How should I prune plants during winter?

Sharpen the secateurs! The first chore, in all but frosty areas, is rose pruning. Be bold, leaving only an open framework of three or four main stems. Spray these and the surrounding soil with lime sulfur to clean up pests and diseases.

Other plants to prune when bare include hydrangeas, wisteria and grapes.

The peak cold of early August is the best time to give gardenias their main pruning. Cuttings of frangipanis will make instant new trees; leave them to dry for a few weeks, then pot or plant into a sandy mix, adding stakes for support.

Cut ornamental grasses almost to ground level to rejuvenate and spray lawns for bindii as soon as their ferny leaves appear.

What flowers should I plant in a winter garden?

Although many plants are resting, spring bulbs, winter-flowering natives and flowering hedges are growing actively, including the coastal tea tree, Grevillea ‘Fire Cracker’, Grevillea ‘Deua Gold’, heath-leaved banksia, and silver princess eucalyptus. Keep these watered and fertilised for peak performance through the cold season.

Other flowering plants perfect for winter gardens include lavender, hardenbergia, daphne, paper daisy and snowdrop.

What jobs do I need to do in my garden during winter?

• Feed citrus in late July, using an all-purpose citrus fertiliser.
• Keep sowing carrots, spring onions, leeks, broad beans, radishes, English spinach and peas.
• If you haven’t planted asparagus and rhubarb crowns yet, don’t delay.
• Strawberries can also go in now.
• Start seeds of tomatoes, eggplant and capsicum on a warm windowsill, ready for planting when the soil warms.

What vegetables can I grow in a winter garden?

• Carrots: Grown all year round, carrots can withstand a large variety of temperatures including cold. However, these veggies go great in those winter broths and soups. To ensure you get the best out of your carrots make sure that your soil doesn’t dry out, water regularly and keep the soil moist for the first two weeks of germination.
• Broccoli: Broccoli loves to grow in a nice sunny spot, so make sure you position your growing produce where they will receive some rays of sunshine. Remember to give your veggies a good drink of water and keep the soil most.
• Garlic: A great tip for growing garlic is to not water your soil until your cloves have germinated, which will occur approximately two weeks after planting. Following this, ensure you water the soil often enough so that it remains moist but not wet.
• Spinach: Don’t forget to water your growing spinach regularly and feed once seedlings begin to emerge with a plant food and soil improver that feeds your crops above and below the ground by creating a balanced and sustainable growing environment for bigger, healthier crops. Depending on the type of spinach variety you’re growing, it should be ready to enjoy in six to eight weeks.

Turns out, it’s pretty easy to grow a variety of fresh herbs in winter! Try your hand at these:

• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Parsley
• Basil
• Mint
• Winter Savory

Herbs to grow in a winter garden

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They snapped it up in 2021 while living in the Netherlands and enlisted architect Ben Robertson and interior architect Lauren Foy of Tecture and stylist Rebecca Jansma.

One of the owners, a seasoned renovator of heritage homes, explains: “Our agent assured us the location was perfect, and we trusted that Tecture and the builders would turn it into a beautiful family home.”

The north-facing property did tick all the boxes, yet it was ripe for a European-inspired reimagining ahead of the owners’ return to Australia with their two teenage kids. Over Zoom and email, Ben, Lauren and the owners finessed the floorplan and interiors to inject quiet luxury.

The rear extension — sporting a quirky diagonal corridor, bonus bedroom and faux-Colonial kitchen — along with a single-room, second-storey annex, had to go. Ben and Lauren redesigned the extension, restoring the now single-level house to accommodate a marble kitchen, butler’s pantry, laundry and living/dining.

The front of the house was tweaked to include four lavish bedrooms, a bathroom, guest ensuite and powder room. “The main bedroom doesn’t have a walk-in robe, but walk-through robe doors unveil a beautiful ensuite,” says Ben.

The old and new parts of the house are delineated by an elegant study and a family room. “You move past them to get to the lower kitchen/living/dining,” says Ben.

The owner wanted a darker palette and wainscoting here. “There is beauty in cosy and intimate rooms,” says Lauren.

Lauren also took cues from the original house. “It had been painted pastel greens and peachy tones, and some of that did find its way into the palette!”

“For example, the Tiberio marble kitchen island, soft greens in the bathrooms, and the green Venetian plaster in the powder room.”

“I wanted to have fun with colour. Rebecca gave me courage to take chances with fabrics and rugs.”

OWNER

Interior designer Rebecca Jansma assisted with art, furniture, lighting and decor selection. “We only brought two pieces of furniture from the Netherlands — the piano, and a Mathieu Challières light shade from my daughter’s bedroom,” says the owner.

“We needed to furnish from scratch. It was overwhelming, [but] Rebecca was fantastic.”

Outside, Plume Studio added lush plantings, whimsical groundcover and an exterior fireplace. A classic garden adorns the frontage, stepping stones and native violet lead down the side to a courtyard, and beyond the carport and gym is the backyard and barbecue area.

While the owners still travel back and forth to the Netherlands, their new home base in Geelong is special. “This is where we all come together to spend time as a family,” says one of the owners. “We love to entertain, whether inside around the dining table or in the beautiful garden spaces by Plume Studio; but when it’s just the four of us, nothing beats family games night.”

THIS IS THE LIFE

After an 18-month build, this globetrotting family of four was rapt with the result. “The materials and features are beautiful, but most of all, the spaces feel wonderful.”

Ben and Lauren are most proud that the international owners trusted them wholeheartedly. It was such a success, in fact, that they’ve re-engaged Tecture to transform their holiday house. Watch this space.

Tecture: tecture.com.au.

Rebecca Jansma Interior Design: rebeccajansma.com.au.

Biviano Builders: @bivianobuilders.

Plume Studio: plumestudio.com.au.

The Design Team

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This sweet and striking variety of citrus, which has the botanical name Citrus sinensis, is believed to have originated in Asia, but are now grown in warm climates across the globe including the Mediterranean, parts of the US, and of course, here in sunny Australia.

What are the different varieties of blood orange?

There are a number of different types of blood oranges, but these are the most common ones you’re likely to find in Australia:

• Arnold
• Maltese
• Ruby Blood
• Tarocco Ippolito
• Tarocco Meli
• Tarocco Rosso

How to grow blood oranges

Blood oranges are just like other citrus plants in that they love full sun, well-drained soil and plenty of water throughout the warmer months. They prefer hot summers and mild, dry winters – seasonal conditions that promote fruit colouration. Cropping can extend for several months from winter to spring, and fruit will remain fresh and juicy if left on the tree.

When it comes to planting or potting your blood orange tree, you’ll want to opt for deep, free-draining soil with lots of compost. Using lightly acidic soil and sheltering your tree from strong winds should help your blood orange thrive, as will a good citrus fertiliser.

Depending on the variety and whether or not the tree is potted, blood oranges can grow as tall as six metres, but usually are grown and pruned to around two metres in height. They can be planted any time of the year, but autumn and spring are preferred.

How long does it take for a blood orange tree to fruit?

It typically takes blood orange trees a year or two before they begin to bear fruit, and when they do, it’s recommended that all young fruit be removed to ensure sustained growth as your tree matures. But your patience and effort will pay off in the long-run; once your tree is established and happy, it will produce delicious and juicy fruit, usually around autumn to late spring.

Care and maintenance

We recommend feeding your blood oranges four times a year between late winter and autumn with a balanced, granular organic fertiliser. Hand-weed around the tree to avoid harming surface-feeding roots and maintain a 5–7cm layer of organic mulch over the soil under the leaf canopy. Don’t allow mulch to touch the trunk. For the juiciest oranges, water regularly, especially when fruit is forming. Immature fruit drop indicates irregular watering during fruit development.

Citrus need pruning for shaping rather than fruit production. It’s important to remove any shoots emerging from below the graft union and any shoots that are weak or spindly. As the tree grows, regularly remove any dead wood. Harvest time is the best time to shape young trees. Keep the best upright stems, and aim to create an open, vase-shaped crown, strong enough to support a heavy crop. Cut off fruit when harvesting to avoid damage.

Pests and diseases

Unfortunately, there are a number of pests and diseases you’ll need to keep an eye out for. Here’s what you need to know:

• Bronze orange bugs feed during warm seasons, weakening young trees. Spray with horticultural oil in winter while the pest is in its nymphal stage.

• Sooty mould blackens foliage, a sign that scale insects or aphids are feeding on sap. Spray thoroughly with horticultural oil.

• Citrus leaf miner tunnel through the tissue of new leaves, distorting them. Spray new growth regularly with a horticultural spray oil to deter egg-laying.

• Fruit fly may attack during autumn, so monitor with baits and traps and use a splash bait on foliage if fruit fly is about.

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Landscape expert Jason Hodges says a change in temperature doesn’t have to force us to adjust how we entertain and enjoy our outdoor areas and gardens. “A little preparation and a few smart purchases can winter-proof your backyard by transforming it into a cosy feature area that will be a family favourite year round.”

Here are Jason’s top tips for getting your garden and outdoor space winter-ready:

1. Build a solid foundation

“To make the most of your yard during winter, the important thing, before we even get to outdoor heating, is laying a solid foundation,” says Jason. That could mean ensuring there’s appropriate drainage to avoid your backyard turning into a muddy mess after heavy rainfall or laying a paved entertaining area to host cosy dinner parties. For functionality, we recommend choosing an area near your back door to pave an entertaining patio, which, if possible, should ideally be large enough to fit an outdoor setting and heating unit.

Another great way to make your outdoor space fit for winter entertaining is by investing in an awning or pergola to shelter it from the elements and create the sense of a dedicated outdoor space.

2. Lawn care

Winter can be a tough time for lawns but there are ways in which you can prevent this through careful preparation.

Choose a slow-release fertiliser and feed your lawn throughout autumn ensuring it is healthy and in good condition coming into winter. The north-east of Australia tends to get less rain than in the stormy summer months so if you experience drier winters, it’s important to keep your lawn hydrated. In the southern parts of the country where there is more rain during winter, you can switch to watering as needed. You’ll know when grass is thirsty by watching for curling of the leaves or the appearance of dry spots.

3. Choose your plants wisely

If you are in the process of renovating your garden, it’s a good time to consider plant and flower choices. Winter tends to be a time for barren branches and slow growth, but it’s absolutely possible to inject some colour and life back into your garden during the cooler months.

While there are a number of fantastic flowering plants that thrive in cold conditions, we recommend camellias, which are not only gorgeous but will flower for over six months a year in the right conditions.

If you’ve got potted plants, take the opportunity to consider their position in the garden and if you can, move them to an area that may be better suited to capturing more morning sunlight.

4. Add some outdoor lighting

With those short winter days, a well-lit garden is essential if you want to keep the good times going while hosting winter soirees.

“Outdoor lighting allows us to create an atmosphere for different purposes whether it’s for late night dinners or nights by the fire pit,” says Jason.

That’s why a practical floodlight is the best and most effective way to illuminate a large outdoor area. Although floodlights are akin to the dreaded “big light”, they are the most effective way to illuminate a large outdoor area. But once you’ve got your floodlights in place, you can then consider adding more subtle and softer lighting in the form of outdoor lanterns, fairy lights, outdoor LED strip lights and small garden stake lights. Don’t forget to look for the IP44 rating for indoor and outdoor use in all conditions when shopping for outdoor lighting.

5. Warm it up

No garden is winter-ready without a source of heat. Opt for a mobile heater to provide flexibility or a stylish yet functional fixed strip heater if you have an overhead pergola.

Backyard fire pits provide an affordable way to add real wow factor and a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor space. You can also test your DIY skills by building your own.

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To help you find the best dishwasher for your home, our team have rounded up the top models available in Australia, and there are styles to suit every home and kitchen size, from slender 450mm-wide dishwashers for small kitchens to models that are large enough to accommodate the loads of keen entertainers or big families – and everything in between.

The best dishwashers to buy in Australia 2024

01

LG 14 place QuadWash dishwasher

$899, The Good Guys

Featuring four spray blades, two of which have oscillating nozzles that evenly disperse water, this dishwasher from BOSCH is able to clean your dishes from all angles until they are nothing but sparkling clean. It’s powered by LG’s Inverter Direct Drive motor where you can control power levels for specific levels – meaning you can opt for a more powerful wash for pots and pans on the bottom rack, and a softer wash for delicate glassware on the top rack, at the same time.

Key features:

• Reliable and quiet with sparkling clean results
• Dual-zone wash allows you to lightly clean delicate dishes and heavily scrub dirty pans during the same wash
• 10-year warranty

Also available at:

• $925 (usually 1079), Appliances Online

Shop now

02

Samsung 60cm stainless steel freestanding dishwasher

$799, The Good Guys

Featuring a generous 14-place setting capacity and flexible baskets, you can cook and clean large amounts of dishes and cookware without a worry with this freestanding dishwasher from Samsung. Plus, it also comes with a Sanitise function to ensure a hygienic clean by extending the final rinse and increasing the water temperature to 70˚C.

Key features:

• Run half loads to save on energy and time
• Height adjustable internal space to accommodate larger items with ease
• Two colourways – black and silver

Also available at:

• $799, Samsung

Shop now

03

BOSCH Series 2 60cm freestanding dishwasher

$718, Appliances Online

Featuring EcoSilence Drive technology for energy efficiency and silent operation, this freestanding dishwasher by BOSCH is great for busy households. Plus, with its anti-fingerprint finish, it’ll look as good as new at all times.

Key features:

• 13 place setting capacity
• 4 wash programs including Auto, Eco, Express and Pots & Pans cycles
• 2-year warranty

Also available at:

• $675, The Good Guys

Shop Now

04

ILVE IVFSD10X freestanding dishwasher

$1251 (usually $1845), Appliances Online

Sparkling dishes are as good as the dishwasher that washes them. That’s why this model by ILVE is a great option to consider, with 15 place settings, 10 wash programs including one that ‘reads’ how dirty your dishes are and adjusts the water level and temperature to suit, you’ll be wondering why you even considered hand washing your dishes.

Key features:

• 15 place settings
• 10 different wash programs
• 2-year warranty

Shop Now

05

NEFF built in under dishwasher

$1599 (usually $1799), Appliances Online

This German-made machine accommodates 15 place settings and has six wash programs, including one for heavily soiled dishes and pans which is often the hardest to wash. Plus, it also has a cutlery drawer that sits at the top of the machine and five spray arms to ensure water reaches every nook and cranny for an efficient and effective clean.

