Gardening Australia episode 19 2023 – In a world brimming with captivating experiences and inspiring encounters, our adventures unfold. Hannah embarks on a mesmerizing journey through a dreamy design, where every corner reveals an enchanting surprise. Meanwhile, Millie finds herself immersed in the company of the next generation of passionate farmers, witnessing their unwavering commitment to sustainable agriculture and the boundless potential they bring to the field.
Amidst the ever-changing urban landscape, Jerry emerges as a guardian of nature, steadfastly rescuing precious plants from the clutches of redevelopment. His tireless efforts shine a beacon of hope, nurturing life and preserving the green sanctuaries that bring solace to our souls. As twilight descends, Sophie takes us on a whimsical exploration of nocturnal botanical wonders. With each step, she uncovers the hidden beauty of flowers that bloom under the moon’s gentle gaze, releasing their captivating fragrance into the night air.
And in our journey of discovery, we encounter a true aficionado of the fuchsia world. An individual whose passion and dedication knows no bounds, they invite us into their world of vibrant hues and delicate petals, sharing the stories and secrets behind these captivating floral marvels. Join us on this extraordinary voyage, where remarkable individuals and their remarkable tales intertwine, painting a tapestry of awe-inspiring experiences and boundless wonders that will forever remain etched in our hearts.
Gardening Australia episode 19 2023
Designs in Mind
Situated on a sloping block in suburban Hobart, Hannah had the pleasure of visiting Debbie Crawford’s meticulously designed dream garden. This remarkable space, adorned with repurposed materials and local flora, captivated Hannah’s senses.
Debbie had a clear vision for her dream garden, one that harmoniously combined functionality and aesthetics. Seeking a landscape that embraced her desire for outdoor entertainment, she envisioned a fire pit for social gatherings, a soothing water feature, and a cozy nook where she could witness the enchanting moonrise. Moreover, Debbie aimed to cultivate a garden that allowed her to utilize its bounties for cooking, while minimizing the need for extensive maintenance and maximizing its native charm.
Driven by her strong convictions, Debbie chose not to engage a designer but rather sought the expertise of a local landscaper who demonstrated a penchant for incorporating natural materials into his projects. Inspired by his captivating portfolio, she believed that together, they could bring her vision to life as a collaborative force.
The task of transforming Debbie’s dream garden fell into the capable hands of Jethro Plunkett and his skilled team. The sheer magnitude of their efforts became apparent as they tirelessly hauled an astonishing 300 tons of stone boulders up the narrow driveway. Jethro humorously remarked, “We might have more stone here than the actual quarry!” This laborious undertaking resulted in the creation of exquisite, organic boundaries and retaining walls, where each stone was meticulously stacked to eschew any rigid lines. Furthermore, the presence of stone fostered a warmer micro-climate, an invaluable advantage in Tasmania’s cool temperate climate. Jethro enthusiastically explained, “The stone offers a multitude of benefits. Not only does it provide thermal mass and passive drainage, but it also seamlessly blends with the natural contours of the land.”
When Jethro joined the project, he encountered existing plants such as raspberry and quince, which formed a solid foundation for his creative additions. He carefully selected a range of vibrant perennials and drought-tolerant native species to enhance the garden’s ecological value and reduce the need for excessive upkeep. Reflecting on the process, Jethro shared, “The garden’s evolution was a fascinating journey. We experimented with various elements, embracing what thrived and adjusting accordingly. Gardening, after all, is a continuous process of growth and discovery.” Jethro specifically highlighted the impressive resilience of plants like blue moon, seaside daisies, and salvia, which not only thrived against the arid warmth of the stone but also served as invaluable pollinators for the vegetable garden. Additionally, the team seamlessly incorporated the native cushion bush, seamlessly nestled amidst the rocky terrain, paying homage to Tasmania’s high plains.
In summary, Hannah’s visit to Debbie Crawford’s dream garden was an extraordinary experience. The masterful integration of repurposed materials, native plants, and Debbie’s unique vision resulted in a garden that exuded both professionalism and enchantment.
School of Harcourt
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of central Victoria, the enchanting story of Millie unfolds as she crosses paths with a remarkable family. This family, with their deep-rooted connection to the land, has embarked on an inspiring journey of leasing their sprawling fruit orchard to pave the way for the next generation of farmers.
