Everyone likes the idea of their garden being a lush, vibrant and colourful oasis to relax and unwind in.
But it’s the thought of spending hours upon hours every week tending to your plants and flowers that puts most of us off. Everyone likes the idea of their garden being a lush, vibrant and colourful oasis to relax and unwind in, but it’s the thought of spending hours upon hours every week tending to your plants and flowers that puts most of us off.
What if you could still have your dream garden but with little to no upkeep? Low maintenance garden design is the concept of deliberately establishing your garden in a way that is as close to self-sufficient as possible, so that you can save yourself time and money in the long run.
For one, you won’t have to buy as many tools or products, and you won’t need to spend nearly as much time caring for your plants. Additionally, low maintenance gardens tend to be more resilient than high maintenance ones, as they’re designed to be more impervious to pests and diseases.
When it comes to low maintenance garden design ideas in Australia, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Strategic plant selection
First, you’ll want to choose plants and flowers that are native to your area. This is because they will be better equipped to handle the local climate and conditions. Additionally, it’s best to choose hardy plants that don’t require a lot of water or care. Succulents or perennials are both great options for low maintenance gardens.
Remember to choose plant varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, and if you’re looking to reduce the amount of time you spend tending your garden, choose plants that require little pruning and deadheading as well.
Once you’ve selected the perfect plants for your low maintenance garden, it’s time to start thinking about how you want to arrange them. Again, you’ll want to keep things simple – opt for symmetry and clean lines over complex designs. Group plants together according to their height, blooming times and water needs, as these clusters will help to create an interesting landscape that is easy to take care of.
That being said, make sure your plants have enough space to grow, otherwise they can easily become overcrowded and stressed. Finally, plant flowers in succession so that there is always something blooming.
How to approach soil and irrigation
Mulching is another key to low-maintenance gardening. By adding a layer of mulch around your plants, you can reduce evaporation, suppress weeds and protect roots from extreme temperatures. You can also use ground covers instead of grass to cut down on mowing time. Finally, consider using automation for tasks like irrigation and fertilisation, as timers and drip systems can help you save time and ensure your plants are getting the care they need.
Be efficient with your garden décor choices
When brainstorming low maintenance garden ideas, consider adding some decorative elements to enhance the aesthetic of your garden. Stones, pavers, statues, a bird bath or a wind chime are all great additions that can make your garden more inviting without adding to the workload. If you have the space, perhaps you could even add a small pond or waterfall. These features not only look great, but they can also provide a relaxing soundscape for your outdoor oasis.
A stitch in time saves nine!
Finally, remember that low maintenance gardens still need some care and attention. Be sure to fertilise your plants regularly, and water them as needed. Keep your garden tidy by weeding and trimming regularly, and keep the area around your garden free of debris and overgrown vegetation. By spending a little bit of time on these tasks each week, you’ll have yourself a stunning garden retreat with almost no upkeep required.