Key features:

• Handy cutlery drawer maximises the internal dishwasher space
• Neff Aqua Stop system delivers fail-safe leak protection
• 4-year warranty

Shop Now

06

Asko logic fully integrated 60cm dishwasher

$1699 (usually $2099), The Good Guys

This fully integrated dishwasher by Asko combines style with practicality. Its integrated design means you can add your own door to match your existing cabinetry and kitchen design. With a 16 place-setting capacity and 9 programs – including upper half and lower half wash cycles for those days when you don’t have a full load, this is a sleek model that is made for the design-led kitchen.

Key features:

• 16 place settings
• No need to rinse the dishes thanks to Asko’s ‘Super Cleaning System’
• Automatic water softener for better washing performance

Also available at:

• $1699 (usually $2099), Appliances Online

Shop Now

07

Smeg 60cm Universale semi-integrated dishwasher

$1596 (usually $2050), Appliances Online

Made in Italy with a 6-star WELS rating, this 15-place-setting model scores top marks for water efficiency. It offers 10 wash programs (including a 27-minute fast wash), auto drying and a 3.5-star energy rating. Note: this dishwasher does not come with external door panels, so you will need to chat to a cabinet maker to add a door panel that will match your existing cabinetry.

Key features:

• 15 place settings
• 5 regular programmes and 5 quick programmes
• 400gsm

Shop Now

08

Miele autodos stainless steel built under dishwasher

$2699.10 (usually $2999), Appliances Online

This Miele dishwasher features AutoDos which automatically dispenses the correct dishwashing powder dosage depending on your load. Plus, with its AutoStart function via the Miele@Home app, you can start your dishwasher while you’re out, to ensure clean dishes are ready to be used before you’re home for the night.

Key features:

• Sparkling results in under 60 minutes
• AutoOpen drying feature means no need to towel dry clean items before putting away
• 2-year warranty

Shop Now

How to choose the best dishwasher for your home

The key to finding the best dishwasher for your home is to focus on your household’s needs. “Consider how many place settings you need, which wash cycles you’d like, whether you want a water and energy-efficient model, and your budget,” says Geraldine Gillespie, cooking and kitchenware buyer at The Good Guys.

Budget

Expect to pay anywhere from about $370 for a basic dishwasher to $5000 for a premium model with all the bells and whistles. When you’re paying at the top end of dishwasher prices you can expect to see better components, more insulation, quieter operation and superior energy and water consumption. So while an energy-efficient dishwasher may be more expensive at the outset, this investment will pay off over time in your home energy costs. “Buy the highest-rated model you can afford – every extra energy star will save you 20 per cent in running costs,” says Gary Brown, Harvey Norman’s senior brand manager for home appliances.

Size

Ensuring you buy a large enough dishwasher for your household is essential – no one likes dirty dishes stacking up on the kitchen benchtop because the dishwasher is too full again. If you want a dishwasher that is as large as possible, look for a model with a slim basket at the top for cutlery. Not having a cutlery basket at the bottom frees up stacking space, meaning you can fit more dishes in for each cycle.

Features

If niggles such as noisy operation, lengthy run times and dishes that come out wet or dirty have ever left you disappointed, then it’s worth investing in a dishwasher that has the latest tech and features to address these problems.

“Today’s dishwashers have addressed customers’ previous frustrations,” says Brown. “For example, certain brands boast a special air-drying function so all items come out dry. Delicate glassware can be safely washed in machines using special glassware functions, while some models have a hydraulic lift mechanism that raises the bottom basket to the level of the top basket so you don’t have to bend.”

“Some models offer up to 10 wash cycles, including a rapid 30-minute wash, power-saving eco wash and intensive wash for stubborn, baked-on food. Rubber seals, which have a tendency to split and leak over time, have been replaced with practical steel interior seals. They’re quieter too – with many of the European models, it’s hard to even tell they’re on.”

The latest dishwashers also score top marks for convenience. You’ll find Miele machines with automatic load recognition that assesses the load’s size and dirtiness and adjusts water and energy consumption to suit, as well as wifi connectivity so you can track the machine’s progress from your smartphone or tablet. Some models also have an auto-dosing function that delivers optimal detergent from a disc that lasts 30 to 40 washes to reduce wastage.

Are dishwashers energy efficient?

Many people still don’t believe that using a dishwasher is more efficient than hand-washing, but it’s true. To wash 12 place settings by hand, you would use about 75 litres of water. Some machines can wash 15-place settings with as little as 12.8 litres of water.

With the technological advances in dishwashers over the last few years, there have also been significant advances in water and energy efficiency too. “You can now run a load on as little as 10 litres of water compared with 20 litres 10 years ago – generally less than you’d use to wash dishes by hand,” says Brown.

To compare the water and energy efficiency of different dishwashers, look for the model’s WELS and energy star rating

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The “halfway” happened to be a Cape Dutch aesthetic, a style of architecture prevalent in South Africa where the owners are from. “The wife liked clean lines,” says Al. “The husband was more relaxed in his approach, so we created something that’s very grounded and earthy, with really sophisticated detailing to satisfy both.”

The couple had some existing floorplans by a previous architect. While the structural parameters had largely been set, Al and Constance worked from the “inside out”, to first shuffle the internal spaces and then refine the architecture with the help of builders Critharis who had worked on a number of projects in the same street.

Along with interior designer Kristin Rawson, Al and Constance were careful not to veer into beachy territory. While the palette is muted and some finishes coarse, it’s not too raw. “It’s imperfect without looking too organic,” says Al.

This was achieved through crisp silhouettes executed in pale colours and natural materials. Think terracotta tiling, European oak, smooth plaster and limestone flooring with a bush-hammered finish. The ‘drunken’ rendered facade is an intentionally irregular application, a feature that captures the everchanging qualities of light as they shift during the day.

“We love the light and energy of the house,” says one of the owners. “The high ceilings combined with the aspect is the perfect combination, it’s both calming and vibrant. It feels spacious but cosy at the same time. There are so many opportunities to display our pot collection, French urns, olive jars and other ceramics. All the open shelving creates such warmth and visual interest.”

THIS IS THE LIFE

A study and games room sit opposite one another at the entrance before a generous foyer. These spaces were intended to be defined and separate.

Furnished in tangerine and apricot tones, the dedicated living room with a fireplace doubles as a social area to welcome guests and as a quiet, tech-free space for the family. “It’s like a ‘contemporary parlour’,” says Al.

A 3.6-metre arched corridor leading to the living, dining and kitchen has been inserted into the body of the building. Rather than just a structural opening, it’s like a “portal that gently draws you towards the open-plan rear”, says Will Critharis, managing director of Critharis. “It’s like a big reveal.” The arched motif is echoed throughout the house on in-built shelving.

The kitchen opens onto a covered balcony pergola made from rafters and bamboo — a feature reminiscent of Cape Dutch design. From here, there’s a view to a serene garden by Nicholas Hosking Studio, with a pool and fire pit. Big entertainers, the owners wanted a yard that could easily accommodate outdoor parties.

On the first floor, the bedrooms are “to-the-point but also warm”, explains Al. At the base of the landing are two bathrooms and three bedrooms, while the remainder of the floor is dedicated to the main bedroom, ensuite and his and her walk-in robes. The self-contained basement features a gym, rec area and kitchenette.

Lighting throughout the house was designed to be soft and indirect. LEDs are tucked into display shelving to illuminate the owners’ collection of vessels, tiny wall lights sit gently near the base of the stair treads and up-lights are hidden within ceiling coffers of the smooth timber-lined ceilings.

Streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows and flooding through the stairwell, natural light washes the house, too. “The idea,” says Constance, “was to create as much stillness as possible.”

Studio AC & Co: ac-co.com.au

Critharis: critharis.com

Kristin Rawson: kristinrawsoninteriordesign.com

Nicholas Hosking Studio: lily-lizard.squarespace.com

The Design Team

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In its 26th year, the competition celebrates interior design innovation, featuring beautiful rooms in a diverse range of categories. We are looking for projects that display an outstanding commitment to quality, creativity and functional design.

2024 AWARD CATEGORIES

● Best Kitchen
● Best Bathroom
● Best Indoor-Outdoor Connection
● Best Bedroom
● Best Use of Materials
● Best Use of Soft Furnishings
● Best Laundry
● Best Use of Colour
● Rising Star
● Readers’ Choice

How to enter

You will find the entry forms and guidelines for submissions below. A fee of $50+GST per entry applies (you may enter multiple categories — a $50+GST fee will apply to each entry).

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

For further details, email houseandgardentop50rooms@aremedia.com.au or call (02) 9282 8455.

Entries close Friday, July 19, 2024, with Top 50 Rooms to appear in the October 2024 issue of Australian House & Garden.

Read the full Terms & Conditions here.

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October 19, 2023

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By Anson Smart

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When I first started gardening, I identified with English and French formal gardens and their clean, orderly lines, with endless topiary and pleached hedging with one or two flower types. The gardeners I spoke to always talked about pests and diseases affecting their plants. That was until I had the privilege of visiting King Charles’s Highgrove Gardens, where diversity, sustainability and organic gardening were pioneered long before fashionable.

While I still absolutely love that formal style of garden, I now understand that you can have lovely clean lines (as we do at Rosedale Farm) with mountains of diversity that require less human interference.

Why is plant diversity important for a garden?

A diverse garden is more resilient to challenges such as climate, pests and diseases. By adding a couple of bird boxes to encourage the wrens and finches, you could help reduce the mosquitoes, flies and spiders around your home as they love to feast on these insects. And even in the smallest garden, you could have native stingless bees, which happily live in a shoebox-sized house and will become an endless source of interest.

You will also have noticed in your own garden that different plant species have different levels of resistance to diseases, pests, and environmental stressors.

Rosedale Farm’s diverse garden

People are always surprised that in our one-acre vegetable garden, filled with more than 170 different flowers, fruit trees, vegetables and roses, we don’t spray or use chemicals. This diversity in turn helps control pests, and increase pollination and overall ecosystem health. For example, I used to plant an entire bed with corn, but now we have corn in the centre, basil around the corn, and dahlias, zinnias and marigolds at the ends.

I have a formal hedged garden, with roses, catnip, dahlias, lavender, wisteria, sage and zinnias, then five metres away, the tall golden grasses of a paddock that create refuge for quail, finches and small lizards.

How to increase diversity in your garden

For a garden lover such as myself, a diverse garden with plants in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes can be far more visually appealing and create a more interesting, vibrant space, not to mention be far less maintenance. You may even choose to break the garden up into different areas or zones with a variety of plantings.

● Start by adding new plant varieties to your garden.
● Consider installing a bird box to attract insect-loving birds.
● Install an insect hotel or a native stingless beehive to add new life and interest into your environment.
● Place shallow dishes of water in the garden to encourage wildlife.
● If you are growing vegetables, make sure you plant flowers nearby.

So when you are next at your garden centre, consider selecting plants you don’t already have and, even better, plants that attract birds and insects.

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Sarah is the founding director of Wild Orchid Spaces, specialising in the development of high-end turnkey properties, with each home a lifestyle experience drawn from Sarah’s affinity for nature. It was in 2012 that Sarah turned her creative hand to designing two weatherboard cottages set on a generous 7300sqm block, seeing their potential for her young family, which includes her husband and two children.

“The main thing that drew us to that block is that it’s very private and very big for the area,” says Sarah. “It’s always about the landscape for me when I buy a place.”

Starting in 2012, a knockdown-rebuild took four years to complete. Sarah oversaw the process as the interior designer and created the architectural concepts with River Run Design (now retired) and Bacuss Constructions. The two cottages were structurally sound but impractical for family life, having low ceilings, a closed-plan layout and little connection to the environment.

The result is two residences, the coastal bungalow and guesthouse, ‘Little Lokahi’, and the main beach house, ‘Lokahi’, comprising three bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a spacious indoor-outdoor living area.

At the top of the list for Sarah for the main residence was a fluid transition to the outdoors, while drawing the environment in. This was achieved by a considered palette of natural stone, large-scale glass doors, and an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, with an extended outdoor room beside the pool.

The only challenge was the established palm trees, which stood in the way of the new outdoor living zone. But Sarah came up with an ingenious solution.

“The existing palms were very much incorporated into the design of the property, to the extent that I put the trunks through the roof,” says Sarah. Roof openings one metre and a half wide were reinforced with circular steel rings to accommodate the palm trees that grow in the original pool, which now sits beneath the outdoor living area and is used as a rainwater tank.

“My favourite room has always been this open-plan kitchen, living, dining, as you feel connected to the pool, the landscape and nature.”

SARAH PARRY-OKEDON, INTERIOR DESIGNER

The pool and outdoor room are flanked by sliding glass doors, which, when open to the indoor living zone where the family spends most of their time, give the space a sense of not having any walls. “What I focused on was making the kitchen, living, and dining at least half of the house because I believe they really are the heart of the home,” says Sarah.

“I made our children’s bedrooms quite small because I wanted them to be [spending their time] out with us.”

The original four-bedroom layout located on the opposite wing was restructured into three, including the main bedroom with an ensuite and retreat area with impressive treetop views. Although the children’s bedrooms are modest in size, no space feels confined when it has eight-metre-high, gabled ceilings and Velux electric skylights maximising the natural light.

Sarah’s interior style is very much sensorial, with a material palette of sandstone balanced with soft furnishings for textural depth and charm. A rough sandstone-block wall greets visitors in the foyer, while waves of Champagne Onyx stone extend floor to ceiling in the kitchen above ‘Vogue’ honed sandstone floor tiles.

High-pile rugs feel plush under foot, neatly delineating the living zones, alongside custom and vintage furniture by Wild Orchid Spaces as part of their interior collection. “I have the ability to be a one-stop shop for a client where I do the interior finishes and furniture,” says Sarah. “That’s what I love, because they’re pieces from all over the world that have been refurbished and repurposed.”

The theme continues outdoors with a daybed with a vintage teak base, while the pool, complete with a Bali thatch hut, is inlaid with Sukabumi stone tiles for mineral healing. To highlight the natural materials, the colour scheme was purposefully restrained to white with a subtle warm undertone.

Soaking up the tropical atmosphere is a pleasure for Sarah and her family, who love the garden-centred home. “It’s quite an extraordinary place,” she says. “It very much intertwines with nature and the energy of the land.”