Welcome to Harcourt Organic Co-operative, an idyllic 30-hectare property that holds a rich history spanning over a century. Initially established as a humble orchard, it has blossomed into a beacon of hope, driven by a mission to enhance food security and provide invaluable land access for aspiring farmers. Today, this bountiful place not only bears fruit but also nourishes the entire community it serves.
At the helm of this extraordinary venture is Merv Carr, a seasoned grafter who, in 1971, took the reins of the orchard his father once tended to back in the vibrant 1920s. Now, with his unwavering passion passed down through generations, Merv’s daughter, Katie Finlay, alongside her partner Hugh, proudly shoulder the responsibility of running and operating the farm.
For Katie, diversity lies at the very heart of their endeavors. And this diversity goes beyond merely cultivating various types of plants; it permeates the very fabric of their cooperative. Within the embrace of Harcourt, diversity thrives within the soil, inviting a multitude of native animals to find solace in its vibrant ecosystem. Here, diverse enterprises flourish, as do the unique individuals who contribute their diverse farming models to this collaborative tapestry. In essence, diversity is the guiding principle that permeates every facet of their work.
Having grown up amidst the gentle whispers of nature on this very land, Katie’s decision to pursue a career in farming was deeply rooted in her soul. When her father contemplated selling the orchard back in 1998, an undeniable call beckoned her to preserve and cultivate the legacy woven into her very being. “As we embarked on this journey of learning,” shares Katie, “it was fascinating to discover just how much of this agricultural wisdom had unknowingly seeped into my being. It’s as if the essence of farming had become an inseparable part of who I am. While we had to start from scratch in terms of the production side, we consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have our father, who remains a guiding light, still by our side, imparting his wisdom to this day.”
Millie, captivated by the resilience and unwavering commitment of this extraordinary family, is reminded of the profound power of generational knowledge and the beauty that unfolds when the love for the land is passed down through the ages. In the midst of Harcourt Organic Co-operative’s lush orchards, a new chapter in the story of farming is being written—one that embraces diversity, sustains the community, and nurtures the dreams of future farmers yet to come.
Hunt for Old Gold
In the face of impending redevelopment, don’t bid farewell to your cherished heirloom plants just yet! Jerry, the plant enthusiast extraordinaire, is here to lend a green thumb and share invaluable tips and techniques on how to safely relocate your botanical treasures. Get ready to refine your plant-spotting skills and distinguish the crème de la crème from the rest of the garden.
Preserving the Best, Leaving Behind the Rest
One crucial aspect to bear in mind when deconstructing an established garden is the presence of environmental weed species, which often found their way into unsuspecting soil. These sneaky intruders include the formidable Cocos palm, the elegant Tradescantia zebrina, the vigorous coral vine, the enchanting morning glory, and the relentless creeping inch plant. Eradicating these resilient interlopers can prove to be an arduous task, and it’s best to bid them farewell, leaving them behind in their original habitat. Transporting these weeds to a new location can exacerbate their environmental impact. To ensure you make an informed decision, consult your local authority’s website to identify the weed status of each plant before embarking on the relocation journey. Additionally, be mindful of invasive pests like fire ants, as well as pathogens and diseases that may hitch a ride with your garden materials. Give the roots a thorough inspection to ensure they are clean, and if you reside in a containment area, reach out to your local bio-security agency for expert advice and guidance.
Plant Selection: Separating the Diamonds from the Rough
While the desire to salvage every single plant might be tempting, let’s face the reality that some are simply not worth the Herculean effort. Take, for example, the Australian native Lomandra hystrix. Though undoubtedly useful, this resilient species can be easily sourced and acquired at an affordable price. Instead of toiling to relocate it, consider parting ways and redirect your efforts toward more deserving candidates. Another cautionary tale lies in the realm of the majestic bird of paradise. With its deep, tenacious roots and dense, formidable growth, attempting to move this beauty would require the strength of a mighty bobcat. Save your precious back from undue strain and focus your attention on alternative options that are more amenable to relocation.
With Jerry as your guide, armed with expert advice and a discerning eye, you can embark on the journey of rescuing and relocating your beloved plants from the clutches of redevelopment. Together, let’s celebrate the resilience of nature and preserve the botanical wonders that have graced your garden for years to come.