Understanding the Basics of Irrigation Plan Drawing and How to Create Your Plan
An irrigation plan drawing is a detailed map or diagram that shows the layout and design of an irrigation system. The irrigation plan drawing is a significant tool for designing and installing an effective irrigation system. It helps to ensure that the irrigation plan design meets the specific needs of the area being irrigated, including the type of crops or plants being grown, the soil type, the climate, and other factors.
How Can Landscape Design Software Help in Irrigation Plan Drawing?
Landscape design software is a handy instrument for creating irrigation plan drawings. The software can help make accurate and detailed plans immediately. It can also help to visualise the irrigation system in 3D, providing a better picture of how the system will look and work. Landscape design software can also help automate calculations and measurements, saving time and reducing errors.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Irrigation Plan Drawing
Making an irrigation plan drawing is a mandatory step in designing an effective and efficient irrigation system for your landscape. Here are the steps to creating an irrigation plan drawing:
Measure the Area: Measure the area that is to be irrigated, including the length and width of the landscape. Also, consider any natural features that may affect irrigation, such as hills, slopes, and water sources.
Classify Water Sources: Find the sources of water available for irrigation, such as a well, pond, lake, or municipal water supply. Also, consider the pressure and flow rate of the water source.
Determine Water Needs: Determine the water needs of the plants in the landscape. Factors such as plant type, soil type, and weather conditions affect the water needs of plants.
Create the drawing: There are some software programmes to create the irrigation plan drawing. Some of the best landscape design software programmes include SketchUp, AutoCAD, and SmartDraw. The drawing should include the layout of the irrigation components, water sources, and any natural features.
Implement the Plan: Implement the irrigation plan by installing the irrigation components, such as sprinklers and drip lines, as per the irrigation plan drawing.
Monitor and adjust: monitor the irrigation system regularly to ensure that it is working efficiently. Adjust the system as needed based on changes in weather conditions or plant needs.
Essential Tips for Optimal Irrigation Planning and Design
When it comes to cultivating healthy and thriving landscapes, efficient irrigation planning and design play a vital role. Properly managing water resources is essential for maintaining the sustainability of our ecosystems and optimising the growth of plants and crops. Whether you are a homeowner, a landscape professional, or a farmer, understanding the key principles and techniques for irrigation planning is crucial.
Following are the irrigation planning tips that would help in summarising:
- Conduct a site enquiry before designing an irrigation system. Consider soil type, slope, sun exposure, plant types, and water source.
- Use the best practises for creating a landscape plan, considering water conservation, plant types, and slope.
- Plan for water preservation using effective irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, and water-saving devices.
- Use suitable irrigation design techniques, including proper sprinkler spacing and even water circulation.
- Plan for regular maintenance, including checking for leaks and replacing worn parts.
- Consider automation for your irrigation system using programmable controllers and sensors.
- Consult a professional if you have a complex landscape or are new to irrigation design.
Understanding the basics of irrigation plan drawing and learning how to create your plan is essential for anyone involved in landscape or agricultural irrigation. By grasping the fundamental concepts, you can design an efficient and effective irrigation system tailored to your specific needs. Remember to consider factors such as water source, plant water requirements, terrain, and irrigation methods when creating your plan. Paying attention to these details will contribute to water conservation, improve plant health, and optimize the overall performance of your irrigation system. Whether you're a homeowner, a farmer, or a landscaping professional, mastering the basics of irrigation plan drawing will empower you to make informed decisions and achieve successful irrigation outcomes. So, roll up your sleeves, get familiar with the principles, and let your creativity flow as you design and implement your irrigation plan.
Final Thoughts
Making your own irrigation plan is a smart investment for any homeowner or landscaper looking to maintain a healthy and beautiful landscape. With the right tools and knowledge, you can design an optimal irrigation system that meets the unique needs of your landscape. By creating your own plan, you can ensure that your irrigation system is efficient, water-saving, and properly maintained. Don't hesitate to take control of your landscape's health and beauty. Create your own plan today and enjoy a lush and thriving landscape for years to come.
Our 2D Landscape Design Package closely resembles a house plan, providing a top-down perspective of the property. Within this package, you'll find comprehensive plant schedules, quantities, spacings, and precise placement locations, all aligned with irrigation and hydraulic drawings. The seamless collaboration between these two documents is crucial for the prosperity of your landscape. It guarantees that every plant receives consistent daily watering during its establishment period, promoting optimal growth and development.
