Solve a problem, find a plant or look for a design inspiration
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...
The African violets are undoubtedly among the cheeriest indoor plants available, yet people are sometimes disappointed with their performance. To help you grow better African violets, Don looked at some of the more common problems with this plant and how to overcome...
Mulch Path The garden path is usually given a hard surface of bricks, pavers or concrete. Occasionally softer surfaces such as grass or gravel are used. Another option is a eucalyptus mulch path: it looks sensational and costs next to nothing. The path is soft and...