Sarah and her family love the open-plan living area, both in summer and winter. “We spend 95 per cent of our time here,” she says. “It’s very much a beautiful summer home with the pool, but winter is gorgeous. We have a back-to-back fireplace in the interior and exterior living room, and the underfloor heating beneath the stone makes it feel warm and cosy.”

THIS IS THE LIFE

Wild Orchid Spaces: wildorchidspaces.com.

Bacuss Constructions: bacuss.com.au.

River Run Design.

Eye Candy Painting & Decorating: eyecandypainting.com.au.

The Design Team

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Plants can bring new dimensions to your garden in the form of striking foliage colours and textures, particularly natives, of which there are an estimated 24,000 different species! Here, we look at seven versatile and tolerant natives that will bring colour and depth into your garden in different, intriguing ways.

1. Syzygium ‘Big Red’

The ‘Big Red’ is a great medium-sized lillypilly. Its glossy deep red new growth really sets off the plant with the tips having a dark crimson glow about them. This variety is fast growing and makes the perfect hedge specimen – great for screening the neighbours or hiding the shed. You can trim it to any shape you like and it is also widely used as topiary specimen.

2. Acacia ‘Limelight’

The Acacia ‘Limelight‘ is famed for its lush, lime green foliage and compact shape, and is the perfect plant if you want to add some wow factor to your garden.

This ornamental beauty won the country over after it was introduced to the market by plant gurus Native Plant Wholesalers in South Australia. It’s remained Australia’s best-selling Acacia cognata variety ever since. Limelight is compact and dense and great for both modern and traditional gardens.

3. Coastal tea tree

Coastal tea tree (Leptospermum laevigatum) can really be considered the native answer to low hedging and is a fantastic alternative to the traditional English Box hedge. With outstanding resilience to the harshest of coastal conditions, the coastal tea tree tolerates salt sprays and salt-laden winds. It has great grey-green foliage and bronze-coloured new growth.

This plant is a great solution for coastal areas, poolside gardens and narrow spaces.

4. Grevillea ‘Fire Cracker’

If you’re after flowers during winter to add a dash of interest, there are some great low-growing natives available. Grevillea ‘Fire Cracker’ has a compact, rounded habit with small evergreen leaves.

Firecracker boasts an extensive flowering period, typically coming into bloom in late April through until October. The explosion of fiery red and yellow flowers makes a stunning show over a long period.

5. Grevillea ‘Deua Gold’

‘Deua Gold’ is another bright beauty worth adding to your garden. Its rich gold flowers adorn the plant for most of the year, but it really peaks over the winter months.

Named for its origins near the Deua National Park in New South Wales, ‘Deua Gold’ is a superb performer in tough landscape conditions.

6. Heath-leaved banksia

Arguably the most beautiful variety, heath-leaved banksia (Banksia ericifolia) flowers in autumn and winter with a striking bright orange-red colour and long lantern shape.

Heathery foliage is frost and salt-spray tolerant, growing in Central and Northern New South Wales, east of the Great Dividing Range. Along with having large flower heads, the heath-leaved banksia can also grow to around six metres tall, adding height and texture to your garden.

7. Silver princess eucalyptus

If you want to add a point of drama to your garden, silver princess eucalyptus (Eucalyptus caesia) is a fantastic medium-sized evergreen tree perfectly suited to the task. The shimmering foliage and weeping habit make it a striking addition to any garden. Dramatic pink-red blooms appear from May and last through to September, and will attract native birds and beneficial insects to the garden.

The tree, which can grow up to six metres in height, is also drought-tolerant and frost-resistant, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Can you plant Australian natives in winter?

Yes, you can plant your natives in winter. According to Australian Native Nursery, planting natives is best done in the cooler months, from autumn through to early spring, thanks to milder conditions and higher rainfall. Being mostly evergreen plants, natives will continue to grow throughout the seasons, and can even be planted in summer provided you water them regularly.

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The couple was drawn to the area’s amenities and sense of community. This terrace boasted two additional bonuses, however: it had only one party wall, with the entry on the opposing side opening directly onto a park with a majestic gum tree. And, fortuitously, a previous renovation had added an attic bedroom, creating three levels and four bedrooms all up.

“And it had its original features, including cornicing, ceiling roses, high ceilings and two French doors at the front, wonderfully preserved,” says Marc.

But, being at the end of a block also posed a challenge – rather than a rectangular footprint, this house was on a wedge-shaped site, tapering from the front to the rear, resulting in some awkwardly shaped rooms.

There was also a scant connection to the rear courtyard, with a bathroom and laundry clumsily placed between it and the kitchen. That kitchen connected to a side breezeway through just one door, the only rear access.

Marc and Kirsty were keen to make better use of the tight site, to let in more light and to ensure a seamless connection inside and out. “We wanted to maintain the integrity of the front, while adding an ultra-modern back, with bare concrete floors and stainless steel for a raw look,” says Kirsty.

“We wanted to maintain the integrity of the front, while adding an ultra-modern back, with bare concrete floors and stainless steel for a raw look.”

KIRSTY, OWNER

On their real-estate agent’s recommendation, they hired Modify, a design and construction company, with director Jen Humphry and creative director Jeremy Unger masterminding the job. Accordingly, the duo’s design sliced off the old addition and replaced it with something more contemporary, featuring steel-framed bifolds opening to the backyard and an enlarged kitchen swallowing up the side breezeway and running right to the party wall.

Above the kitchen, a massive skylight more than six metres long runs the length of the room, ensuring light throughout the day. “This is incredibly light for a terrace,” says Kirsty.

Above the open-plan addition, a lush rooftop hanging garden, with prostrate rosemary cascading down the sides, blends inside and out and links the terrace visually with the neighbouring park.

During the day, Kirsty and Marc make the most of the east-facing new addition, which is bathed in sunshine. Come night-time, they move to the living room in the original west-facing section overlooking the street. In summer, they while away the evenings sitting on the terrace with a drink and watch the world go by. “There’s a great sense of community, here,” says Marc.

THIS IS THE LIFE

Meanwhile, the link between the front and back sections of the house has been shifted, creating space for one of Kirsty’s favourite features, a dark and moody powder room, contrasting dramatically with the breezy palette running through the rest of the house.

Modify addressed the awkward wedge-shaped plan by placing amenities, such as the powder room and a bank of joinery, along the angled wall. And moving the laundry upstairs beside the family bathroom freed up the downstairs.

“While Marc and Kirsty asked to use every square inch of the wedge to make the spaces feel generous, the irregular shape certainly added complexity,” says Jeremy. “And, while they specified a light, contemporary addition juxtaposed with a grand terrace, it’s not entirely contemporary. The curves are within a traditional form, adding softness where most terraces are quite angular.” And a sash window on the upper story harks back to the past.

Materials include the concrete slab, with the steel-framed doors the perfect complement, says Jeremy. “They work so well with the concrete floor and avoid chunkiness.” Painted timber veneer joinery adds another textural layer, with stainless steel benches a slick counterpoint.

The home has also become the perfect backdrop to Marc and Kirsty’s prized art collection, which also provided the inspiration for the palette. For example, the rug and sofa in the open-plan zone echo the artwork above. As with their art, much of the couple’s furniture came with them, heavily edited to make it fit into the home.

And the final touch, their own personal artwork: while the concrete was setting, five leaves from the neighbouring gum landed on the slab. Somehow, they just felt right, so Marc and Kirsty left their imprints for posterity.

Modify: modify.com.au
Myles Baldwin Design: mylesbaldwin.com.

The Design Team

The post Inside a transformed inner-Sydney terrace where contemporary additions beget light appeared first on Homes To Love.

The citrus gall wasp is an insect native to some regions in Queensland and NSW, where it produces lumpy galls around developing larvae on the branches of citrus trees, These galls affect the fruit size, weaken the tree and causes branches to die. It is mainly found on grapefruit branches, but can also strike lemons, oranges and limes.

This native pest is of increasing concern to gardeners, as it’s becoming more common. Once only found along the east coast of Australia, and only in the Australian finger lime, it has now spread to gardens in Melbourne and other parts of Victoria and adapted to other citrus varieties.

How to tell if you have citrus gall wasps?

You will rarely see a citrus gall wasp, but if the stems or twigs of your backyard citrus are looking engorged and lumpy, your plants could be harbouring this pest.

What damage do gall wasps do?

Citrus gall wasps burrow into the branches on citrus trees and form lumps on the stem, known as galls, as the larvae burrow into twigs to feed. The larvae hatch from eggs laid just under the surface of the bark on new spring growth. After hatching, larvae burrow further into the bark to begin feeding, triggering the twigs they are in to form the telltale galls.

The insects remain in the galls after feeding and pupating over winter. At the end of winter or in early spring adult wasps emerge to mate and lay more eggs so the life cycle starts all over again.

Small holes in galls are a sign the wasp has emerged from its winter home. If the galls are intact and have no holes, the pupating wasp is still inside.

The damage is not fatal but it’s certainly ugly, and severe infestations can lead to dieback and loss of production. A severely infested tree can have hundreds of galls and each gall harbours many insects.

What plants are susceptible to citrus gall wasps?

Grapefruit trees are particularly susceptible to citrus gall wasps but they are also found on lemon, orange and native lime. It is less likely to attack mandarins.

How do you get rid of gall wasps?

The best method of treatment for removing galls is to cut the branch in question off the tree before the wasp emerges. As the larvae are within plant tissue, it is very hard to control them using chemicals. Indeed the main control method is to cut off the galls before the wasp emerges, which should then be placed into a bag, sealed and put into the rubbish.

Reducing the number of adult wasps in your garden not only makes it a more pleasant place to be, it will also reduce next season’s infestation.

It’s also important to feed, water and mulch your citrus, and keep it free of weeds.

How to care for citrus trees

As well as combating citrus gall wasps by removing galls, it is important to keep citrus trees well nourished. Feed them with citrus food, remove weeds and lawn from around the tree and then water the ground well.

To reduce weeds and to keep the soil moist, cover the area with a 5cm layer of organic mulch, compost or aged manure (or a mix of all three). Don’t allow the mulch to build up around the trunk.

It is important to water citrus trees regularly, particularly while they are flowering and forming their fruit. Deeply watering trees once a week in spring and summer ensures a good crop.

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Blinds tend to be one of the most popular options because they’re affordable, come in a range of styles and fabrics, and suit a wide variety of needs, whether that’s blocking out light and heat or providing privacy. But there are plenty of options on the market, and knowing where to start looking is half the battle.

“Window covering solutions help manage light, heat and energy at the building envelope, reducing the need for artificial lighting, cooling and heating.” says Managing Director, Residential Division, Steve Saboune, Hunter Douglas Australia.

2024 marks 70 years since Luxaflex, the worldwide leading brand in window coverings, was introduced into the Australian market. “This year is a very special year for Hunter Douglas, as we celebrate 70 years since launching the Luxaflex brand in Australia,” says Steve. “To this day, we continue to expand the Australian product range of custom-made blinds, shutters and awnings, some of which are certified Australian Made, combining the best of international and local innovations.”

As with many things in our home, it’s important to not only weigh-up what it will look like, but also the function your window blinds will serve. Hot tip: don’t forget that you can sometimes see window blinds from the outside too!  To help you decide whether you’d rather Roman blinds or a Plantation shutter, we’ve put together the ultimate guide for choosing the right window coverings for your space. 

The best types of window blinds

Roller blinds

By far one of the most popular window coverings, roller blinds provide an easy up-and-down motion, which lets you flood your space with natural light or block it out as needed. They are usually fitted inside a window reveal or casement and suit the modern, mess-free aesthetic. 

There are a few different fabric types to choose from with roller blinds. Transparent blinds — like unlined linen — are sheer and allow you to have a clear view outside during the day, while those outside can’t see in easily. But take note, at night time when the lights are on inside the opposite happens, so it’s common for people to use a ‘dual blind’. 

Translucent blinds — often made from a polyester or blend — are light filtering but as you can’t see through them, so they provide more privacy throughout the day and night. Alternatively, BlockOut blinds have a solid backing and offer total privacy. They block out all light so they’re great for bedrooms, and also help keep out or retain heat. 

Honeycomb blinds

Honeycomb blinds, also known as cellular shades, have gained immense popularity in homes due to their blend of practicality, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. One of their primary draws lies in their energy efficiency. Luxaflex® Duette® Shades is the most energy-efficient window covering on the Australian market. With superior insulation properties, the unique honeycomb structure traps air to keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Their sleek and modern appearance adds a touch of sophistication to any space, complementing various interior styles. Additionally, they come in a wide range of colours, textures, and opacities, making it easy for homeowners to find the perfect match for their decor preferences.

Venetian blinds

Enjoying a recent resurgence, the humble Venetian blind has a clean horizontal blade that now comes in a more sleek profile and choice of narrow or wider blades. Venetian blinds can also work in every room of the house. PVC and aluminium designs are a practical option for wet areas, while timber Venetian blinds are a cost-effective alternative to plantation shutters while still providing that popular horizontal-blade look.

Plantation shutters

Plantation shutters offer a blend of timeless elegance and practicality, making them an excellent choice of window covering. Their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any room while providing exceptional light control, privacy and insulation. Unlike traditional curtains or blinds, Plantation shutters are durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas of the home. 

Additionally, their adjustable louvers allow full control over the amount of light entering a room.

Vertical blinds

Hanging from the top on a slide-out track, vertical blinds are actually quite practical as the blades can be angled to provide privacy when allowing light to penetrate. Modern designs don’t have problems with their beading like older styles do, as instead there’s generally a weight in the base of each vertical blade, which makes them sit and look better than earlier designs. 

Roman blinds

Made from fabric, Roman blinds fold up in wide horizontal panels, pulled by cords on one side. They are a popular choice to soften the look of a window and room overall. Often paired with curtains, Roman blinds provide insulation and work well in cooler climates. 

The variety of fabrics you can use also provides endless options, including matching patterns and designs to your bedding or soft furnishings. There are also many designs in lightweight sheer fabrics, such as cotton, linen and hemp, which are a perfect choice for coastal-style homes. 

Roman blinds are convenient because you can precisely adjust the amount of light entering a room at any time of the day, as well as helping to keep sound levels down in busy households (depending on your choice of fabric). 

The post How to choose the best window blinds from the most popular options on the market appeared first on Homes To Love.

“Ground covers are often overlooked, but they play an essential role in any garden design,” says Ruth Czermak, principal landscape architect at Botanical Traditions.