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Everything You Need to Know about Irrigation Plan Design for a Successful Garden
A well-designed irrigation plan is essential for maintaining a healthy garden irrigation system. An irrigation plan involves the irrigation design and installation that deliver water to your plants at the right time and in the right amounts. This ensures that your plants receive consistent water without the need for manual watering, promoting healthy plant growth and reducing water waste. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of irrigation plan design for home gardens, including improved water conservation and more efficient irrigation, as well as provide tips and insights for creating the perfect irrigation plan for your garden.
What are the benefits of a well-designed irrigation plan?
The benefits of having a well-designed irrigation system for a home garden are numerous. First and foremost, it can help in water conservation by reducing wastage and ensuring that the right amount of water is applied to each plant. This not only helps reduce water bills but also promotes sustainability by reducing the amount of water that is consumed.
Additionally, an irrigation plan can help promote healthier plant growth by providing the necessary amount of water at the right time. This can also reduce the risk of plant diseases caused by overwatering or underwatering. Furthermore, an efficient irrigation plan can help save time and effort, as it eliminates the need for manual watering and ensures that plants receive water even when you are not present to do it yourself.
Creating the Perfect Irrigation Plan for Your Home Garden
To create a successful irrigation plan for your home garden, there are several important steps to follow. These include:
Landscape irrigation design: Before choosing an irrigation system, you need to assess the layout of your garden and identify areas that require water. Our 2D Landscape Design Package contains detailed plant schedules, quantities, spacings, and placement locations in accordance with a set of irrigation and hydraulic drawings. This will help you determine the best type of irrigation system to use and where to place water distribution points.
Drip irrigation system design: Drip irrigation is a popular option for home gardens, as it provides water directly to plant roots, reducing water waste and promoting plant health. When designing a drip irrigation system, you need to consider the type and size of tubing to use, the spacing of the emitters, and the placement of the water source.
Sprinkler system layout: Sprinkler systems are also a popular option for home gardens, as they provide even water distribution across a large area. When designing a sprinkler system, you need to consider the type of sprinkler head to use, the spacing of the heads, and the placement of the water source.
Computerised Watering Systems: If you want to take your irrigation system to the next level, you can opt for a computerised watering system that can be programmed to water your garden automatically at specified times. These systems are especially useful if you have a large garden or are frequently away from home.
How to Choose the Right Type of Irrigation System for Your Property
Before choosing the ideal type of irrigation system for your property, first you have to measure the size, layout, and type of plants you have in your property. Some of the best home irrigation systems include:
Underground sprinklers for small yards: If you have a small yard, an underground sprinkler system can be a good option, as it provides even water distribution and eliminates the need for manual watering.
Above-ground sprinkler systems: These sprinkler systems are easy to install and can be adjusted to provide water to specific areas of your garden. They are also relatively affordable.
Drip irrigation systems: Drip irrigation systems are ideal for gardens with plants that require consistent watering. They can also be adjusted to provide water to specific areas of your garden and are highly efficient in terms of water conservation.
The Role of Technology in Making Irrigation Design More Efficient and Sustainable
The way we irrigate our gardens has evolved thanks to technology, making it simpler and easier to conserve water and guarantee the watering of plants at the exact time. The following are some of the most significant technological developments in irrigation design:
Automated sprinklers: By programming automated sprinkler systems to water your garden at predetermined intervals, you may avoid manually watering your plants while still giving them a steady supply of water. Additionally, they can be altered to take into account variations in the climate. Soil moisture and other elements that influence plant development.
Smart water management systems: These systems employ sensors and other cutting-edge technology to continuously monitor environmental elements such as weather patterns, soil moisture levels, and other environmental considerations. The irrigation system is then adjusted based on the data, ensuring that plants receive the ideal amount of water without wasting any.
IoT-enabled gardening: With the advent of smart sensors and tools that allow for remote monitoring and management of irrigation systems, the Internet of Things (IoT) has also had a significant impact on irrigation plan design. With the help of this technology, you can control the irrigation system and monitor the water usage in your garden from any location using a smartphone or other internet-capable device.
How to Calculate Water Demand and Usage in Your Irrigation Design
Calculate your garden's water demand and usage to make sure your irrigation system is using water effectively and efficiently. A water budgeting calculator is a helpful tool for estimating water demand and usage. It estimates the amount of water your garden needs by taking into consideration variables like soil type, plant type, climate, and irrigation system type. You can confirm that your irrigation system is using water effectively and efficiently, preventing water waste, and fostering sustainability by using this tool.
