses of fragrant, white flowers in summer that attract butterflies. Suits all well-drained soils. SMALL SHRUBS (under 1m)
Silky Net-bush Bright red flowers in spring and summer attract Woolly Wattle A hardy, rounded shrub that can grow to 2m high the nectar feeding birds. An evergreen shrub Calothamnus villosus and wide. Showy in flower during winter with with pine-like foliage. Grows to 2m high and Acacia lanigera masses of bright yellow ball-like flowers. Grows Native wide. Makes a good screening plant. Tolerant of Indigenous well under established trees and is an excellent a wide range of soils, but loves sandy soil. soil binder. Prefers well-drained clay soils.
Blue Pacific A hardy and fast-growing evergreen shrub. Small Crowea A compact shrub with attractive burgundy foliage Eye-catching display of deep blue flowers in spring. Ceanothus ‘Blue Pacific’ and long-lasting pink star flowers through spring Grows to 3m high and 2m wide. Can be clipped Crowea exalata and summer. Grows to 1m high and wide. Exotic to a hedge, or create a spring splash of colour in Indigenous Tolerates all well-drained soils and grows well in the garden. Tolerates most well-drained soils. containers.
Geraldton Wax A profusion of long-lasting pink flowers in winter Grey Parrot-pea An attractive and adaptable plant for a shady and spring make this a favourite of the cut- Chamaelaucium position. Small yellow and red pea flowers flower industry. A dense evergreen shrub that Dillwynia cinerascens uncinatum clustered on the ends of the branches in spring. grows to 3m high and wide make this an Indigenous Grows to 1m high and wide. Prune to keep Native excellent screen plant or feature plant. Performs compact. Attractive effect mass planted. Prefers best in sandy soils. well-drained soils.
Mexican Orange Blossom A very attractive, easy to grow, evergreen shrub English Lavender Purple fragrant flowers summer and autumn. with fragrant foliage and flowers. Beautiful Choisya Ternata Grows to 1m high and wide. Grey-green leaves citrus-like white flowers in spring. Grows to 2m Lavandula angustifolia also aromatic when brushed against or crushed. Exotic high and wide. Can be pruned to hedge or a Exotic Prune after flowering to keep compact. Tolerates feature plant in your garden. Grows in all most soils, but prefers sand. well-drained soils.
68 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 69 Cushion Bush An unusual, densely tangled, round shrub with ROSES (Hardy varieties) Leucophyta brownii greyish-white foliage. Grows to 1m high and 2m wide. Responds well to pruning. Small, yellow Native flowerheads in summer. Tolerates most well- Persian Rose A golden-yellow, double flower in spring and drained soils. Rosa foetida ‘Persiana’ summer with a strong fragrance. Grows to 1.2m high and wide. Prefers sandy loam and clay loam Exotic soils. Dwarf Sacred Bamboo A low, rounded evergreen shrub with bright red Nandina domestica new growth from spring to summer. Grows to 60cm high and wide. Small white flowers in ‘Nana’ autumn and winter. Tolerates most well-drained Lorraine Lee One of the most famous Australian roses with Exotic soils. A hardy plant that also performs well in Rosa ‘Lorraine Lee’ pink flowers all year, with a flush in winter. Strong containers. fragrance. A vigorous shrub that grows to 2m high Exotic and wide. There is also a climbing form. Adapts to most well-drained soils. Large, sharp thorns so Grey Everlasting Beautiful clusters of yellow flowers in spring that keep it away from paths. Ozothamnus can be used as cut flowers. Small dark green obcordatus leaves woolly underneath. Grows to 1m high and 50cm wide. Responds well to tip pruning. Madame Hardy Clusters of brilliant white and strongly fragrant Indigenous An excellent plant for shallow stony soils. Rosa ‘Madame Hardy’ flowers in spring. A hardy rose with bushy growth to 1.5m high and wide. Adapts to all well-drained Exotic soils. Scarlet Mint-bush A low growing shrub with aromatic foliage and a Prostanthera profusion of 2cm long red flowers in spring and aspalathoides summer. Grows to 50cm high and wide and responds well to tip pruning to keep it compact. Moyesii Striking open red flowers with a yellow centre Indigenous Grows in a most well-drained soils. Rosa ‘Moyesii’ bloom in spring. Showy red fruit (hips) also popular in floral arrangements. A large, vigorous Exotic shrub that grows to 2m high and wide. Strong arching growth. Well-drained soils. Mexican Sage A fast-growing, hardy shrub with attractive Salvia leucantha evergreen grey-green leaves. Spikes of deep mauve flowers over summer and autumn. Exotic Requires more watering in late summer into Peace Rose Beautiful, large, fragrant pink and yellow blooms autumn. Grows to 1m high and wide. Adapts to Rosa ‘Peace’ from spring through to autumn. Vigorous upright most soil types. Suited to garden beds, borders or shrub that grows to 2m high and 1m wide. Glossy containers and an excellent cut flower. Exotic deep green leaves. All well-drained soils. Stunning when mass planted or as a feature plant.
