Outdoor Living
Little touches make this garden design stand out, such as planting Liriope under the bench, so the seat appears to float on a sea of green. Also love the Pandanus tree (except it cost them $4000!). Plant list: Pandanus Heliconia – assorted Senecio serpens Frangipani Cordyline – assorted Zoysia tenuifolia – assorted Bromeliads – assorted Philodendron xanadu Liriope Evergreen Giant Dietes grandiflora Kangaroo paw Sir Walter buffalo grass.
Create a jungle effect - in narrow garden spaces In warm areas, turn moist and shady side gardens (south- or east-facing) into a lush, green jungle. Add white paving stones as shown here to contrast with the array of different greens. In this Auckland, NZ, garden designed by Jules Moore for Zones Landscaping Specialists, Bangalow and Kentia palms are underplanted with vibrant subtropical foliage such as Maranta and bromeliads. For a similar effect you could also use tractor seat plant (Ligularia reniformis), Farfugium, Colocasia, Ctenanthe, Aspidistra and Rodgersia.
If you want a tough shrub Westringia practically defines versatility. This Australian native has so many uses, be it tight topiary balls in a formal garden, loosely kept hedges in a more semi formal setting, or left completely to do its own thing in a salty, coastal garden. It is the jack of all trades in the plant world and can basically be used anywhere within your garden! Apart from its sticking silver/grey foliage, it produces a beautiful small flower throughout the year.
If you want wow factor Are you lucky enough to live in a coastal home? Consider a Pandanus in your garden. Almost alien in appearance, the strappy leaves, gnarly trunk and often exposed, visible roots make sure this tree demands attention. Often found growing along coastal fringes and sand dunes, it will be right at home in your front line salt garden! TIP: This is a great Australian native alternative to the more commonly used frangipani (Plumeria spp.).
Rhapis palm/lady palm Rhapis palm (Rhapis excelsa) is a tough and drought-hardy palm that prefers a shaded to semi-shaded position. It is well-behaved and attractive, which makes it a highly desirable addition to a subtropical garden. It has been known to even win over the hearts of the staunchest of palm haters. TIP: Because of their slow-growing nature, these small palms are perfect for planters and pots.
Australian native violet Australian native violets (Viola hederacea) make for beautiful ground cover between pavers in moist shady areas and can even be used as a lawn alternative because it will withstand light foot traffic. TIP: Make sure to plant in true shade in the subtropics. Too many of these little beauties have been lost by my negligence through not enough water and not enough shade.
Work in special details Achieving a large mosaic-paved area can be daunting and is often costly. I love this path that uses just a small area of mosaic infill amid crazy paving. Even better, it’s not just pebbles – some jewel-like stones or marbles have been added to catch the glint of the sun and create a small detail that makes this paving unique.
Dazzle passers-by with colour With plantings this pretty, no one will notice the fence needs a paint. In fact, it will probably just add some rustic charm. Roses are just the thing for more traditional houses, while sculptural succulents and striking grasses may be better choices for ultra-contemporary home designs.
Poolside seating People are often reluctant to place bench seating adjacent to a swimming pool, as they feel it limits the space around it. I totally disagree with this. In fact, I think fixed seating like the example shown here provides a much-needed area to lounge in the sun and dry off after a swim – and it actually takes up less room than moveable furniture. It’s important, however, that you check with your local certifier to ensure you’re not breaking any pool fencing regulations by having fixed seating in the pool area.
Pint-sized party patio This sliver of a yard in San Francisco could easily have been a forgotten space sandwiched between two tall buildings. But with the addition of a few well-placed climbing plants, a picnic table and string lights overhead, it is now a vibrant place to gather with friends.
vertical garden
Vertical garden
Something like this could be epic in our tiny backyard!
blackboard paint to ID pots
Like the silver metal chairs and timber bench seat
Nice timber outdoor setting
Make an outdoor living room more intimate A stunning living room outside will also wow your buyers, and adding an outdoor rug to this space instantly elevates it, helping it feel more like an extra room of the house, rather than just an outdoor area. Outdoor rugs are available in a wide array of sizes, colours and designs. Choose a style that works well in your space and appeals to your target buyers. A simple, neutral style designed to blend in may be best for a more upmarket property, and adding a pop of bright colour and pattern may work well for younger buyers.
Rocks and Boardwalk
Lighting in the garden
Grow edibles in pots and hang them on a lattice fence - such a good idea if you're limited with backyard space.
Side garden ideas
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