Conclusion
A well-thought-out irrigation plan design is crucial for fostering healthy plant development, water conservation, and time- and labour saving garden upkeep. It's crucial to take into account the shape of your garden, the kinds of plants you have, and your water source when developing an irrigation plan, as well as the most recent developments in irrigation design technology. You can make sure that your irrigation system is optimized for optimal effectiveness and sustainability by considering these elements and using resources like water budgeting calculators.
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The Complete Murraya Hedges, Plants, and Trees Growers Guide 2023
Murraya hedges, also known as orange jessamine or Chinese box, are a popular choice for hedges and screens due to their attractive glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers. In this article, we will discuss different types of Murraya hedges and where to grow them, as well as answer some of your questions, such as "how to propagate Murray hedges from cuttings."
What Kinds of Murraya Hedges Are There?
There are several different types of Murraya plants, including Murraya paniculata, which is the most common variety and can grow up to 3 metres tall, and Murraya exotica, which is a smaller variety that grows up to 1.5 metres tall.
To care for Murraya hedge plants, it is important to provide them with well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and regular watering. They also benefit from regular fertilisation and pruning to promote healthy growth and shape. The best time to prune them is early summer or late spring.
Murraya Hedge Flowers and Fruits – What You Need To Know And How to Care for Them
The flowers and fruits of Murraya hedging are small and white, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a small, round berry that is green when unripe and turns black when ripe. But how do you care for the Murraya hedge plant and its fruits? It is important to provide the plant with the proper growing conditions, such as adequate sunlight and watering, as well as regular fertilisation. Let's look at the care routine in detail below.
Growing Murraya at Home
Growing Murraya at home is a great way to add some greenery to your home. They are known for their glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
First, it's important to note that Murraya are tropical plants and prefer warm, humid environments. They do well in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and thrive in bright, indirect light. If you're looking to grow Murray's indoors, a south- or west-facing window would be ideal. If you're planting them outdoors, make sure they are protected from strong winds and direct sunlight.
The Lowdown on Care and Maintenance
- When planting, make sure to dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. The depth of the hole should be the same as the depth of the root ball; this is how deep you plant a shrub. Murraya prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Once your Murraya is planted, it will need regular watering to establish its roots and keep them hydrated. Don't overwater plants because this can cause root rot. Murraya should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. In the summer, you may need to water them more frequently, while in the winter, you can reduce the frequency.
- Fertilizing your Murraya is also an important part of caring for them. They prefer a balanced fertiliser with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. They should be fertilised every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning is also an important part of maintaining your Murraya Hedges. They can grow quite large, so pruning will help to control their size and shape. The best time to plant shrubs in Melbourne is in the spring or summer. Prune your Murraya in the spring, after they have finished blooming. Cut back any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Growing Murraya at home is a great way to add some greenery to your home. They are easy to care for and maintain, but they do require regular watering, fertilising, and pruning. With the right care and attention, your Murraya will thrive and bring beauty and fragrance to your home for many years to come.
Murray's Frequently Asked Questions
How frequently do you water Murray's?
It is one of the common questions about growing Murrayas, and the answer is that it's best to water the Murraya regularly. The amount of water needed to keep your Murraya happy and healthy depends on the climate, the season, and other factors, such as soil type However, as a general rule of thumb, Murrays should be watered on average two to three times a week.
How often should Murray be fertilised?
Fertilize them at least once a month. When fertilising Murrays, use a balanced fertiliser and apply it according to the instructions on the packaging Generally, Murrays should be fertilised at least once a month to ensure they stay healthy and are able to achieve their best blooms.
How do we control pests and diseases?
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them promptly with fertilisers or pesticides. Murrays are quite susceptible to pests and diseases, so it is important to be vigilant in checking them regularly and treating any symptoms that appear quickly to avoid serious damage to the plants.
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9 Toxic Plants to avoid for pet friendly gardens
Some plants are toxic for a good reason. The toxins are usually naturally present in plants, but can sometimes be added by the use of insecticides. The natural toxins are usually secondary metabolites produced by the plant to protect themselves against various threats such as bacteria, fungi, insects and predators. Some of these natural insecticides are used as stimulants or medicines by humans. An example of this is caffeine.
