Garden Design

Good garden design starts with a thorough site analysis

 

Observe, grow slow

If you can, take a year to watch where the sun and shade fall, where the runoff travels in storms, find the boggy areas, the first areas to dry out in summer, and also to identify existing species: both indigenous and planted. You may have orchids or other beautiful plants but only see them for a couple of months a year. 

 

Existing features to retain, remove or relocate

• Trees, plants, and patches

• Walls, fences

• Levels

• Access routes for cars and people: do they work well, or should they change? Are all needed or is there a better use for the space?

 

Views

• Key views and viewing points

• Unwanted views to screen or avoid highlighting

 

Shade and Shelter

• Winter sun

• Summer shade

• Prevailing winds and sheltered areas

 

Habitat

• Birds and insects - are there areas they like to perch, nest or feed? Are there areas that some avoid?

• Animal movement - are there regular routes taken by wallabies or wombats to consider?

• Are there pests - rabbits or deer causing damage?

 

Once you’ve completed your site analysis, start thinking about your ideal garden design – what do you want your garden to look like?

 

Think about:

 

Your why - determine the purpose of your garden

• Food - vegetable gardens or nut/fruit orchards

• Habitat - for all sorts or do you have a particular interest in birds, butterflies or frogs, for example?

• Resources - firewood or water supply

• Beauty and enjoyment - shade, colour, foliage, seasonal variety – and seating and viewpoints to enjoy them from

• Or a combination of two or more of the above

 

And where - plan out zones or areas rather than each specific item

 

Work zones

• Storage areas

• Compost

• Greenhouse

• Washing line (face north or catch the wind)

 

Access

• Vehicle access - to sheds and perhaps throughout for transporting mulch or other supplies

• Manual access – wheelbarrows and walking paths

 

Remember it’s okay to grow slow. Create your garden in stages so you can establish each bed or feature properly and learn from any mistakes.

 

Garden Design resources:

Landscaping for Bushfire: Garden Design and Plant Selection:

https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-your-property/landscaping