Here, we ask four leading landscape designers for their advice and insights on all things relating to ground covers.

What are ground cover plants?

Ground covers are plants that are less than about 30cm tall. They can be annuals, trailing climbers, herbaceous perennials, strappy-leafed plants, ferns, grasses, flowering, and even edible plants.

Most popular ground cover plants

“Myoporum parvifolium (creeping boobialla) is a reliable ground cover plant suitable for most types of garden,” says Linda Green, principal at Hidcote Landscapes.

“In a tropical-style garden, where it might receive quite a lot of water, it forms a lush, green carpet, but when used in a native garden, it toughens up and hugs the ground. It has small, white flowers and contrasts with more colourful ground covers like Scaevola (fan flower).”

“Trachelospermum asiaticum (Japanese star jasmine) is a reliable, flowering ground cover for most gardens,” says Joanne Green, landscape designer at Joanne Green Landscape.

“Its flowers are yellowish-white and fragrant. It’s non-invasive and handles a range of light levels, which is convenient.”

Shade-loving ground cover plants Australia

Creating lush gardens in shaded areas can be a challenge, however there are plenty of ground covers that are suitable for shady areas. From the hardy shade-loving Ajuga, or bugle, with its crinkled purple and blue flowers, to resilient Liriope, with its green strappy leaves, there’s a ground cover for every type of garden, no matter the level of sun exposure.

Sun-loving ground cover plants for dry areas

“A fantastic ground cover in all but the hottest and driest areas is Viola hederacea (native violet). It can be variable, growing to about 10cm tall in lightly shaded, moist areas, but is far more ground-hugging in hotter, dryer areas,” says Ruth Czermak.

“A good groundcover for dry, sunny areas is Chrysocephalum apiculatum (yellow buttons). This has grey/silver leaves and masses of bright yellow flowers for about nine months of the year.”

“If you have a difficult sloping garden and are looking for a mounding ground cover to cover it in a short period of time then Hardenbergia violacea ‘Mini Haha’, and ‘Meema’ are two good choices, although they can be short lived,” says Ruth Czermak.

“For an intense splash of colour the Anigozanthos flavidus (yellow kangaroo paw) hybrids are tough, reliable and spectacular where they will not get water-logged. They look great against stonework or Corten steel.”

Ground cover plants for subtropical and tropical climates

Subtropical and tropical climates are blessed with a much greater biodiversity in plants than the southern states. For ground covers Arno King, director at Arno King Landscape Architects, recommends:

• Summer love (Acalypha chamaedrifolia), a deep-green plant covered with red catkins.
• Creeping gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides ‘Radicans’), with deep green leaves and white, waxy, perfumed flowers.
• Storm lily (Zephyranthes candida), a small bulb covered with white crocus-like flowers throughout the wet months.
• Temple grass(Zoysia tenuifolia), an undulating mossy grass.

Best spreading perennials ground cover plants

The best ground cover plants are the ones that spread by themselves, naturally increasing their coverage area over the ground every year. They spread by various means: via underground stolons (like grass); by roots forming along their stems as they grow; or by simply growing bigger. You can often split off sections of them and move them to other areas of your garden, giving you lots of new plants for free.

In cool and temperate regions, campanula, geranium, heuchera and tiarella are great choices. They all form dense mounds of leaves.

Sutera (Sutera cordata) is a creeping perennial with bright green leaves and white flowers all year in warm climates. Snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum), which has silver woolly leaves and white flowers in spring and early summer, is another favourite.

One of the most popular silver-leaved perennials is Lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina). It works well as a low border or ornamental ground cover.

Running postman (Kennedia prostrata) is also drought tolerant, and creeps across the ground, forming a mat up to 2m wide. It grows in well-drained soils in full sun or semi-shade.

Best low maintenance ground cover Australia

When it comes to Australian climates, there are a number of ground cover plants are suitable suitable for Australian landscapes. Of note, Myoporum parvifolium (Creeping Boobialla) is often praised for being relatively low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, fast-growing and adaptable to different conditions. Trachelospermum asiaticum (Japanese Star Jasmine) is another low-maintenance option, while benefitting from twice-yearly feeds and regular watering, they are able to adapt to various growing conditions with minimal care. In shaded areas, Viola hederacea (Native Violet) is a low maintenance ground cover that benefits from little care, and in dry, sunny areas, Chrysocephalum apiculatum (Yellow Buttons) emerge as a top contender.

Best climbing ground cover plants

Many climbing plants can serve as ground covers. The thing to watch for with climbers is that they will start heading up anything they come across. Keep them in check by regularly clipping off any wandering tendrils looking to climb.

Several cultivars that stay low-growing and spreading, such as ‘Flat White’, ‘Carpet Royale’ and ‘Meema’, have been released over the past couple of years. Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is another goodie, with its highly scented white flowers on show from October to December.

The kangaroo vine (Cissus antarctica) is an excellent choice to cover large areas of shade beneath trees. This native climber has bright green, heart-shaped leaves and attractive bronze new growth. It prefers moist soil that’s had lots of organic matter incorporated into it.

Best small shrub ground cover plants

There are many low-growing shrubs that do a great job of covering the soil. Gardenia radicans is a smaller version of the much-loved florist’s gardenia, but it still has the deliciously scented white flowers.

Evolvulus (Evolvulus glomeratus) thrives in well-drained soil in full sun. It forms a dense mound of slightly furry leaves, and its brilliant blue flowers appear from spring to autumn.

Coral plant (Russelia equisetiformis) is one plant that should be used more. It has arching, weeping stems with masses of red, tubular flowers all year round. It’s a brilliant choice for spilling over a wall or bank.

There is a huge choice of low-growing native shrubs to choose from. There are a few prostrate grevilleas available, including ‘Fire Cracker’, a new cultivar that has soft leaves instead of spiky ones. It’s also hard to go past old favourites ‘Bronze Rambler’ and ‘Poorinda Royal Mantle’, which can form dense mats up to 4m across.

Also keep an eye out for ‘Mundi’, which is a new cultivar of Westringia fruticosa. It has all the usual toughness of a westringia but it naturally grows to no more than knee height and spreads about 1.5m wide.

How to grow ground cover plants

A little preparation will result in healthier, faster-growing ground cover plants and less weeding work in the long term. Here’s a quick guide:

• Eliminate weeds first, by hand digging or spot spraying with a weedkiller. Then turn over the soil, water it and wait for the next crop to emerge, as most weeds need more than one go.
• For persistent weeds such as onion weed and oxalis, lay thick sheets of newspaper over soil after planting and before mulching.
• Mulch around plants to cover bare soil until they spread.
• Improve the soil by adding compost, manures, worm castings or other organic matter, plus some slow-release, organic-based fertiliser. For sandy soils, add a soil wetting agent.

What is the most hardy ground cover plant?

Some of the most hardy ground cover plants you can plant include Myoporum parvifolium (Creeping Boobialla) and Stachys byzantina (Lamb’s Ear) are a particularly fast-growing, hardy ground cover plants offer resilience and adaptability to different environmental conditions and thrives in both sun, shade and and poor soil. Drought tolerant and fast growing, these are a tolerant options for more touch-and-go areas of the garden. 

What are the disadvantages of ground cover plants?

Ground cover plants have many advantages, but before you plant them in your garden it is important to note that there can be some downsides to consider first. Ground covers, by nature, can spread quickly and can easily get out of control. When this happens, there is a chance that they’ll invade nearby garden beds and can even choke other plants in some cases. They can also compete with nearby plants, taking nutrients and water from the soil.

This also means often they require quite a lot of maintenance to keep them under control — whether that be consistent pruning, trimming or thinning. But this is not always the case, and for the most part, ground cover plants make for a beautiful addition to your garden.

The post A guide to ground cover plants: The best varieties for sun and shade appeared first on Homes To Love.

Luckily, it didn’t take long to find.

This three-bedroom, three-bathroom Californian bungalow in a quiet cul-de-sac in Sydney’s Lower North Shore, ticked every box. Granted, it needed a bit of work, but its potential was clear.

“The facade gave off ‘cute as a button’ cottage vibes and was surrounded by established gardens,” says Christine. “The front part of the house had good bones and charming original features, including Art Deco leadlight windows and high, ornate ceilings.

We also liked the fact it had two living rooms. With many young families on the street and zero traffic, we could envisage our son riding his bike and playing on the street safely with friends, too.”

“They wanted the house to be inviting but with the sense of luxury you’d find in a hotel in London or Paris.”

SAMANTHA WINOKUR, INTERIOR ARCHITECT

Having never renovated before and keen to push themselves beyond “white/grey/black everything”, the couple decided to call in some expert help.

Samantha Winokur and Jodie Gillman, co-directors at Designed by JAM, were recommended by another interior designer, who felt their design style would be a good match for the couple’s “European holiday, hotel-vibe” vision.

“Christine and Ben wanted the house to be warm and inviting, but with the sense of luxury you’d find in a hotel in London, Paris or Positano,” says Samantha.

“They wanted beautiful and robust pieces the family could use and enjoy for years, and the space and functionality to entertain. The scheme also needed to feel cohesive.”

The first challenge: addressing the light, layout and flow. “The house was liveable, but crying out for some love,” says Jodie. “The front part was dark and had a poky hallway, and probably hadn’t ever been renovated beyond a lick of paint.”

“The 1990s rear addition, which contained the kitchen, dining room and second living area, was seriously lacking in character. The two parts felt like separate houses. There were some structural issues too, such as huge gaps in the front portion where the walls and floors didn’t meet.”

To stay within the budget, the duo needed to find clever design solutions that wouldn’t cost the earth. Building up the floor by laying a new one over the existing time-worn boards resolved the gappiness issue. And removing a bulkhead and a section of wall in the hallway flooded the area with light and provided an unobstructed view to the back of the house, so the old and new parts felt more connected.

Leafy and quiet, yet an easy commute to the city, the owners have found their ‘forever suburb’. “We’ve become great friends with the neighbours. New Year’s Eve was supposed to be a quiet one at home, but we ended up going to a neighbour’s place for pizzas and champagne, then took a bus to the nearby fireworks. It’s a wonderful place to create memories.”

THIS IS THE LIFE

Being passionate foodies, getting the kitchen right was a priority for Christine and Ben. The original, dated kitchen made way for a new, contemporary cooking space, with a statement island in inky blue at its heart.

Thoughtful touches – such as a thick Carrara marble benchtop with a soft, curved profile, and a stainless-steel footrail where visitors can rest their feet – create the ultimate gathering space for friends and family.

Rounding out the renovation, Samantha and Jodie reworked the home’s three bathrooms to bring them up to date, installed custom joinery throughout to solve the couple’s storage woes, and added beautiful fireplaces in the two living rooms to create the warm and cosy living spaces the owners dreamed of.

“We love the end result – the house feels wonderful to be in and we use every corner of it, whether it’s relaxing in the family room, spending time around the kitchen island or enjoying afternoon drinks on the deck,” says Christine.

“We know we’ll have many happy years here.”

Designed by JAM: dbjam.com.au
Republic Building Co: republicbuildingco.com.au

The Design Team

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Yellow is the colour that springs to mind when we think of daffodils but there are varieties with white, cream, orange and pink petals and trumpets (the central corona), as well as doubles and miniature types. All have beautiful perfume. Early-, mid- and late-season types spread the flowering period from June to October. In cool climates they’ll ‘naturalise’: multiply by themselves when left in the ground.

How to plant daffodil bulbs

• Feed: Fertilise lightly with a bulb fertiliser when planting and also after flowering.
• Design: Daffodils look best when they are planted in clumps rather than in rows. The larger the clump, the better the effect. Planting them in groups of the same colour will create a pretty swathe of colour.
• Pests: To keep snails and slugs at bay it is a good idea to use a little snail bait or beer traps regularly during growing season.
• Store: Daffodils can remain undisturbed for many years. But, if digging is preferred, wait until the leaves have died right down and store in a cool, dry, ventilated place.
• Water: Natural rainfall should suffice. Keep daffodil bulbs moist during dry spells in autumn and late spring.

If blooming does not happen one season, it is best to move daffodil bulbs to a new location.

Top Tip!

When to plant daffodil bulbs in Australia

The best time to plant daffodil bulbs is during autumn, where they can lay dormant in the ground during the cooler season and resurface in spring. Cooler regions like Melbourne and other southern regions should plant daffodil bulbs at the beginning of autumn in March and April, whereas warmer regions like Brisbane can wait until May.

Do daffodil bulbs need to be chilled?

A common misconception, daffodil bulbs do not need to be chilled before they will bloom. All they require is to be planted in the lead up to winter where they will be able to naturally chill in the cool soil. When spring comes, you will be rewarded with a bounty of daffodil flowers, without any fuss.

Do daffodils grow in Australia?

Yes, daffodils grow well in Australia. Depending on your region’s climate, daffodils tend to flower from bulbs in late winter and early spring.

In warm climates, plant daffodil bulbs at double the recommended depth.

Top Tip!

See more how to grow

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Fresh ideas and easy updates

• New cushion covers are the simplest and cheapest way to update your bedroom or living area. Reuse existing inserts and make or buy covers in this season’s colours.
• If having a cover custom-made, consider details such as the skirts, seams, trims and piping to set your piece apart.
• Re-cover a mismatched pair of sofas or armchairs in the same fabric slipcover to create a harmonious look.
• Use two different fabrics for a bedhead slipcover and rotate front and back for a quick seasonal refresh.

The best furniture slipcovers in 2024

01

Venice 3 Seat Sofa Cover – Corinthian Cloud Grey

from $1399 at Lounge Lovers

This stylish removable sofa slipcover is the perfect way to stay on trend through the seasons. It offers a stylish linen blend and three colours to choose from. The Venice sofa slipcover matches the Venice 3 Seat Sofa.

Sizes: 2 Seat, 3 Seat, Ottoman and Chaise Lounge.

Colours: Corinthian White, Corinthian Cloud Grey, Corinthian Stone Grey.

Material: Polyester, Viscose and Linen,

Key features:

• Premium linen blend
• Option to customise
• 50% when you purchase a sofa

Shop now

02

Callie Slipcovered Dining Arm Chair

from $369 at Castlery

Tailored and removable, the Callie range with removable covers offers a breezy approach to dining. If any stains or marks arise, the slipcover can be easily removed and machine-washed.

Colour: Beach Linen.

