Solve a problem, find a plant or look for a design inspiration
We took that classic backyard disaster area, the disused driveway on the side of the house, and transformed it into a tropical jungle fantasy garden complete with ponds, a waterfall, colourful plants, a boardwalk and a suspension bridge. The progression of this...
Recently a photograph was sent into Burke’s Backyard showing what appears to be a number of eucalypt trees (See photo). In actual fact this is just one tree. Whilst this look may have occurred naturally it is an effect you can create in your own garden. How to...
At the front of Rainbow Ridge Nursery (see ‘New books’ this week) is an unusual hedge. Rather than just a straight row of plants this hedge appears to be plaited together or knotted as if made with a knotted cord. The design is based on a traditional...
Fireweed Recently on ‘Burke’s Backyard’ Don explained the dangers of fireweed, a pretty yet poisonous yellow flowering weed that is often found in paddocks and pastures. This plant is poisonous to both horses and donkeys, and other livestock can also...
In growing Australian cities there is an urgent need to build houses on increasingly smaller blocks of land. As an alternative to using land for high-rise buildings such as flats and units, designers are now looking at other ways of increasing residential densities....
Narrow Space Garden The narrow area at the side of a house can often cause a problem for home owners and can become a neglected part of the garden. Don recently visited a narrow, neglected garden that has been transformed into an oasis of colour and foliage, thanks to...
Paddington Courtyard For those many people living in rental accommodation a garden may seem an impossibility yet one inner-city tenant has found the perfect solution. ‘Burke’s Backyard’ recently went behind the courtyard walls to see what can be done...
Baby’s tears is a ground cover plant with tiny leaves. It grows in moist areas and has a moss-like appearance. Details Common name: Baby’s tears, angel’s tears, helxine. Botanic name: Soleirolia soleirolii. The plant is named after M. Soleirol, a...
Most backyards have an old patch of lawn around the house, worn by years of constant human and pet traffic. Many home-owners solve the problem with a concrete path, but what about a more visually exciting alternative? Roger Apte demonstrated how to lay a stepping...
Iris Book One of the most spectacular achievements in plant breeding this century is the development of modern irises. There are many different iris species and within the main garden irises such as tall bearded and Japanese iris, exist a myriad of colour and forms....