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[metaslider id=31337] Maidenhair ferns are soft and lacy plants which have a variety of uses both indoors and outside. With more than 200 species of maidenhair and many more cultivars, choosing a favourite may be difficult, but they are attractive and rewarding plants...
In the wild, plants are nourished by a constant diet of decaying plant and animal matter. But in the artificial environment of the garden, plants need to supplement their diet with fertilisers. Spring is the time to fertilise your garden including any lawns,...
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...
Deciduous magnolias produce their spectacular winter and early spring blooms on naked branches. Although expensive plants to buy they are long-lived, slow growing trees which bring a stunning display to your garden each year. The exciting news about magnolias is that...