Another natural insecticide, that Australians will be familiar with, is eucalyptus oil. The original inhabitants of Australia have been using these oils for tens of thousands of years for medicinal purposes and eucalyptus oil is now widely used by the pharmaceutical industry. The species often used for commercial essential oil production is the Tasmanian Blue Gum Eucalyptus globulus and the black peppermint tree E. salicifolia. The oil is often the active ingredient in inhalers and expectorants.
Plant toxins may enter the body either by inhalation, swallowing, or contact. The action mainly depends on their phytoconstituents like alkaloids, glycosides, proteins, tannins, terpenes and steroids. They act in the animal body by specific mechanisms, including receptors, transporters, enzymes and even genetic materials.
Your pet is more than just a companion animal, it is integral part of the family. Pets provide great physical and emotional benefits to the owner and family. Popular pets are often considered attractive in appearances, intelligence, and relatable personalities.
Keeping dogs and cats is very common throughout the world. Dogs are the best friends of humans. They form a strong emotional attachment to their owner. Recent research showed that owning a dog is good for your physical and mental health. Walking with a dog can provide both the human and the dog with exercise, fresh air, and social interaction.
Gardens are wonderful stimulating spaces for dogs. Because dogs can potentially cause havoc, too, digging up the plants and urinating on lawns. Therefore creating dog-friendly gardens is very necessary for you and your pet. Here are some ideas through which you can create a pet-friendly garden.
Make a stimulating garden
Creates different routes through the garden that clearly defined paths, playing digging areas. It will keep your dog stimulated. Different plants and ornamental grasses dance and sway and provides entertainment to your pet.
Plant vigorous plants
Dogs can damage young plants in your garden by digging them or running through them. Therefore always plant large, established perennials and choose robust plants.
Protect your plants and lawn
Dogs can destroy borders and lawns. So, create a selected area for digging and playing by using barks and sand. You can prevent the dog from running through your borders by creating paths through them or creating large boundaries and hedges.
Plant dog friendly plants
Use those plants which are non-toxic to dogs. Plant those plants which are dog safe and friendly and which will add colors to your garden. Many plants are dogs' favorite and friendly.
Avoid toxic plants
Several plants are poisonous to dogs. Consumption of these plants can cause symptoms from vomiting to serious illness and even death in some cases. Therefore avoid these plants from your garden and keep away your pet from these plants by fencing and hedging. Here are nine plants that are toxic to your pet.
AZALEAS
Azaleas are one of the most popular flowering shrubs, with hundreds of varieties that come in various forms and sizes. A type of Rhododendron, azaleas bloom primarily in spring, though some cultivars re-bloom later in the growing season. Nothing is more beautiful than an azalea shrub in spring bloom. It can be grown in nearly any garden, instantly adding interest and color to dull areas. Azalea bushes are also a valuable background plant in woodland settings and borders. This versatile shrub can be used for hedging, screening, or foundation plantings. Its smaller specimens are suitable for containers.
This one of the most beautiful plants is also one of the most poisonous. The entire azalea plant is toxic to dogs and cats, but it will also make horses, goats, and sheep sick. They contain a toxin called grayanotoxins. Eating these toxins could cause vomiting and diarrhea, and the long-term effects could be serious. So, if you have pets, pass on azaleas. If you already have them in your garden, you need to remove this dangerous plant or watch your animals.
DAFFODILS
Daffodils are easy, reliable, and perennial spring-flowering bulbs that grow in most regions. They multiply quickly and return to bloom again each spring, year after year. Daffodils add vibrant colours to every garden, larger or small. These plants give out fascinating blooms that make any landscape beyond impressive. Yellow is the most common colour for daffodils, but they also bloom in white, cream, orange, and pink. They can be mass planted under ground covers or mixed with shrubs and other perennials. They also work well as an edging ornamental plant in landscaping or mixed borders. Daffodils in pots are also popular as indoor ornamentals.
Daffodils are also poisonous and dangerous for your pet, especially dogs and cats. They contains a toxic chemical called lycorine, it can cause serious sickness, and in most cases, your dog will suffer from severe vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In most severe cases, your dog suffers from arrhythmias whose heart rate is too fast or slow. If you have seen your dog eat daffodils, you need to contact your vet.
ALOE VERA mild to moderate toxic plants
Aloe Vera is a species of the genus Aloe and a favourite for Palm Springs garden design. The leaves of Aloe Vera are succulent, erect, and form a dense rosette. Several species of Aloe Vera are cultivated as ornamentals and houseplants for their medicinal leaves. Aloe Vera can be used as a solitary focal point or massed in the landscape in a Mediterranean, drought-resistant garden. Small and medium Aloes are perfect for mixed containers or rock gardens.