Key features:

• Machine washable cover
• Curved backrest
• Stylist, modern design

Shop now

03

Removable Cover Set Natural Montauk Queen Bed

from $59.95 at Temple & Webster

The Removable Cover Set of the Montauk Queen Bed offers stylish versatility. Simply remove the cover on the bedhead and footboard for a complete style switch up. The bed slipcover comes with the Montauk Queen Bed.

Colours: Natural, Navy.

Material: 100% Polyester.

Key features:

• French seams and Velcro fastener designed for longevity
• Easy clean
• Easily matches any neutral aesthetic

Shop Now

04

Noosa Bed Head Cover

from $299 at James Lane

This stylish range of bed heads offer interchangeable luxury, with its 100% stonewashed Belgian linen. Simply switch out the bedhead cover for a new aesthetic. Cover matches the James Lane range of Noosa beds.

Sizes: Queen, King.

Colours: Charcoal, Oatmeal, Stone, Wheat, White.

Material: Stonewashed Belgian linen.

Key features:

• Comes in 5 shades
• Machine washable
• Stylish and neutral

Shop now

The post Most stylish furniture slipcover ideas to update your space with ease appeared first on Homes To Love.

Despite our best efforts to keep them clean, towels often develop a less-than-fresh smell. What you may be surprised to learn is that one of the main causes of this is actually detergent build-up. Over time, soap residue accumulates in the fibres of the towels, stopping them from absorbing as much water as possible, and from drying as well as they could.

Bacteria then starts to build up in the fabric, and, hey presto, you’ve got yourself mildewy, smelly towels in a pile of just-washed laundry. But the good news is, you can make your old towels feel as fluffy and fresh as new, with two ingredients: white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.

How do you wash towels to keep them smelling fresh?

1. Put your towels in the washing machine with a cup of white vinegar instead of washing detergent, then wash on a hot cycle.
2. When you hit the rinse cycle, add half a cup of bicarbonate of soda, and run as normal.
3. Remove your towels, and dry them thoroughly on the line or in the dryer.

Preventative measures to stop smelly towels after washing

• Always allow towels to dry thoroughly. Never leave them on the floor, and make sure your towel racks allow space for air to circulate. Using exhaust fans will stop the bathroom from becoming too humid for towels to dry properly.
• Better yet, invest in a heated towel rail if you can, to help speed up the drying process.
• Keep older towels for odd jobs – this includes drying your pets. The less you need to give them a heavy-duty wash, the less product build-up they’ll suffer.
• Stick to the recommended amount of laundry product, if not less.
• Give towels the white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda treatment every third or fourth wash as a matter of habit.
• Don’t use commercial fabric softeners on towels; they coat them with a thin layer of chemicals, making them less absorbent. White vinegar is a better (and cheaper) choice to soften and freshen them.

How often should you replace towels?

Like anything used daily, there will eventually come a time when you need to replace your towels, because let’s face it, no amount of white vinegar or detergent can cover up faded colour, pulled threads, and stiff, scratchy material. Depending on the quality, you can usually expect towels to last between two and five years before they should be replaced with a new set.

Here’s our guide to the best bath towels to shop.

What to shop to stop your towels from smelling

01

Cornell’s white vinegar 2L

$5, Woolworths

Costing less than a coffee for a whole two litres, stocking your pantry with white vinegar is a no-brainer. Often used in cooking, you can also use it to clean plenty of other things around the house, including your dishwasher, oven door, and more.

Key features:

• Naturally fermented
• Heaps of uses around the home
• Made in Australia

Shop Now

02

Mckenzie’s bi-carb soda 1kg

$3.95, Woolworths

Another cheap and cheerful ingredient you can pick up from your local supermarket. It’s yet another one that can also be used for cleaning several things around the house. For example, you can sprinkle some down the sink every now and then, and follow with hot water to blast away lingering smells.

Key features:

• Free of aluminium-based additives
• Used for cooking, cleaning and deodorising
• Non-toxic

Shop Now

03

Hydrotherm 10-bar swivel heated towel rail

from $1390, Temple & Webster

But by far the best solution is preventing the problem in the first place. Not letting your towels stay damp for too long is a great way, and for those who can warrant it, a heated towel rail is one of life’s greatest luxuries. This brushed nickel option has plenty of space for hanging, so the whole family’s towels will fit.

Key features:

• Comes in three finishes
• Swivel for convenient access
• Afterpay available

Shop Now

04

Lemon scented eucalyptus & rosemary essential oil laundry wash

from $17.95, Koala Eco

For those in between non-vinegar washes, nothing quite compares to this all-natural laundry detergent by Koala Eco. Made from two of nature’s most powerful antibacterial ingredients, this non-toxic solution is suitable for sensitive skin and achieves the same result, without the chemicals.

Key features:

• Natural and non-toxic
• Biodegradable & septic safe
• No synthetic fragrance

Shop Now

Read more cleaning tips and hacks

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So how do you achieve the perfect tree that’s glossy green, covered in perfumed white flowers each spring and laden with fruit in winter?

Here’s everything you need to know about how to grow citrus trees.

Where to plant citrus trees?

If you have full sun and good drainage, then you can grow citrus trees in any temperate part of Australia. In really cold areas such as Tasmania, the Snowy Mountains, and NSW Central Tablelands and New England regions, you may need to keep them in pots and bring them into a sheltered position in winter. Avoid exposing them to strong salt-laden winds too, as this will affect the ability of the citrus tree to grow lots of fruit from the blossom.

When should you plant citrus trees?

Plant citrus in autumn and spring, avoiding the heat of summer.

What is the best soil for citrus trees?

Dig the hole for your tree twice as wide as it is deep. Water-storing crystals can then be added. Remove the plant from its bag or pot and gently tease out the roots so they are orientated out in all directions. Cut off any that have started to spiral and are root-bound, as this will severely affect the growth of your tree. Place in the hole and backfill with soil.

Be careful not to bury the tree too deep, and don’t cover over the graft, as this can result in collar rot. The soil surrounding the tree should be level with the surrounding ground. Pat down soil gently with your foot to create a slightly firmer, lower well around the tree. This will help the water stay long enough to penetrate into the root zone before it runs off the surface.

Finally, water it really well, with at least two full 9L watering cans (if not more), to help get rid of any air pockets. Then mulch to a depth of about 10cm, being careful not to build up around the trunk. Continue watering every week (more on windy or very sunny days), until your citrus is through its first year. After this, watering every three weeks should be fine (if it hasn’t rained).

How to plant citrus in pots

If you want to grow your new citrus tree in a pot, use a quality premium standard mix and make sure the pot is at least 400mm wide and 400mm deep. An alternative to the traditional tree shape is to espalier the tree flat against a wall. Buy it like this or do it yourself by simply pruning off any outward growing branches.

How to care for citrus trees

• Citrus trees need regular watering and applications of fertiliser to do well.
• Air pollution can be another reason your tree isn’t fruiting, as young buds don’t like smog, so if the air quality is bad during this time, your citrus crop can suffer as a result.

• If your citrus is not fruiting, it’s probably due to a lack of sun or food. Citrus trees are known as gross feeders, meaning that they need regular applications of fertiliser.

How to manage pests on citrus trees

Citrus are prone to a few pests and diseases, so be vigilant. Look out for citrus leafminer, which causes distortion in the new growth. It can only be sprayed with an oil spray (white oil and pest oil) during the growing season, from late spring through to autumn – the spray makes the leaf surface slippery and undesirable. The spray is a natural pest control method and also deters aphids (which attack new growth), bronze orange bug (also known as stink bugs) and scale insects.

What is the best fertiliser for citrus trees

It’s recommended to fertilise with blood and bone, potash and well-rotted animal manures every three to four months, or a handful of garden lime each year.

• Eureka: Of all the lemon trees, Eureka is one of the best for the backyard. It crops all year so you can almost always find a fruit on the tree. It does best in warm areas.
• Meyer: The most cold-tolerant lemon tree, the Meyer produces quite sweet (low acid) orange-coloured lemons throughout the year. The best variety for pots.
• Lisbon: The Lisbon is a bitter lemon with high acid and lots of juice. The tree tends to have two main crops: a heavy one in autumn/winter and a light one in spring.
• Tahitian and West Indian lime: The top two limes are Tahitian and West Indian, with the latter having the most limey flavour. They love the tropics and subtropics and suffer in the cold.
• Desert lime: The fruit of the Australian native desert lime is narrow and finger-like with a green or flushed red colour. When cut, the juice cells fall out like fish roe.
• Kaffir lime: Kaffir lime is very popular for its fragrant leaves that are widely used in Asian cooking. The fruit, however, is wrinkled and has little juice.

Best types of citrus to grow in Australia

The post How to grow citrus trees and inject some zest into your garden appeared first on Homes To Love.

Here are the main reasons lemon trees develop yellow leaves and, most importantly, how to get them back to green and lush for a fruitful harvest.

Reasons your lemon tree leaves are turning yellow

Decoding what your plant is trying to tell you can be tricky, but if you address these common causes, you should be able to get your lemon tree back on track. And while older leaves may not return to green after applying these remedies, the yellow leaves should fall and allow for new green leaves in their place.

1. Not enough fertiliser

Lemons burn through lots of nutrients. When the tree runs out of nutrients its older leaves may become yellow. Applying a complete citrus food twice a year, aiming for mid-summer and late winter, should help your lemon tree get the growing power it needs.

Water well before and after applying fertiliser. Spread the fertiliser over the soil around the tree. Follow the application rates suggested on the container. The best way to provide all the nutrients citrus trees need is to use a complete citrus food.

2. Not enough iron

A lack of iron can also cause lemon tree leaves to yellow. As a quick fix, water the tree with iron chelates, a form of soluble iron available from most garden centres and hardware stores.

3. Not enough water

Lemon trees need regular and deep watering that reaches the root system. When plants dry out they don’t get enough nutrients. Lack of water can be a major problem for containerised trees.

After watering, check that the water has soaked into the soil and not simply drained away leaving the roots dry. If the soil below the surface is still dry, apply a soil wetting agent to encourage the soil or potting mix to better absorb water, and then water again.

Citrus tolerate a range of soil types, but thrive in light soils with good drainage. The ideal pH level should sit between 6.0 and 7.0. Unfortunately, this type of soil is hard to find naturally in Australia, so a bag of loamy or sandy loam soil will go a long way in helping your citrus grow.

What is the best soil for citrus trees?

4. Common lemon tree pests

Citrus bugs, scale and aphids can affect the health of the lemon and its leaves. Seeing ants along the stems is a sign that the tree has pests. Aphids appear on new growth and can be squashed or hosed off. Scale typically appears on the stems or backs of leaves.

Apply horticultural spray oil according to the instructions on the container. Adult citrus bugs are green and with care can be knocked from the tree into a container of soapy water. Wear sunglasses when doing this as these pests squirt a toxic liquid that can burn eyes. Spraying with horticultural oil in winter reduces pest numbers and without the pests, the ants too should disappear.

5. Too cold

Lemon trees prefer a warm subtropical climate, but grow in cooler climates if sheltered from cold winds and cold winter conditions. When the tree is cold, its roots are unable to absorb enough nutrients to keep the leaves green so they turn yellow.

Shelter lemons from cold winds with plastic, a screen or a hedge. Keep the plant watered through winter but don’t apply fertiliser until spring when temperatures increase and the tree shows signs of new growth.

6. Rootbound

Lemons that are grown in pots may outgrow the space in one to two years, leaving the plant unable to take up enough water and nutrients to thrive.

To provide more space, repot the lemon into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting mix. Select a good quality potting mix and work in about 10 per cent by volume of compost. For long-term success, grow a dwarf lemon in a large pot.

Depending on the variety, lemon trees can grow up to around four or five metres tall, sometimes even higher, when planted in the ground. Dwarf varieties, like the popular Dwarf Meyer Lemon, tend not to surpass the two metre mark.

How tall do lemon trees grow?

7. Engulfed in weeds

Lemons don’t like sharing. To keep trees green, leafy and productive remove all competing weeds and grass from under and around a lemon tree. Replace the weeds with a 2-5cm layer of coarse organic mulch mixed with aged manure. Keep mulch away from the tree trunk.

The best products for a thriving lemon tree

01

Honest to Goodness Epsom Salt, Magnesium Sulphate, 5kg

$24.15, Amazon

Best for: addressing magnesium deficiency

Light green or yellow blotches on your lemon tree leaves can be a sign of magnesium deficiency. A quick way to fix this common issue is by adding a teaspoon of Epsom salts into two litres of water and distributing it evenly into the soil surrounding the tree.

Shop now

02

Yates Insect Control Spray

$14.30, Woolworths

Best for: controlling pests without causing leaf burn

Pests like mealy bugs and aphids crawling all over your lemon tree is a common cause of yellow leaves but, regular spritzes of a horticultural spray oil should fix that. This one from Yates even includes a UV inhibitor that helps prevent leaf burn during hot weather.

Shop now

03

Yates Iron Chelate Leaf Greener Conditioner

$31.99, Amazon

Best for: correcting iron deficiency

Low iron levels can also be a cause of yellow leaves, so an iron chelate product like this one from Yates is a great way to deliver a dose of iron directly to deficient leaves.

Shop Now

04

Avutto White Planter Large

$139.30, Freedom

Best for: stylishly housing your citrus tree

Yellowing leaves can often signal that your potted lemon tree has outgrown its home. The good news is that the solution is simple: repot the tree into a larger pot, like this minimalist weather-resistant one from Freedom. Generally, repotting needs to happen every two years to keep growing lemon trees happy.

Get more citrus gardening tips

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“My wife gave birth to our third child, Bonnie, the day after we moved in,” he tells me. “It was really full on because Charlotte was just so heavily pregnant. I was like, ‘Oh God, what about this baby waiting for us to be in Toorak, what a little silver spooner!’”

How much time do you spend at home? “Heaps” is Marty’s adamant reply. “My office isn’t too far from home,” this father of three explains.

What does home mean to The Block’s newest judge? “Home is where I’m able to turn off and it’s my sanctuary. It’s where I recharge. It’s my happy place,” he says.

“I’m a big homebody. I love being at home. I love walking around the garden with my shoes off. I love standing there and pondering and just zoning out.”

“It has been incredibly lucky for us. We’ve made amazing memories in this house.”

MARTY FOX

Their last home at Middle Park was right on the beach. The beautiful Italianate mansion was supposed to be their forever home. “We outgrew it, so we bought this ugly duckling, the house that no one wanted to touch. It had been sitting on the market for nearly six months,” he explains.