Lavender Cotton A beautiful evergreen, aromatic shrub noted for Santolina its silver-grey foliage and small, button-like chamaecyparissus yellow flowers in spring and summer. Typically grows in dense mounds to 60cm high and 90cm Exotic wide. Can be pruned to hedge. Adapts to all well-drained soils; does not like wet feet!
70 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 71 PERENNIALS, BULBS, GRASSES AND TUFTED PLANTS Daffodils Strappy green foliage grows to 30cm high and Narcissus cultivars 10cm wide from a bulb. Beautiful, golden flowers in spring to brighten up the garden or a vase Oyster Plant A fast-growing, hardy evergreen plant that Exotic inside. Wide range of varieties. Adaptable to Acanthus mollis features glossy, dark green foliage. Beautiful tall well-drained soils. Easy to grow and long-lived. flower spikes of purple and white that rise above Exotic the foliage in summer. Grows to 1m high and wide. Adaptable to most well-drained soils. Bird of Paradise A dense clumping plant with broad green leaves. Strelitzia reginae Striking orange and blue bird-like flowers in summer. Grows to 1m high and wide. Adapts to Agave Soft, fleshy succulent-like leaves form in a rosette Exotic most well-drained soils. Does not like wet feet. Agave attenuata to 1m high and wide. Green to bluish-green Great in the garden or as cut flowers. leaves. In summer yellowish-green flowers appear Exotic on tall arching spikes, although it can take 10 years for the blooms to appear. Grows in all Sticky Everlasting Showy, bright-yellow papery daisy flowers in well-drained soils. Xerochrysum viscosum spring to autumn. Sticky branches with dark green narrow leaves. Grows to 70cm tall and 30cm wide. Feather Spear-grass A perennial tussocky grass that grows to 50cm high Indigenous Pruning after flowering promotes a bushy form Austrostipa and 1m wide. Beautiful feathery flowerheads on and prolongs life. Suited to all well-drained soils. stems to 1m high in spring and summer. A striking elegantissima contrast plant when in flower. Adapts to most soils. Indigenous CLIMBERS
Cut-leaf Daisy Fast-growing, spreading groundcover. Grows to Bougainvillea An evergreen climbing shrub with thorny stems. Brachyschome 10cm high and 50cm wide. Attractive mauve or Bougainvillea glabra Grows to 4m high. Mass of bright purple flowers white daisy-like flowers with a yellow centre in summer and autumn. Protect from heavy frosts. multifida throughout the year. Hardy and adaptable to a Exotic An exposed sunny spot is ideal. Adapts to most Indigenous range of soil types. Responds well to hard pruning well-drained soils. after flowering.
Common Everlasting Attractive soft grey leaves with clusters of bright Small-leaved Clematis An attractive, fine-leaved climber with masses of Chrysocephalum yellow flowers above the foliage in spring and Clematis microphylla starry cream flowers from winter to spring. Fluffy summer. Grows to 20cm high and 70cm wide. white seedheads in summer are also attractive. apiculatum Adapts to most well-drained soils. Responds well Exotic Grows to 3m high and can be trained to cover a Indigenous to pruning. An excellent contrast or rockery plant. fence or trellis. Adapts to all soils, but does not like wet feet.