Aloe Vera is not safe for dogs to ingest. This plant contains a chemical called anthraquinone glycosides. When your dog ingests this toxin, the intestinal bacteria metabolize it and form the compounds that increase mucus production and water in the colon. These can result in vomiting, severe diarrhea, and low blood sugar. The toxicity can be so extreme as to cause the breakdown of red blood cells, which can be fatal.
CHRYSANTHEMUM
Chrysanthemums, also called mums, are among the most popular fall garden flowers. It is a member of the Compositae family and is available in a wide range of brilliant colours, shapes, and sizes. Fresh chrysanthemums make gorgeous yard decorations, add spectacular waves of colour to yard landscaping in autumn and allow you to enjoy the fall flower versatility and elegance. Chrysanthemum flowers bloom in a range of colours in shades of white, yellow, orange, lavender, purple, red, and bicolour flowers.
Chrysanthemum is very poisonous for pets and dogs. It has a natural insecticide called pyrethrins which affects the sodium channel in dogs' bodies. As a result, overactivity is created in the central nervous system. In addition to that, hypersensitivity and respiratory failure occur, leading to death if not treated immediately. Symptoms of chrysanthemum poisoning in dogs are coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulty and blindness and much more.
TULIPS are toxic for dogs
Tulips are a genus of spring-blooming perennial herbaceous bulbiferous plants. They are among the most popular and colourful of all garden flowers, and numerous cultivars and varieties have been developed. There are hundreds of beautiful tulips to choose from in enough colours, shapes, sizes and bloom times to inspire the creativity of every gardener. Whether you plant them in groups of 10 or 1000, tulips always put on an impressive show. Tulips will fill your garden with colour long before most other plants have emerged from their winter sleep.
Tulips are not generally dog friendly and toxic for dogs. Many chemicals inside the tulip plant can cause skin irritation and hurt the mouth and throat. The poison in the tulip plant also causes gastrointestinal problems in dogs. This poison can also interfere with your dog's nervous system, making it difficult for them to move in severe cases.
IRISES
Iris is a genus of 260-300 species of flowering plants with showy flowers>irises are perennial plants growing from creeping rhizomes. They have a long, erect flowering stem that may be simple or branched, solid or hollow. The flowers are in the shape of a fan and contain one or more symmetrical six lobbed flowers. Irises are available in many varieties of colours and size, which it is suitable for every area of the garden. Iris flowers make spectacular additions to perennial borders. Irises also provide a beautiful contrast with ornamental sages and peonies.
Irises are toxic to all animals, including dogs, cats and even cattle. Irises contain irisin, which is known to be a primary toxic agent. If your dog eats irises, they may salivate, vomit, drool, have diarrhea or lose energy. Irises can also cause skin irritation. The severity of iris poisoning in pets varies depending on the amount of exposure and which part of the plant was ingested.
PEONIES
Are peonies poisonous to dogs?
The peony or paeony is a flowering plant in the genus Paeonia. Some perennials come back every year to take your breath away. The peony is beautiful in bloom with the fattest, most gorgeous flowers and lush green foliage. Peonies bloom from late spring through early summer, depending on your location and the variety. There are six types of peony flowers. Fragrances also vary, such that some flowers have intoxicating rose like scents while others are lemony or have no scent at all. Peonies make fine guards lining walkways or a lovely low hedge.
The peony plant is considered one that mild to moderate signs of poisoning. It contains phenol, which is toxic to dogs and can cause illness. Peonies can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, depression, stomach pain and decreased energy when ingested by your dog.
HYDRANGEAS
Are hydrangeas poisonous to dogs?
Hydrangeas have been popular ornamental garden plants for decades with flowers that come in a wide array of colours, including white, many shades of blue and pink, maroon, red and even pale green. Some hydrangeas have large, round flower heads, while others have smaller, flatter and more delicate flowers and varying foliage shapes depending on the species. Hydrangeas have a long blooming season and a beautiful display of flowers, so planting them in the front garden is a good idea to create an attractive landscape. Grow hydrangeas near the boundaries of your garden because the cool colour of hydrangeas near the borders creates an impression of enlarged space.
