Changing how we think about suburban gardens

John Colwil at the Australind Shopping Centre on 21 October 2017.

Celebrity gardener John Colwill from Beyond Gardens, joined the Leschenault Catchment Council to share tips with the public on how to create a waterwise garden using minimal fertiliser and resilient local native plants, without compromising on style.

The Leschenault Catchment Council (LCC) is working with Water Corporation and the Leschenault Community Nursery to encourage the community to do their part in protecting our rivers and estuaries.

LCC Communications Manager, Sharon Upston said that two free workshops were held at the Australind Shopping Centre in October where plenty of native plants were available for sale, as well as staff and volunteers on hand to answer gardening questions.

“The workshops help people understand that, on average, we use too much fertiliser on our gardens. During garden watering or rainfall, this excess fertiliser runs off our gardens and enters our rivers and estuaries through stormwater drains, said Sharon.

“In addition, native gardens require less water and fertiliser, so by making small changes in our gardens we can further reduce fertiliser use and save some money as well.

“The Greater Bunbury region is experiencing high population growth and development with a number of new subdivisions near Australind, including the subdivisions of Kingston, Treendale and Millbridge.

“Accordingly, these workshops are designed to attract young families that are building new homes and planning their garden landscaping in the near future.

“If you would like more information or to express your interest in attending future workshops, contact the Leschenault Catchment Council,” offered Sharon.