This home is the 14th property the pair, who met when they were teenagers, have renovated. Their first, a one-bedroom apartment in St Kilda, was “as big as the main bedroom in this house”.

These seasoned renovators could give any The Block contestant a run for their money. “Charlotte works on the design, I project manage,” Marty explains. “And she has a fantastic eye for marble.” Which explains why 37 slabs of marble were used in this restoration: not one tile can be found in any wet area in the house.

After 15 years of talking to buyers, Marty understands better than anyone the concept of ‘buying well’. “That’s the secret. Look for what you can do to a house without having to make major changes to the original layout. Knocking out a wall here and there to open up spaces is okay, but anything more needs to be carefully considered,” he says.

The high ceilings, large rooms and ornate details of Victorian architecture appeal to both Marty and Charlotte. The five-bedroom house, built in the late 1890s, was a classic example of this style. “We’ve restored it in a super sympathetic way and replaced period details that had been stripped out,” he says.

Look at before-and-after photographs and you will see how a wall between the kitchen and living room has been removed to create a breakfast bar, while a study is now an ensuite for the main bedroom.

“What Charlotte and I have been extremely good at in our renovations is not doing major structural changes. What we were able to do in this house was to keep the principal rooms in their existing positions but knock through a few walls to create larger spaces.”

“We’ve restored it in a super sympathetic way and replaced period details.”

MARTY FOX

The couple love art. Ladies in Waiting, a large collage and mixed-media work by Dina Broadhurst, captures your attention in the living room, but it’s an abstract piece on a nearby wall that’s of particular significance. An artwork by late Melbourne artist David Band, was a gift from fashion designer Jenny Bannister after Marty sold her St Kilda home in 2016 for $3.3million, a record-breaking price.

“She had an amazing home in Wellington Street, St Kilda. It was my last auction before I left to start Whitefox. I hit it out of the ballpark, did an amazing job for her. I had always loved the artwork in her property, and we had a big party after we sold it. She said, ‘Marty, choose any piece of artwork in the house and it’s part of your commission’,” he says.

“Look for what you can do without having to make major changes to the original layout.”

MARTY FOX

The sale, the last before he set up on his own, was a turning point in the 36-year-old’s career. Clearly, there’s a reason why people say, “When people buy through Marty, they sell through Marty.”

His dream was to have a tennis court. “I looked over the back fence and I noticed that the lady behind us had this big back garden. I said, ‘Would you sell me your back garden for a million dollars? She told me to go away, but I kept asking the question every time I saw her.”

Persistence paid off and four months later, the neighbour changed her mind — but there was one condition. Marty had to buy the house, not just the backyard. “I thought, ‘I have to make this happen’, but we’d just bought and renovated,” he explains. “And Charlotte was saying, no we can’t do it.”

The solution was to apply for a planning permit to cut the block in half, retain part of the garden for Marty’s dream tennis court and sell the section with the house. All went to plan — with the added bonus of their new neighbours having three children exactly the same age as Freddy, 6, Olive, 4, and one-year-old Bonnie.

“There is a gate in the fence and the kids just run back and forth between the properties,” he says. “They have a great time.” But the kids won’t be playing tennis any time soon.

“You wouldn’t believe what happened,” Marty explains, laughing at the memory. “Right bang in the middle of our back garden is this amazing tree.”

“A friend came over and said: ‘Marty, this is a lucky bean tree. It is magical… this tree makes you healthy, it’s great for your finances and it’s great for your family life. The energy that this tree gives off is incredibly special. If you put that tennis court in, very bad things are going to happen.'”

“Then my brother Taylor ended up getting married under it so, I thought, ‘Okay, that tree’s definitely not coming out.’”

“And it has been incredibly lucky for us. We’ve made amazing memories in this house. We’ve had heaps of good fortune in business, and we’ve been the happiest we’ve ever been here living here. And now that our children are at that age where they really do remember, I think this is home, the one where we will stay,” he says. But, as Marty would say, you can never say never.

White Fox Real Estate: whitefoxrealestate.com.au.

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BRISBANE

VIP Preview (by invitation only)
Thursday 9 May: 12pm – 5pm

Public Opening Hours
Opening Night: Thursday 9 May: 5pm – 9pm
Friday 10 May: 10am – 8pm
Saturday 11 May: 10am – 5pm
Sunday 12 May: 10am – 5pm

WHERE
Brisbane Showgrounds Exhibition Building, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills QLD 4006, Australia

SYDNEY

VIP Preview (by invitation only)
Thursday 13 June: 12pm – 5pm

Public Opening Hours
Opening Night: Thursday 13 June: 5pm – 9pm
Friday 14 June: 10am – 8pm
Saturday 15 June: 10am – 5pm
Sunday 16 June: 10am – 5pm

WHERE
The Royal Randwick Racecourse Winx Pavilion Gate E, Alison Road, Randwick, NSW, 2031 

MELBOURNE

VIP Preview (by invitation only)
Thursday 29 August: 12pm – 5pm

Public Opening Hours
Opening Night: Thursday 29 August: 5pm – 9pm
Friday 30 August: 10am – 9pm
Saturday 31 August: 10am – 5pm
Sunday 1 September: 10am – 5pm

WHERE
Royal Exhibition Building, 9 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053 

TICKETS To purchase tickets visit affordableartfair.com

Conditions apply, see ‘Rules’ tab below or visit aremedia.com.au/competitions

The post We’re giving you the chance to win double pass tickets to the Affordable Art Fair in Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne. appeared first on Homes To Love.

“As a holiday home it obviously had to be a relaxing place to stay, and while it’s sophisticated, with guests coming and going, it needed to be liveable and not precious,” says Maria.

Built in the 1980s, the home had good structural bones and floor-to-ceiling bifolds connected the living areas to the garden, but the dark interiors lacked character and soul, and needed an overhaul.

To recreate the home as a holiday haven, Maria drew inspiration from the “understated luxury of Italian villas,” which played to some of its features, including an oversized wooden front door and a bedroom terrace with water views.

“The interiors are beautiful, with an elevated level of sophistication, but they are also restrained,” she says. “While the house is not an Italian villa, the terracotta-coloured paint on the outside conjures holiday memories and I loved that.”

The colour was custom made by Peter Lewis Paints and named Villa Balmoral, a cute homage to the design inspiration and location, but also Maria’s name. “That’s Peter’s level of detail and customisation, when he works on your projects,” she adds.

Terracotta and a congenial medley of sandy tones inform the interior palette too, echoing the coastal surrounds and nearby harbour beach.

During the nine-month project, rooms on all three-levels were renovated: A gym, bathroom and study in the basement; three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a TV lounge and kitchen/ dining/living area on the ground floor; plus a bedroom and ensuite in the roof space.

Guests enjoy a well-appointed coastal retreat – surrounded by a collection of curated antiques and creative commissions – that goes beyond the cookie cutter beach house, Maria says. “I wanted the main bedroom to have an extra special surprise, so Penny from Think Positive Prints designed this beautiful ‘tree of life’ I had printed on to the curtains.”

THIS IS THE LIFE

A lighter backdrop set the scene for the home’s new airy interiors. Wide natural oak boards were laid on the ground floor, replacing the original ‘orange’ timber, and the house was painted top-to-toe in Peter Lewis Paints Plaster, a soft white in an eggshell finish that “catches the shadows and light with a beautiful shimmer”.

Maria also heightened the door frames and fitted new doors, including French doors to the TV lounge.

“Dark and dated” bathrooms were given a deluxe update with premium fixtures and fittings, and textural layers of natural stone, “the speckles and grains reminiscent of nearby sandy shores”.

At the back, the living areas flow out on to the landscaped garden. The original 1980s kitchen has been replaced with swathes of bespoke oak timber veneer and Brazilian natural stone. “I love the warmth of the timber,” says Maria, who enhanced the feeling of spaciousness by matching its tones to the oak floorboards.

To resolve an impractical layout, she added a central island and reorientated the kitchen, blocking a door in the right-hand corner: “We wanted to free up space and make it seamless and easily accessible from the dining area.”

Beyond the dining and lounge, a landscaped garden with a pond and fire pit boasts all the bells and whistles for guests to cook and enjoy long lunches and convivial evenings.

Equally welcoming are the interiors, with their mix of contemporary furniture and homewares and preloved finds. Maria’s love of eclectic pieces imbued with history and stories lend a unique and lived-in quality to the home.

“The stories they all tell make the home feel extra-special, homely and unique.”

Villa+Villa: villaandvilla.com.au
LA Construct: laconstruct.com.au
The house is available to rent from Contemporary Hotels: contemporaryhotels.com.au/accommodation/Sydney/balmoral-luxe.

The Design Team

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A monochrome palette reimagines the modern story of this light-filled, coastal home

A modern Mediterranean-inspired coastal home in Palm Beach

The waves of calm keep coming in this renovated Surf Coast home

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The post An inspired renovation and collected treasures transform this 1980s home into a coastal retreat appeared first on Homes To Love.

Conceived by interior designer Kate Walker of KWD, along with Cahill Building Group, the property occupies a 1000sqm corner site in an idyllic seaside neighbourhood and offers tranquil views over Port Phillip Bay.

The project was designed as a traditional family home with five bedrooms and five bathrooms, three living areas, a lift and a pool set in landscaped gardens.

“We wanted to establish a home reflective of an English gentleman’s seaside manor with a distinguished interior,” says Kate. “The facade was specifically designed to create a sense of age and history so the property looked like a renovation rather than a new build.”

With its bright, white-painted brick, gabled roofline and high fence, the exterior promises refined grandeur within and the interior does not disappoint. Throughout the expansive home, a white backdrop and Italian oak floorboards are complemented by tessellated tiles in breakout areas and shades of blue.

Marble benchtops and tiles, and custom joinery add luxury, while brass light fixtures, hardware and objets d’art offer a historical link.

Soaring multi-paned windows admit lashings of light everywhere and in the bathrooms whimsical wallpapers spark joy. A two-way fireplace in the living area links indoors and out, and adds a contemporary note.

The entry hall leads into the vast family living, dining and kitchen area with its seamless connection to the outdoors. Flooded with light, it is a foil for the formal living room and bar on the opposite side of the entry. This is the perfect spot for evening cocktails in front of the fireplace, with an intimate club vibe created by way of the moody blue walls, plush tan seating, a vintage Persian rug and collectables.

The orientation is one of the most successful aspects of the property, with the home capturing views to the north and west, and natural light flooding in year-round. A sun-splashed pool, adjoining barbecue pavilion and manicured gardens offer the perfect combination of alfresco entertaining and relaxation space. Inside, convivial occasions can be enjoyed with family and friends in the expansive family room, intimate bar or living area.

This is the life

“The home has a masculine flavour brought to life with a mixed materiality,” says Kate. “There is a refined attention to detail in every space.” Leather details reinforce the masculine edge.

Outside, the generous site has been enhanced by landscaping studio Plume to complement the manor-esque feel of the home with mature plantings. Areas for entertaining and relaxation are dotted around the property, including a barbecue pavilion and pool terrace.

The accommodation wing on the upper floor includes a spectacular, spacious main bedroom with a fireplace, views to the bay, a dressing room, marble ensuite and custom coffee room. Downstairs, the ground floor guest bedroom has its own entrance and a separate kitchenette.

Developer Steve Cahill of Cahill Building Group says the architectural style of the home complements the surrounding area and blends in without being imposing. “It sits very comfortably in the streetscape. The home has a sense of softness while maintaining an innate grandeur.”

For Kate, one of the highlights is that the house captures coastal views from every room bar one. “It has the essence of a distinguished English seaside manor with all the convenience of a contemporary build. There is a feeling of romance and nostalgia as you walk through the front gates, with the interior offering a comfortable lifestyle for a large family.

KWD: katewalkerdesign.com.au.

Cahill Building Group: cahillbg.com.au.

Plume: plumestudio.com.au

Photography assistant: Sara Wilkosz

Stylists’ assistants: Natalie Petrovski and Nikki McGar

Staging by Crate Expectations

The Design Team

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With large parklands nearby, they have access to numerous playgrounds for their young daughter, Ellie, and plenty of convenient walking tracks for rescue pup, Nala. Bronte beach, the CBD and Sydney airport are all a quick car trip away and Tim, an anaesthetist, enjoys a short commute to the nearby Prince of Wales public and private hospitals.

The large backyard was an even bigger drawcard for the couple, who love to entertain. “There’s enough space for Tim’s extended Greek family and my family to come together to eat, laugh and relax,” says Bethany.

“It’s a well-used and loved space.”

However, the home’s layout didn’t quite meet expectations. “Following a fairly ordinary back extension in the 1990s, it was a warren of little rooms despite being a large, older house, and it had little connection to the back garden,” says architect and interior designer Brooke Aitken, who was entrusted to right the home’s wrongs.

“In short, it had great bones but the dress it was wearing was not showing them off well.”

Keeping the original heritage features at the front, Brooke worked with builder Grosser Constructions to remove the old rear extension and build a contemporary black steel and glass addition in its place, digging down into the block to give the family, which includes Tim’s older children, Olivia, 17, and George, 16, three levels of space to spread out in.

“These extensions extrude out of the old building, almost extending as new butterflies from the old shells,” says Brooke.

Entering from the street, the ground floor encompasses two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a study and a vast open-plan kitchen, dining and living space to the rear.

There is another bedroom and study upstairs, along with a playful mezzanine space carved into the original roof space, with an oculus through which the moon can be seen at night.

“The owners are incredibly colour-confident and urged us to ensure every room had a separate colour associated with it.”

BROOKE AITKEN, ARCHITECT & INTERIOR DESIGNER

The lower ground level consists of two more bedrooms and a living space, giving the two teenagers privacy away from the main house, and there’s also a self-contained granny flat.

This being a large family who love to entertain, there is plenty of room for a crowd. “We can easily sit six around the kitchen island and we have a large space in the living area for our dining table, which seats 12,” says Bethany.

“The back verandah is great for casual entertaining; it’s where we do pizzas or paella.”

“And the living room is great for board games or cups of tea with friends,” continues Bethany.

The addition of high ceilings, tall glass sliding doors and skylights flood the kitchen and main living space with natural light. At the same time, many of the heritage features have been retained and celebrated, from the old fireplace in Bethany and Tim’s main bedroom to the decorative cornicing adorning the front of the home.