Contrary to its beauty, it is poisonous to cats and dogs. The toxic compounds in hydrangeas are cyanogenic glycosides. The most common symptoms associated with hydrangea poisoning are related to the gastrointestinal tract. Dogs or cats that consume enough hydrangea leaves, flowers and buds can suffer from vomiting and diarrhea.
LILIES
Lilies are among the most recognizable of all summer garden flowers. Their large, bright flowers suit all types of gardens. There are several modern hybrid varieties of lilies that offer colour, elegance, fragrance, and many modern landscapes. They fit into the smallest gardens, either in the open ground or in the pots. They mix well with roses, shrubs and perennials, adding summer colour and fabulous fragrance.
Lilies are toxic to dogs. Some species of lily are non-toxic but still cause illness if eaten. If your dog eats any part of the lily plant, it will probably show signs of gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
About 1000 species of plants in Australia are toxic to animals and humans, and plenty more cause skin and eye irritation, rashes and discomfort. These are always just as pretty as they are poisonous. Due to their beauty, these plants are always used in gardens. Therefore be careful if you are a parent or pet lover and keep the children and pets away from these plants. Fencing off or not growing poisonous and dangerous plants.
Invasive plants
A plant that is non-native and able to establish itself on many sites, grows quickly and spreads to the point of disrupting plant communities and the ecosystem. Invasive species adversely affect habitats and bioregions, causing ecological, environmental and economic damage. Many invasive weeds contain toxins that are dangerous to cats and dogs.
Toxic Invasive weeds in Victoria
Invasive weeds are plants that infiltrate the native environment and have the potential to harm the survival of native flora and fauna and the ecosystem's functioning. They include species imported to Australia from other nations and local species that have expanded beyond their original range. Invasive weed species are widely acknowledged as a severe danger to biodiversity worldwide. Their effect is expected to be worsened by their interaction with other new and present challenges like climate change. In Australia, around 1235 weed species, subspecies, varieties, and hybrids developed in native vegetation. Many of these invasive weed species contain toxins.
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5 Steps to Creating the Perfect New Lawn
A Perfect New Lawn can add a great deal of kerb appeal to a new home landscaped garden, as well as providing a recreation area for kids and dogs.
It is often a dream of home owners to have a beautiful patch of bright green lawn in their backyard. There is a lot that can be learned from professional landscapers and professional turf managers that can help make this dream a reality.
In some cases, you can apply professional landscaping techniques to your backyard lawn, but there are important differences.
New Lawn in Public Spaces
In commercial landscaping, lawns in public spaces are often subject to heavy pedestrian traffic. For this reason, a lot of effort is put in to make the lawn area free draining. Usually, public spaces like sporting grounds will have the benefit of full sun, whereas your backyard might not. Also, resources like plentiful supplies of recycled water and a large maintenance budget might not apply to your backyard lawn. There are still some techniques the home gardener can apply that will result in a great looking lawn.
Planning a New Lawn
The first step to any garden project is planning. Sketch your garden on a piece of paper, including any large trees and shrubs. Plan out where the drainage and irrigation will be installed as this will be the first step in the construction of your garden lawn. Check the area after rain to ensure the water drains away freely.
Plan the level you want the finished lawn to be and any lawn edging to be used. Decide the direction you want the surface water to drain towards. New lawns will require regular watering, so if possible, avoid planting in the summer. It is also important to plan the irrigation system at this early stage.
Take note of any areas of the lawn that have only a few hours of sunlight. These areas may require shade tolerant grass or may be unsuitable for lawn. If you have high traffic areas that will result in wear patches in the lawn, use some pavers. Permeable concrete pavers are good for this application.
Should you consider the alternatives to a lawn?
If your yard is steep or very shady, consider using a non mowing solution instead. This might mean using mulch, pebbles, or gravel.
Another solution is to use low growing ground covers or succulents. Two native Australian sustainable alternatives to lawn grass are Dichondra repens and the native violet, Viola hederacea.
Some exotic herbs can also be used such as mint, thyme or chamomile. If the area is difficult to access with a mower, or if it is too steep for even the Honda self propelled mower, then the alternatives should be considered.
Topsoil for your new lawn
Sporting grounds will normally have a thick layer of friable topsoil with a thick drainage layer underneath.
The grounds are usually quite flat so sub soil drainage is very important. For your backyard or frontward lawn, the ground can be sloped a bit more to aid with drainage. Depending on how well you can cultivate your subsoil, you might be able to get away with as little as 100mm of friable topsoil.