Round-leaved Cotyledon Fleshy, grey-green leaves with red margins Purple Coral-pea A hardy, scrambling climber or groundcover. Masses of purple pea flowers in late winter- Cotyledon orbiculata around 10cm across. Plant grows to 50cm high Hardenbergia violacea and wide. Cluster of bell-shaped orange flowers spring. Leathery dark green leaves. Adapts to a Exotic droop from a 50cm flower stalk in summer. Indigenous range of well-drained soils but prefers clay. Can Adaptable to most well-drained soils. be trained to cover a fence. Attractive groundcover in the garden or in a hanging basket or container. Black-anther Flax-lily A rounded tussock with strappy green leaves. Black Coral-pea A vigorous climber or groundcover with unusual Grows to 80cm high and 1m wide. Beautiful starry Dianella admixta black and yellow pea flowers. Large green leaves. blue flowers on 1m tall stems in spring, followed Kennedia nigricans Grows to 10m high and wide so plant away from Indigenous by blue oval-shaped fruit to 1cm long in summer. Native other plants it may smoother, or train along a Adapts to most well-drained soils. fence or embankment. All soils.
72 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 73 Banksia Rose A vigorous climbing rose covered in small, yellow, HARDY LAWNS Rosa banksia ‘Lutea’ lightly-scented flowers in spring. Thornless stems grow to 5-10m and is an excellent choice to cover Exotic arbors and fences. Adapts to most well-drained Santa Ana Couch A fine leaf couch. Extremely tough and hard soils. Cynodon dactylon wearing. A running grass that self-repairs wear and tear, but can also be invasive. Dormant in ‘Santa Ana’ winter. Exotic GROUNDCOVERS
Blue Chalk Sticks A spreading succulent with silvery-blue finger-like, TifTuf Couch A large number of underground runners helps Kleinia mandraliscae fleshy leaves and small white flowers in summer. Cynodon dactylon cope with water restrictions and regrowth after Grows to 30cm high and 60cm wide. A fast-growing summer. Will brown off during winter. Copes well ‘TifTuf’ Exotic groundcover that is easily propagated from with wear and tear. cuttings. Suits most well-drained soils, especially Exotic sandy soil.
Gaudi Chaudi Grevillea Large red toothbrush-like flowers in spring and Weeping Grass A great lawn alternative as this fine native grass Grevillea x gaudichaudii summer. Dark green leaves have a bronze tinge Microlaena stipoides can be mowed and self seeds. Excellent as a front on new growth. Grows to 30cm high and 3m wide. lawn as it does not cope well with heavy traffic or Native Fast-growing and hardy. Adapts to well-drained Indigenous dog urine. Grows well in shade soils. Excellent underneath trees or spilling over a retaining wall.
Running Postman Brilliant red pea flowers with a yellow centre Kikuyu Kikuyu is a hardy running grass that loves the full Kennedia prostrata bloom in spring to add a splash of colour to the Pennisetum sun and thrives in summer. It doesn’t perform so garden. Soft, grey-green leaves on training stems clandestrnum well in shady areas. Yellows off in winter. It’s Indigenous that grow to 2m. Prefers well drained soils, but fast-growing nature is great for self-repair but will tolerate some limited waterlogging. Exotic also means it requires frequent mowing and can
be invasive.
Creeping Boobialla A dense matting groundcover that grows to 10cm Sir Walter Buffalo Grass A hardy grass that is soft and lush if maintained Myoporum prostrata high and 2-4m wide. Masses of star-like white Stenotaphrum correctly. The largest of the running grasses it flowers in spring and summer. Fast-growing and tends to self-repair patches from wear and tear. secundatum ‘Sir Walter’ Indigenous hardy it grows in all well-drained soils. An Browns off in winter. excellent lawn alternative. Exotic
Matted Bush-pea Densely matting, layering groundcover with Pultenaea pendenculata masses of small red and yellow pea flowers in spring. Small dark green leaves. Grows up to 3m. Indigenous Looks great cascading over rockeries or retaining walls. Adapts to all well-drained soils.
