Garden design mistakes are costly, wasteful and discouraging…and really easy to make.  In this episode we chat about how to avoid common design flaws, poor hardscape choices, accessories that don’t belong and plants in the wrong places. We discuss examples of why and where things go wrong, and what to do about it. If you need a hard-hitting and honest reality check of why your garden just isn’t giving, then this episode is for you. And of course, it’s all caveated with a little sprinkling of...

Small outdoor spaces have to work hard and every inch, plant and pot matters. In this episode we chat about the challenges in designing small spaces and how to overcome these by applying the principles of scale, unity and simplicity. We discuss examples and ideas for selecting plants, materials and accessories appropriate to these tricky outdoor areas. If you have a small outdoor area that’s just not giving you joy, tune in for inspiration to transform your space to one that is inviting and...

Plants are a key component of garden design. But how much thought do we give to their all-season contribution and through-life maintenance? In this episode we welcome a special guest, Attila the Horticulturist, to chat about how to choose and manage plants for your garden. Attila gives us his professional insight to plant criteria, tips on siting plants and hedging, and some maintenance challenges to avoid. He also discusses the relationship between designers and gardeners, and offers...

What are the building blocks for good design? Why do some gardens just feel right? In this episode we chat about how to apply design principles for creating or improving your garden. We talk about the theory behind landscape design elements, principles and even laws, and share practical ways to achieve these. If you love a list, a bit of theory and some formulas for great garden design, then tune in for a light-hearted exploration of our top three design principles. Photos for this episode...

Are you a sucker for blossoms, flowers and bulbs? Does your garden look amazing in early Spring and then lacklustre for the other 48 weeks of the year? In this episode we chat about how good design delivers colour and effect through every season. We’ll give you ideas and some formulas to find that balance of flowers, foliage and hardscaping. We prompt you to think design first and then think plants. We chat about choosing plants that fulfil several functions and plants that achieve impact...

Do you want a beautiful garden but don’t have the budget? In this episode we give you thrifty tips and ideas about how you can design and create your garden on a budget.  We chat about where to find knowledge to draw your own design, ideas for sourcing cheaper materials and sculptures, low-cost options for acquiring plants and savings on soil improvement; and give examples of when not to skimp.   We share some personal stories to inspire you to create that beautiful and meaningful garden...

In Episode 5 we chat about the design elements of a cottage garden. To help you create this timeless, informal and sensory garden style, we give you ideas and inspiration for choosing the layout, colours, materials, accessories and plants.  It’s a great style if you want to create a garden on a budget; but, it's not all rose-coloured: so, we also highlight maintenance needs and seasonality challenges to keep your cottage garden at its best. Photos for this episode are on Instagram at On...

In Episode 4b we chat about structural challenges in the garden and make suggestions to address these through design solutions. There’s plenty of general tips and tricks for improving the aesthetic and functionality of your garden. Our discussion is scenario-based, offering practical ideas to overcome typical garden problem areas; such as unsightly boundary fences, screening utilities, and under-utilised or disconnected built spaces. We chat about options other than concealing issues and how...

In Episode 4a we chat about environmental challenges in the garden and suggest how to address these through design. There’s plenty of tips and tricks for improving the aesthetic and functionality of your garden. Our discussion is scenario-based, offering practical ideas to overcome typical garden problems; such as dry shade and damp areas, managing dog poo, invasive plants sneaking into your garden, slope and difficult soils. Photos for this episode are on Instagram at On Garden...

What should you expect when you engage a garden or landscape designer? We chat about how you can prepare and get the most from your investment so you can ensure what you get is tailored to your needs and wants. We chat about the consultation, engagement and documents that make up the garden design process. Photos for this episode are on Instagram at On Garden Design ☕☕☕ BUY US A COFFEE if you loved this episode 🌼🌷🌱

Knowing who to engage for your garden project will save you time and money, manage your expectations and help achieve your outcomes. We chat about the roles, skills, cost and crossover between horticulturists, landscapers, landscape or garden designers and landscape architects. Our chat is scenario-based and aims to help you understand which landscape professional is right for your project. Photos for this episode are on Instagram at On Garden Design ☕☕☕ BUY US A COFFEE if you loved this...

Tips, tricks and opinions on adding structure to your winter garden. Our chat considers the role of plantings, sculptures and hardscapes.