Cultivating the subsoil
Depending on the usage and the makeup of the layers below, you could probably get away with as little as 100 to 150 mm of topsoil for your garden lawn. For example, in green couch, Cynodon dactylon, the roots will penetrate the ground up to 1.5 metres deep, with much of the root mass at around 600mm deep. For this reason, the layer below the top soil needs to be suitable for root growth if you want your lawn to be drought tolerant. This can be achieved by cultivating organic matter into the subsoil and, in some cases, adding gypsum.
Organic Matter for the subsoil
It doesn’t matter whether your soil is acid or alkaline or if it is a sandy soil or a clay soil, organic matter will help. If you are digging in organic matter for a lawn, make sure it is really well spread. We have done this in the past with a rotary hoe. If your organic matter is in pockets in your soil, it will rot down over time and leave dips in your lawn. Try to keep the extra organic to less than 20% for this reason. Some sources of organic matter would be mixed animal manures, cane mulch, a manure crop or stable manure. You can even use potting mixes. Ideally the organic materials will be well composted before applying. Applying organic matter will help to reduce water usage and feed your lawn grasses. You will not see much use of organic matter on sporting fields as the priority is to create a safe even surface.
Levelling the topsoil
If the lawn is not reasonably flat, mowing will create bald patches on your lawn. Once a friable sandy loam topsoil has been laid, it can be levelled out using a pine retaining wall sleeper with a rope attached with screws.
Aim to level the topsoil around 12 millimetres below the edging to allow for the height of the grass. The actual allowance will depend upon the variety of grass and whether it you are using a roll out grass or growing lawn from seed.
Sowing the new lawn
Lawn-grass from seed.
Following the aeration, lawn seeds can be spread over the parts of the lawn requiring repair. Look for grass seed species suitable for your location. In South east Queensland, like Green Couch or Bermuda grass, Cynodon dactylon or Queensland blue couch, Digitaria didactyla, these varieties will take about a month to grow.
In Melbourne, look for a selection of grass seeds that includes couch grass. Fast growing Rye grasses can be used if you are planting in shady areas in the cooler months, but generally cool season grasses will not be a long term drought tolerant sustainable solution.
Top dress the lawn with a sandy loam. For smaller areas, a fine potting mix makes a good lawn top dress. The lawn can then be fertilised with chook pellets like Neutrog Rooster Booster or with Neutrog Seamungus soil and plant conditioner. Is necessary, top dress with some gypsum. Water with a fine mist using a soil wetter or a soil conditioner like Neutrog GOGO Juice.
Roll out Lawn
For instant effect, a roll out lawn can be used. This should be rolled out on even topsoil as soon as it is delivered. Start by laying the lawn along any straight lawn edges you might have in your garden design. Take care not to stretch the lawn rolls and push each roll firmly together without gaps.
Instant lawn
Top dress after rolling with a sandy loam or sand. A lawn roller will help to even the surface and keep the lawn roots in good contact with the soil. Another advantage of the roll out lawn is that you can use drought resistant hybrid varieties that cannot be grown from seed.
Hydroseed
For large commercial landscaping projects or large residential landscaping, hydroseeding is often used. Hydroseeding is a method in which a mixture of water, fertiliser, and grass seeds is sprayed over the area. Some local councils have seen problems with grass taking off with this method, so it is probably best to do this in autumn.
Lawn Maintenance
Your new or repaired lawn will need watering every day for a month. To save water use a soil wetter to minimise run off. Water in the evening to reduce losses due to evaporation. A liquid fertiliser high in nitrogen and iron will keep your lawn looking green.
5 steps to creating the perfect new lawn
- Plan the area and note the drainage, irrigation, and shade.
- Cultivate the subsoil with organic matter. If it is reactive clay soil, use gypsum.
- Use at least 100mm of friable topsoil for the lawn. Flatten with a wooden sleeper or large rake.
- Use grass varieties suitable for your area and the amount of shade.
- Maintain the lawn with frequent top dressing, wetting agents and liquid fertilisers.
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Alternatives to lawn
http://www.abc.net.au/gardening/stories/s1148898.html
http://www.edinburghgardenschool.com/2014/10/flocculation-dispersion-soils/
http://www.abc.net.au/gardening/stories/s1676965.htm
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/earth-sciences/impact/geology/london/ucl/materials/clay
How to keep your lawn healthy in colder weather
The winter is characterised with weeds, heavy soaking, low sunlight levels, and frost, which, for us humans, means rugging up, staying covered and resting mostly indoors. But for lawns, the winter is a critical time to survive and need as much help as possible to stay healthy. Here are tips to keep your lawn healthy during the colder months.