“Colour was important in every room,” explains Brooke. “Bethany and Tim are incredibly colour-confident and urged us to ensure that every room had a separate colour associated with it.”

“The library bookcase is a feast for the eyes: dynamic and ever evolving.”

BETHANY, OWNER

The colour journey starts in the hallway, where deep, grass green paint and a wild palm tree wallpaper make a refreshing statement. Further along in the kitchen, Brooke experimented with blue-stained timber cabinetry, which over time has settled into a lovely teal-green tone.

Each of the six bathrooms have their own palette, from the cheery yellow powder room to the main ensuite with its swathe of blue handmade tiles.

In the granny flat, an orange kitchen is a plucky choice.

Furniture selections have been added over time and include such iconic pieces as a Cassina modular sofa and Lowe Furniture dining table.

Both Bethany and Tim name the built-in bookcase with library ladder in the living room as their favourite feature: “It’s a feast for the eyes, dynamic and ever evolving,” says Bethany.

Perhaps the biggest success of this home is the bespoke nature of its design, along with all of that extra space.

“It’s so unique in its colours, finishes and style,” says Bethany. “In no way was it renovated with a view to sell; we renovated it exactly how we wanted to enjoy it for the foreseeable future.”

From the sprawling backyard to the hardworking kitchen, this is a home for entertaining. “We love to have people over and will try dishes we’ve never done before, serving them up to 10-plus people,” says Bethany. “It’s nice to just be in your own home; you don’t have to worry about vacating the table for the next booking.”

THIS IS THE LIFE

Brooke Aitken Design, Ultimo, NSW; brookeaitkendesign.com.au.
Grosser Constructions, Chippendale, NSW; grosserconstructions.com.au.

The Design Team

The post A colourful reimagining of this heritage home transforms it into a feast for the eyes appeared first on Homes To Love.

Over the years I’ve planted thousands of trees. On the farm alone I’ve planted more than 20,000, ranging from native tubestock to encourage birds and wildlife to large olive trees that create an instant impact. You don’t need to have a large garden to have a tree. There are many beautiful dwarf citrus and crepe myrtles that look amazing in pots on balconies.

How to plant a tree the right way 

I used to simply stick a tree in the ground and walk away thinking my work was done. Sometimes they grew and sometimes they died. Over the years, I’ve learnt a few simple tricks that really make a difference. It’s not rocket science and, trust me, if you follow these simple steps, your success rate will improve dramatically.

Prepare the proper planting hole: When preparing any hole for planting, make it twice the width of  the current root mass, but never deeper than the pot it was growing in.

Plant high: I go one step further by placing trees and shrubs in their new home with up to 10 per cent of the root ball higher than the surrounding soil level. Next, I taper the soil up to cover all the roots and add a generous layer of mulch. It’s always better to plant slightly high to allow the area to drain properly.

Check the root ball: Once the plant is out of its container, look at the roots. If they are densely bound and seem rootbound, gently break up root ball with your fingers. One of the biggest mistakes you can make at this point is to place a rootbound plant into the ground as is. 

Eliminate air pockets: While you could lightly tamp down with your foot or hand-pack the soil around the roots, I prefer to backfill the hole halfway, then fill with water. This provides moisture, and the water also helps eliminate air pockets. Finally, water again gently but thoroughly once all the soil is in place.

Mulch: Starting about 10cm away from the trunk (leave this area exposed), place roughly 5-10cm of organic matter, such as shredded leaves, ground bark or nuggets around the plant, at least out to the drip line. Mulch helps retain moisture and keep roots cooler – an important requirement for newly installed plants.

Water, water and water: Until Established You may need to do this for months, or a year or more in some cases (I usually cheat and put them all on timed irrigation). The key to proper watering and establishment is slow and deep irrigation once a week.

Fertilise: Once the ground is wet, sprinkle it with a good amount of organic slow-release fertiliser before you cover it with mulch. This will help kickstart good robust growth. 

When is the best time to plant a tree

Trees (and shrubs) can be planted any time of the year that it’s possible to dig a suitable planting hole. But the optimal time to plant trees and shrubs is autumn. Autumn is great because the ground is still lovely and warm for the roots to get established and the days are starting to cool. Having said that, if you’re planning on growing a tree in a pot on your balcony, the time of year doesn’t matter.

How to choose the right tree for your garden

When someone talks about a tree, most people think of a 30-metre-tall oak tree towering over everything, but there are plenty of trees for smaller spaces, including balconies. We once bought a small Wollemi pine and slowly grew it on our balcony for 10 years until it was three metres tall and it now happily lives in the ground. The Italians are famous for growing their fruit trees in pots. If you’re unsure of what kind of tree will work best, start by measuring the site and working out the maximum space you can allow, then speak with your local nursery if in doubt.

How to move a tree

Conversely, if you have to move house and want to take the garden too, winter is the time to do it because this is the best time to move plants. When plants are dormant, or growing slowly, you can dig them up with little damage occurring, and transport them to a new garden or position. The cooler temperatures of winter also mean plants come under less stress during the move – and so do you. Emotionally, it is also easier to leave a garden in the winter when it is slumbering.

How to transplant a tree

You don’t have to take the extreme step of moving house to make the most of the winter to move a plant. If you have a plant that’s growing in the wrong spot, use this winter to dig it up and transplant it to a more suitable location within your garden, or to transfer it into a pot.

Not every plant is a good candidate for a move. If you are moving interstate, think twice about taking plants and remember that some states (particularly Tasmania and Western Australia) prohibit plant imports without quarantine certificates.

Plants that are very old, big and well established are hard to move without assistance. Their size makes them awkward and heavy to handle. Any plant that’s more than a metre high and wide has a heavy root ball. You will need at least two people to handle the plant safely. As plants get bigger, available muscle power may not be enough. You may need to call on the services of a small digger or a bobcat to dig up the plant.

Damage often occurs to the root system of plants as they are dug up and moved. If you don’t easily get most of the roots, the plant may die or be slow to re-establish in its new location.

What are the best and most robust plants to transplant

Most deciduous shrubs, bulbs and perennials are easily moved. Some evergreens such as camellias are also easy to move, but many native trees and shrubs resent a move. If the plant you want to move grows readily from seed or cutting, consider collecting seedor taking cuttings, rather than digging up the entire plant.

Plants that naturally form a clump, or produce runners with their own roots, can be moved by just digging up part of the plant and leaving the rest of it behind.

Plants that are worth moving are any that may be destroyed if they are left – perhaps by a house extension or changes to the garden layout – any that you feel are irreplaceable. Any plants you’ve put into the garden to help sell the house may also be easy to dig back up, repot and take with you to brighten up the new place.

If you are planning to take a major plant out of the garden, such as a maple, make this clear to your agent and potential buyers, to avoid problems. Think of the plants in the garden as you would the fittings and fixtures in the house.

How to move a plant

To prepare a plant for its move, first dig around the root system. If you have time to do this several months ahead of the move, dig a trench around the plant at the extent of its leaves. This severs the main roots, which begin to form new, fine feeding roots that will help the plant adapt to its new location. Fill the trench with sand or compost and give the root area between the trunk and the trench regular water. Apply a seaweed tonic every two or three weeks.

When the day of the move arrives, dig down and under the plant. Slip a tarp, some hessian or a large sheet of plastic under the root ball, and use it to help keep the root system together and to help manoeuvre the plant.

If you need to put the uprooted plant in a pot, shake or hose off the soil, trim damaged or broken roots, then put the plant in a pot with a commercial potting mix. Water it well.

Spray the plant with an anti-transpirant product to reduce water loss from the foliage, and keep it in a cool, shaded spot to reduce stress.

Once you have the plant in its new location, water it every few weeks with a seaweed tonic. Shelter the plant from wind and extreme heat or cold with a temporary screen or cover of shadecloth. Monitor it carefully and provide extra water when it is hot, dry or windy, as it will probably wilt readily.

If you want to move a valuable plant, but can’t do the job yourself, you can call on the services of a landscape contractor. Contact the Landscape Industries Association in your area.

When should you should move a tree

Before you decide to move a plant, ask these questions and think the job through carefully from start to finish.

How big is this plant? If it is over a metre high or wide, be prepared for heavy work due to the weight of the root ball. Check the cost of transport with the removalist.

Is it a special variety, or can I buy a new one? If you know the name of the variety, check with your local nursery to see if you can readily buy the plant. If you can buy it, get another plant when you’re ready to plant in your new garden.

Will it suit my new climate? Don’t move plants out of their climate zone. In particular, take into account frost, rainfall and summer heat.

Can I water and care for the plant in its new location? If you will be a long time in transit, or busy on arrival, plants that need lots of care may be too hard to manage.

Do I have somewhere to plant it in the new garden? Consider where it is going to go in the new location.

The post How to move or plant a tree that will flourish for years to come appeared first on Homes To Love.

Apart from the beauty that they can provide, ground covers also offer practical benefits. They can suppress weeds, prevent what would otherwise be bare soil from drying out, and even stop sloping garden beds from sliding. And when they are flowering, the aesthetic and emotional benefits are endless.

With numerous flowering options to choose from, whether your garden is rambling and untamed, or structured and manicured, there is sure to be a plant to suit. There are even plenty of drought-tolerant and shade-loving plants for flowering groundcovers. As particularly hardy plants, flowering ground covers are also generally quite easy to grow and require little to no maintenance.

You can’t go wrong with these seven flowering ground cover varieties for sun, shade and fast growth.

Best flowering ground cover plants

1. Lamb’s Ear

Producing velvety silver-grey leaves, Lamb’s Ears are not only a beautiful ground covering, but one of the hardiest and easiest to care for. The perennials grow into a tight, dense mat, and can also be used for border edging in your garden beds, and they welcome dainty white and yellow flowers.

It grows well in most areas including even those with drought-like conditions, and while it prefers full sun, it can thrive in partial shade, so long as the soil isn’t too moist. To help it spread along the ground, it’s best to divide and replant it at the end of each season.

2. Native Violet

Native violet is your go-to flowering groundcover plant for that shady, often damp area down the side of the house and is similar in appearance to a wild grass. It’s ideal to soften around a stepping-stone path, adding pretty mauve and white flowers for most of the year to the dense cover of round leaves.

It spreads easily, so don’t use where it will compete with other plants. In shade it can reach 10cm tall, but is flatter in sunnier and drier spots. It grows in most climates.

3. Star Jasmine

Star jasmine is the climber we love for its mass of perfumed white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. Not only is the white star flower aesthetically blessed, is also makes an equally hardy groundcover.

Use it in sun or shade to cover large areas under tall trees or across sloping banks. It forms a dense cover about 30cm high, but if you want a lower and tighter flowering ground cover, look for Asiatic star jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum), especially the cultivar ‘Flat Mat’. Shear it all over after flowering finishes.

4. Bellflower

Profuse, star-shaped flowers in lavender-blue from mid-spring to summer make this dense flowering ground cover as pretty as it is practical. The soft, heart-shaped leaves reach no more than 15cm high but can spread indefinitely. It sometimes self-seeds in the cracks of paths or steps, so is able to tolerate occasional dryness.

It’s also lovely spilling over rocks, or filling in between perennials and shrubs. It grows in cool and warm climates where it’s protected from hot sun.

5. Blue Bugle

This shade-loving beauty forms flat rosettes of shiny leaves from which tall spikes of blue flowers rise in spring and summer. The leaves are usually glossy deep green, but ‘Atropurpurea’ has purplish tones; ‘Burgundy Glow’ features mottled cream, pale green and crimson leaves; and ‘Catlin’s Giant’ has larger, red-tinted foliage.

Grow Ajuga in warm or cool climates (where it takes more sun) but not the tropics. It’s useful under deciduous trees or to bind soil. Once established, it forms a dense mat.

6. Creeping Boobialla

For hot, dry spots, this Australian native plant is a good choice because it’s tough and easy-care. The foliage can be green or bronze-purple, and there’s also a fine-leafed form.

In spring, it’s sprinkled with small, white or pale pink starry flowers. The stems form roots as they grow, so it’s excellent for binding steep banks, and looks lovely as fill between native shrubs or spilling over a wall. It grows in cool, warm and subtropical climates and needs a lot of sun.

7. Creeping Thyme

Believe it or not, this aromatic herb makes for an excellent and hardy groundcover. Thyme produces small, vibrant green leaves that have a fresh fragrance. Opt for the creeping variety and it can grow up to 5cm thick, and spread up to 50cm along the ground.

It’s a sun-loving option for groundcover that needs very little watering, and looks stunning when planted between pavers or stepping stones in your garden. Be aware that creeping thyme isn’t quite as flavourful as the variety commonly used in cooking, but can be used nonetheless. Just make sure you give it a good wash if its been stepped on!

What is the best low maintenance flowering ground cover in Australia?

Several varieties are easy to grow and maintain in Australian gardens, including Lamb’s Ear and Creeping Thyme. They are known for their easy care and resilience, meaning you can get back to whatever it is you were doing before you planted your ground cover.

What is the best flowering ground cover to choke out weeds?

Flowering ground cover plants offer practical benefits like acting to suppress weeds by physically removing space for weeds to grow. Hardy, bulky plants are a great option, and include native violet, blue bugle and creeping thyme.

The post 7 flowering ground cover plants for Australian gardens appeared first on Homes To Love.

Outdoor potted plants create a focal point in larger gardens, but can also quite as easily elevate courtyards, balconies and patios that don’t have as much access to garden beds and soil. 

When it comes to picking a suitable variety, there is an abundance of plants that thrive this way, from edible potted citrus trees to fragrant frangipanis and, of course, more sculptural topiary shrubs.  

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You can easily transform your outdoor space into a lush oasis by pairing stylish outdoor plant pots with the right species. 

Here, we take a look at the best outdoor potted plants; whether they’re sun- or shade-loving, chosen for their good looks, or for being robust and easy to grow.

The best outdoor potted plants in Australia

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)

Best for: shady gardens

Peace lilies are a very popular indoor plant, but this glossy-leafed beauty also thrives outside in a warm, bright spot, out of direct sun. The white blooms are long-lasting and make for a spectacle in your garden. Outdoors, peace lilies can tolerate temperatures between 18°C to 27°C, but it’s best to move them indoors in more severe weather.

