Gallery Magazine – Springmedia

Planning a new landscape can be a complex operation, especially if you are doing it in conjunction with the construction of a new home or major renovation work

With the arrival of spring, it’s time to start thinking about the garden. In Sydney we have a relatively temperate environment and with the exception of deciduous plants most evergreen plants continue growth albeit slower through the winter months.

Following the last frost of winter is the best time to start pruning hedges, trees and shrubs. The initial pruning of deciduous shrubs can occur during the winter however as these plants, whilst without leaves, are sitting in a dormant state.

Spring brings an abundance of new growth and with this we also see an increase in the demand for nutrients. To ensure that nutrients are available to the plants in the soil; composts, organic fertilisers and mulch should be added to the soil around the root zones of your plants in late winter and early spring.

Spring is also the time for planting new gardens with trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials. As warmth returns to the soil and air we see an awakening of life in the garden from a flurry of insects to darting lizards and nesting birds.

With daylight saving on the horizon, spring is a great time to start planning your DIY garden make over project or an entire landscape renovation. A landscape designer can assist you with identifying the features that you want to highlight and give guidance to the preparation required. Your designer can also advise you if you need to prepare plans for council approval for any construction.

A master plan is essential for all DIY projects as it enables an over view or “road map” for all future works. With a master plan you know the final result and you can work bit by bit towards achieving the final result in achievable stages. A landscape design consultant can assist with the staging of works to ensure you work efficiently and effectively in accordance with best industry practice.

With a designers input you can include and integrate planting composition with material selection. Ecodesign specialises in Horticulture, Landscape Design and Landscape Project Management. We provide advice from the health of your fruit trees to managing the approval and construction of
decks, pergolas, swimming pools and outdoor rooms.

The landscape design process can extend from 2-3 weeks for a basic garden makeover to 6-8 weeks for the design of a complete landscape renovation. Additional time is also required for council or certification of complying developments and the tendering of construction works.

Your garden is a reflection of you. Perhaps you want it functional or decorative or both. There is no wrong garden but there are ways to ensure your garden is harmonious with your home and best suits the needs of your household.

* AILDM – Australian Institute of Landscape Designers and Managers

(This article appeared in the Spring 2011 edition of Gallery Magazine Download PDF version of the article)