74 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE PLANT GUIDE 75 The Waterwise Australian Wildlife of the Box – Ironbark PUBLICATIONS Native Garden – A practical Country guide to garden design, plant Habitat – a practical guide to Tzaros, Chris selection and much more. creating a wildlife-friendly CSIRO Publishing (2005) Australian garden Stewart, Angus & Bishop, A.B. The Water-efficient Garden: A Murdoch Books, 2019 Bishop, A.B. Practical and Innovative Learn more Murdoch Books, 2018 Australian Native Plants: Guide Cultivation, Use in Home Grown – A Practical Archer, J., Hodges, J & landscaping and Propagation Help and advice is out there! Guide to Growing Your Own LeHunt, B Fresh organic Food. Wrigley, John, W. & Fagg, Random House (1993) Murray, City of Greater Bendigo, Waterwise House and Garden 2019. New Holland Publishers PLANNING YOUR WATER: LIQUID CREATING A Free, available from the City (2009) Windust, A Landlinks Press, Collingwood, IDEAL GARDEN GOLD HEALTHY of Greater Bendigo. Native Trees & Shrubs of Victoria (2003) Water sensitive cities Untreated greywater GARDEN Indigenous Plants of Bendigo South Eastern Australia – A Gardener’s Guide to (page 32) (page 49) Queensland fruit fly Costermans, L.F. USEFUL Growing and Protecting Local (page 52) New Holland Publishers, www.watersensitivecities. Environment Protection Plants. WEBSITES org.au Authority (EPA) guidelines Sydney (2009) www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/ www.sgaonline.org.au www.epa.vic.gov.au Free, available from the City Harnessing run off agriculture/QFF Encyclopaedia of Australian of Greater Bendigo and www.natureshare.org (page 32) Sustainable Gardening Plants, Vol 1-9 www.preventfruitfly.com.au/ Australian Plants Society Australia www.smartwatermark.org Melbourne Water’s controlling-fruit-fly/ Bendigo. Elliot, R.W. & Jones, D.L. gardeners/ Lothian, Melbourne (2010) Introduction to Water www.sgaonline.org.au/ Native; Art and Design with www.sustainability.vic.gov.au sensitive urban design greywater-info/ Composting (page 53) Australian Plants Gardening Down-Under www.melbournewater.com. www.weeds.org.au au/planning-and-building/ Stormwater - Downpipe www.sgaonline.org.au/ Herd, Kate & Ivankovic- Handreck, Kevin stormwater-management/ diversion (page 50) the-science-of-composting/ Waters CSIRO Publications (1993) www.melbournewater.com.au Thames & Hudson, Australia introduction-wsud Weeds of the South-East: An and search ‘downpipe PLANT (2017) Identification Guide for diversion’ FROM THE SELECTION The New Native Garden: Australia GROUND UP Urban salinity (page 50) Designing with Australian Environmental weeds Richardson, F.J., Richardson, Plants (page 35) http://vro.agriculture.vic.gov. (page 58) R.G. & Shepherd, R.C.H au/dpi/vro/vrosite.nsf/ Urquhart, Paul R.G. & F.J. Richardson, www.vro.agriculture.vic.gov. www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/ pages/lwm_salinity_ Reed New Holland (2002) Victoria (2011) au/dpi/vro/vrosite.nsf/ agriculture/pests-diseases- management_urban pages/soil_texture-soil- and-weeds The Australian Garden: Waterwise Plants and surface www.nccma.vic.gov.au/ Designing with Australian Gardening Plants North Central Victoria Soil resources/publications/ Walsh, Kevin Health Guide published by weeds-identification-guide Snape, Diana New Holland Publishers, the North Central CMA www.environment.gov.au/ Blooming Books, Melbourne Sydney (2017) www.nccma.vic.gov.au/sites/ biodiversity/invasive/weeds/ (2002) default/files/publications/ weeds/what.html landcare_soils_guide_ june_2016_web.pdf
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PHONE 1300 363 200 | ONLINE coliban.com.au | CONNECT WITH US 78 SMART GARDENS FOR A DRY CLIMATE Gardening is about creating a beautiful and interesting space that we can enjoy with our family and friends. Our gardens are good for our physical health and mental wellbeing. In our changing climate we need to be smart about our gardens and ensure they are water efficient and drought tolerant. Smart Gardens for a Dry Climate provides inspiration, guidance, advice and further resources for the waterwise gardener.
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