Tips for growing peace lily in pots:

• Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes
• Place in bright, indirect light
• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
• Fertilise monthly during the growing season

Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)

Best for: shady gardens

Fuchsias are traditionally shade-loving plants but the Sun Kisses variety also takes full sun. They flower profusely throughout the year and can tolerate temperatures from -3˚C to 40˚C. They thrive outdoors in pots, provided they have well-draining soil and indirect light. They can also be trained to grow as a tree, bush (prune regularly), in baskets, or even espaliered or as bonsai. 

Tips for growing fuchsia in pots:

• Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes
• Place in bright, indirect light
• Keep soil constantly moist
• Feed with balanced fertiliser during the growing season

Port wine magnolia (Michelia figo)

Best for: shady gardens

Port wine magnolias (or Magnolia figo) may be slow-growing but they’re a very worthwhile large shrub. The dense, small leaves make an excellent screen, and the bubblegum perfume of its spring flowers is a bonus. When growing Port wine magnolias outdoors in pots, ensure you have a big enough pot and that it’s placed in partial shade or dappled sunlight.

Tips for growing Port wine magnolia in pots:

• Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes
• Place in partial sunlight
• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
• Fertilise during the growing season
• Prune to maintain the desired size and shape

Flamingo flower (Anthurium)

Best for: shady gardens

Anthuriums prefer bright light without direct sun and in a warm climate. Their flowers last for months and you can use them as a table centrepiece or for splashes of colour in your garden. Anthuriums can thrive potted outdoors in tropical or subtropical regions, but in cooler climates or areas with harsh winters, it’s best to keep them as an indoor potted plant.

Tips for growing Anthuriums in pots:

• Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes
• Place in partial sunlight
• Keep soil moist and consider misting foliage regularly
• Fertilise during the growing season

Golden cane palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Best for: shady gardens

If you’re looking for a tall potted plant for your garden, Gold cane palms can grow to 10 metres and are a dense, clumping plant. It’s lush and undemanding, although drying winds and hot sun can burn leaf tips. Similar to Anthuriums, Gold cane thrives in tropical or subtropical climates.

Tips for growing Golden cane palm in pots:

• Use well-draining soil
• Choose a pot 2-3 times larger than the palm’s root ball
• Place in partial sunlight
• Keep soil moist and consider misting foliage regularly
• Fertilise during the growing season
• Repot every 2-3 years

Camellia (Camellia japonica)

Best for: shady gardens

Camellias, with their dark, lustrous foliage, are the perfect foil for large and beautiful winter flowers, in pink, red and white. When it comes to putting them in outdoor pots, make sure to select a smaller variety. Camellia japonica cultivars like ‘Nuccio’s Gem’ and ‘Debutante’ are popular choices for potting, as well as Sasanqua camellias varieties like ‘Setsugekka’ and ‘Yuletide’.

Tips for growing camellias in pots:

• Select a large pot with drainage holes
• Use potting mix formulated for acid-loving plants
• Place in partial shade to filtered light
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser
• Move potted plants to shelter during frost

Fiddle-leaf fig (Ficus lyrata)

Best for: shady gardens

Popular as a house plant in the 1960s for its handsome, large leaves and un-killable nature the fiddle leaf fig is enjoying a welcome comeback to garden designs everywhere. It’s tall and striking wherever it’s placed, and thrives in a pot indoors. It can also be grown in a pot outdoors but is more suitable for tropical and subtropical regions.

Tips for growing fiddle-leaf figs in pots:

• Ensure you live in warm, tropical conditions
• Select a large pot with drainage holes
• Place in a sheltered location with partial shade
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser
• Move potted plants to shelter during frost

Blueberry

Best for: sunny gardens

Delicious blueberries are easy to grow in large pots and have pretty profuse flowers. Choose evergreen varieties such as Blueberry Burst that look good year-round. Cultivars that work particularly well for container gardening include Sunshine Blue, Top Hat, Peach Sorbet, and Jelly Bean.

Tips for growing blueberries in pots:

• Select a large pot with at least 40-50 cm diameter
• Use a well-draining, acidic potting mix
• Place in full sun to partial shade
• Keep soil constantly moist but not waterlogged
• Feed with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilise
• Prune to encourage fruiting
• Ensure adequate pollination by attracting bees

Geranium Big Red (Pelargonium x hortorum Big Red)

Best for: sunny gardens

The star performer among the geranium species, the ‘Big Red’ has bold red flowers for most of the year, is terrifically disease resistant and thrives in pots.

Tips for growing geranium in pots:

• Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes
• Ensure they get 6-8 hours of sunlight per day
• Keep soil constantly moist
• Feed with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season
• Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new growth
• Pinch back stems to encourage branching

Chilean Jasmine (Mandevilla)

Best for: sunny gardens

You can grow this long-flowering beauty as a climber or nip the tendrils for a soft, bushy effect. There are pink, white and crimson varieties, all with glossy leaves, and they thrive when they are grown outdoors in pots.

Tips for growing Chilean jasmine in pots:

• Pick an extra-large pot to accommodate growth
• Use well-draining potting mix
• Ensure at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Feed with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season
• Provide a trellis or support structure to climb
• Prune regularly to control size and shape

Imperial Bromeliad (Alcantarea imperialis)

Best for: sunny gardens

For a bit of wow factor, the bromeliad plant is unequalled, especially the Rubra and Silver Plum varieties. They can reach two metres across, so allow room with an extra-large pot.

Tips for growing bromeliad in pots:

• Select a pot that is wide and shallow
• Use well-draining potting mix or a mixture of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss
• Position in bright, indirect light
• Don’t overwater – only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch
• Consider misting the foliage occasionally

Dwarf sacred bamboo (Nandina Gulf Stream, Flirt and Obsession)

Best for: sunny gardens

Great texture and colour combine with toughness in the leafy Dwarf sacred bamboo plant. The colour intensifies in cool weather. Dwarf Sacred Bamboo is a compact variety of Nandina that is well-suited to growing in pots.

Tips for growing Dwarf sacred bamboo in pots:

• Select a pot that is wide and shallow
• Use a well-draining potting mix designed for outdoor ornamental plants
• Ensure at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Feed with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season

Dwarf kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos Bush Gems series Bush Fantasy)

Best for: sunny gardens

Just one of many colours in this series, dwarf kangaroo paw is grown and bred for superior flowering and performance and because of their more compact nature, are suitable for growing in pots.

Tips for growing Dwarf kangaroo paw in pots:

• Select a large, deep pot with good drainage holes
• Use a well-draining potting mix designed for native Australian plants
• Ensure at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day
• Don’t overwater – only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch
• Use a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertiliser during growing months
• Remove spent flower stems and dead or yellowing leaves regularly

Bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

Best for: sunny gardens

Silvery leaves and exotic flowers make the Bird of Paradise a popular and striking ornamental accent plant, yet it’s also tough as nails and can easily be grown outside in pots. Bird of paradise plants are also great for hot, exposed and windy spots.

Tips for growing Bird of Paradise in pots:

• Select a large, deep and heavy pot with good drainage holes
• Use a well-draining potting mix designed for tropical plants or palms
• Ensure at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser during growing months
• Remove spent flower stems and dead or yellowing leaves regularly

Jade plant (Crassula ovate)

Best for: sunny gardens

A compact succulent with great form and pretty heads of pinky-white flowers, the Jade plant practically thrives on neglect and is easy to grow in pots outside.

Tips for growing Jape plants in pots:

• Select a pot that is wide and shallow
• Use a well-draining potting mix designed for succulents or cacti
• Ensure at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day
• Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
• Use a balanced fertiliser during growing months

The post The best outdoor potted plants to add a feature to your garden  appeared first on Homes To Love.

With these highly visible open spaces, the kitchen is now expected to not only function well but also blend seamlessly with the home’s aesthetic. But where do you begin (and draw the line) when it comes to giving your kitchen a makeover?

Designed for the way you live today

If you’re thinking about upgrading your appliances, you can find yourself on a slippery slope into a full-blown renovation when you consider the aesthetics of matching your cabinetry with your appliances, tapware, and handles. How else can you achieve a seamless look?

The latest collection from German brand NEFF answers this challenge to perfection with its Flex Design range, allowing for both creativity and practicality when it comes to kitchen design.

Have your kitchen your way

The NEFF Flex Design range allows you to choose the colour of the sidebars and handles on your appliances. From your stovetop to the oven and range hood, now you can call the shots as to how your appliances fit into your décor, instead of the other way around. 

In four distinctive colours, you can choose from Brushed Bronze, Deep Black, Metallic silver and Anthracite Grey. Flex Design is available for the wider NEFF range of built-in ovens and steam ovens, induction hobs and coffee machines.

Both the side trims and handles are easily changeable so down the track, if you decide to change up your kitchen cabinetry, tapware or handles, you can easily change your colours again, without having to replace the entire appliance. It truly gives you the freedom to change up your kitchen whenever inspiration strikes.

Seamless customisation to fit your space

Here’s how it works: When you choose your appliances from the NEFF Flex Design range at Winnings, they will order your oven with a handle and side trims in your choice of colour. The side trims will already be ordered in the correct length for your desired inbuilt situation to ensure you have a seamless combination for your kitchen.

Watch how easy it is to change up the Flex Design elements in this video.

You can see some of the combinations that are possible and the trim lengths available on the NEFF product information website.

Where form meets function

The sleek NEFF product range includes ovens (including models with the award-winning Slide & Hide® ergonomic oven door that does exactly that – slides away to give full access to the oven without having to lean over the door), cooktops, rangehoods, dishwashers and more.

NEFF’s user-friendly tech makes using the range a seamless experience. The unique Twist Pad Flex® is a smart piece of tech that’s compatible with all NEFF appliances featuring Flex Control. The Twist Pad Flex® is a transferrable control knob that can be used to operate your oven, cooktop and coffee machine.

Simply place the magnetic dial in place and twist to select your settings. The interactive display lights up, offering instant assistance for easy use, whether you’re making a coffee or cooking a roast. And guess what: you can colour match its trim to your other appliances. 

NEFF brings over 100 years of manufacturing experience and innovation together with a thoroughly modern understanding of the kitchen’s role at the heart of the home – and their outstanding range of appliances is designed to make life in that domain a pleasure. Discover the NEFF range at Winnings.

The post Meet the kitchen appliance chameleons that adapt to fit your colour scheme appeared first on Homes To Love.

So, if you’ve done your research between top-loader washing machines and front loader washing machines and have decided upon the latter, then you’re at the right place.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best front-loader washing machines that are available on the market right now – with affordability and quality, front of mind.

The best front loader washing machines 2024

01

Westinghouse 9kg front load washing machine (WWF9024M5WA)

$949, The Good Guys

With a large 9kg capacity it means you can load more clothes with confidence – perfect for a five or more person household. It features 15 diverse wash programs for all your laundry needs, plus a quick 15-minute Fast cycle that lets you wash smaller or more urgent loads efficiently.

Key features:

• 9kg capacity
• 15 washing programs
• Inverter motor
• Time adjust function to reduce or increase wash times to suit schedule
• Auto water level sensing technology

Also available at:

• $809, Appliances Online

Shop now

02

Miele 9kg front load washing machine (WWV980WPS)

$5349, Appliances Online

With its honeycomb-design drum that ensures garments glide smoothly across it during every cycle and the TwinDos system that blends two liquid detergents, auto-dosing precisely for tailor-made care with each load, this is the machine designed to clean with care.

Key features:

• 9kg capacity
• Honeycomb drum design
• 12 wash programs
• TwinDos auto-dosing detergent system

Also available at:

• $5349, Bing Lee

Shop now

03

Electrolux 8kg front load washing (EWF8024Q5WB)

$899,The Good Guys

The UltimateCare 500 washing machine by Electrolux features an AddClothes function for times when you’ve started your load just to notice you’ve forgotten to add a t-shirt you’ve left hanging on a chair. Plus, with its fast and flexible cycles, it allows you to have shorter washes for urgent jobs.

Key features:

• EcoInvert model for minimal noise disturbance
• Quick 15 Cycle for an efficient 15-minute wash
• AddClothes function

Also available at:

• $893, Appliances Online

Shop Now

04

Bosch Serie 4 8kg front load washer (WAN24124AU)

$799, The Good Guys

Perfect for households of three to four people, the BOSCH 8kg front-load washing machine is a reliable machine for all your laundry needs. Plus, with its 1200 rpm maximum spin speed – it means drying time is significantly reduced.

Key features:

• 8kg capacity
• 12 washing programmes
• 1200rpm maximum spin speed

Also available at:

• $789, Appliances Online
• $799, Bing Lee

Shop Now

05

LG 8kg front load washing machine (WV5-1208W)

$799, The Good Guys

Sleek, stylish and decked out with all the bells and whistles is this 8kg front loader washing machine by LG. In a classic white finish, it will look right at home in any contemporary laundry room. Plus, this machine uses AI technology to assess each load and optimises the wash, to provide a more precise and thorough clean, every time.

Key features:

• 8kg capacity
• 6-motion direct drive technology that mimics hand washing
• Allergy care available with steam
• Narrow depth for a perfect fit

Shop now

06

Fisher & Paykel 8kg front load washer (WH8060J3)

$899, The Good Guys

Equipped with nine different washing programs to choose from, you’ll find just the right setting for each load. Plus, if you’re short on time, there is a 30-minute Vortex Wash cycle that doesn’t compromise on fabric care.

Key features:

• 8kg capacity
• 9 washing programmes
• SmartDrive technology that senses the load to deliver better fabric care
• Quick cycle available

Also available at:

• $876, Appliances Online

Shop now

07

12kg BubbleWash front load smart washer (WW12TP04DSB)

$1449, Samsung

Streamline and simplify your laundry routine with this front load washing machine by Samsung. Featuring AI control technology that personalises and adapts to your washing cycle based on your laundry needs and habits, it’s the top-of-the-line washing machine you’ve been searching for.

Key features:

• Large 12kg capacity
• AI control technology
• Hygiene steam cycle
• BubbleWash and BubbleSoak functions

Also available at:

• $1336, Appliances Online

Shop Now

How long do front-loader washing machines last?

Front loader washing machines typically last anywhere between 10 to 12 years, however, with consistent maintenance and care your machine may last longer then the expected time frame.

Are front-load washing machines better?

When it comes to choosing the washing machine that will best serve your needs, consider your space and frequency of use. For apartment living or laundry rooms with built-in appliance cabinetry, the front-load machine may be the superior option. Additionally, front-load washing machines tend to use minimal water in comparison to top-loading machines.

The post Lighten your load with these top-rated front loader washing machines appeared first on Homes To Love.