- Provide abundant sunlight to your lawn
It is advisable to leave grass clippings after mowing during the warmer months. This is because they can supply nutrients from the grass. Also, leaving behind grass clippings can save you lots of work.
But during the autumn and winter, you will be better off removing clippings and leaves from the turf. This way, your lawn will receive ample air and sunlight that it requires to survive during the cold months.
If there are lots of trees on your lawn, you should prune them to ensure your lawn receives more sunlight.
- Mow higher and less frequently
The first thing you will notice when the cooler months set in is that the rate of grass growth will become slower. When this happens, you are advised to raise the mowing height so as to avoid damaging the grass, something that can lead to browning and scalping. Frequent scalping in turns weakens the grass, leaving it exposed to weeds and diseases.
When mowing your lawn, avoid cutting the grass lower than 2.5 cm. Also reduce the frequency of mowing your grass like once every 3 or 4 weeks. You can also mow your grass when the grass blade length exceeds 6 cm.
- Aerate the soil
High traffic volume, coupled with higher lower temperatures, can make the soil to be more compacted. This, in turn, can prevent the roots of the grass from getting the optimal resources required for their thriving and growth. You can choose to manually perforate the soil using a hand rake. Alternatively, you can enlist the services of a professional to do the job for you.
- Fertilise
Although your grass will grow remarkably slower during the winter, it still requires a steady delivery of nutrients. Firstly, make sure your soil is checked to see what nutrients are lacking and then buy the right fertilizer that contains the right nutrient combination.
- Stop watering
You should desist from watering your lawn unless the grass appears very dry. And the best time to water your lawn is early in the morning. If you water your lawn too much during the colder months, it risks inviting fungi to your grass.
6. Weed Vigilantly
Weeds, unlike other types of turf, are unbowed by the harsh winter conditions. As a matter of fact, they appear to thrive in these unforgiving conditions. Be proactive and come up with a weekly weeding regimen to keep the unwanted plants in check.
Reds Landscaping Can Help!
Does it appear like the grass is always greener on the other side? Are your lawn care tips for the winter not working? Maybe you need to call in a pro. The experts at Reds Landscaping offer free tips and advice to help you keep your lawn and property in the best states. Just email or call us on 0424 350 910 for professional assistance with your lawn care this winter.
5 Steps for a Great Melbourne Lawn
Lawn renovation is best done in early Autumn in Melbourne gardens. Take the time to assess your lawn and plan for some renovation and repair work. Start by walking over your lawn and checking for any bald patches, or high spots or dips.
Lawn Irrigation Systems
Turn on your irrigation system and check if all parts of the lawn are getting adequate water. If you cannot push the tines of a fork into the bald patches, then the topsoil might be compressed or the irrigation might not be reaching that spot. Also check for weeds and other pests and diseases whilst you are there.
What is the best treatment for grass?
Step 1: Lawn Weed Removal
The first step in a successful lawn renovation is to remove the weeds. If the weather is sunny, you could use a selective spray, but do not be afraid of digging the weeds out by hand.
Step 2: Aeration of the Lawn
To make this job easier, give the grass a really good soak or do it just after a good rain. Using a granulated or spray on soil wetter will help too. The slugs of soil should come up the aerator tines and drop out onto your lawn.
If you have a smaller area of lawn, then Bunnings has a hand held aerator that is reasonably priced. You can get a cyclone aerator at around $55–$60. This is money well spent.
Hand Held Aerator. Great for renovation work.
The holes made by the aerator will allow oxygen, water, and nutrients to quickly get to the roots. This is especially important if you have some high traffic areas that may have had some compression and wear.
Step 3: Over Sow Grass Seeds
If you have hybrid roll out grass, then you will not find grass seeds of the exact same type of grass. Your local plant nursery will be able to suggest something that looks similar. Sowing lawn seeds in early Autumn means that the new lawn grass has all winter and spring to get established before the next hot summer.
Step 4: Top dress the lawn
Top dress with either a high quality sandy loam with a little organic matter or a course sand. The course sand works well in high traffic areas, but a topsoil high in organic matter is better at holding moisture. For real problem areas, try top dressing with a cheap fine textured potting mix. When topdressing, take care to fill any low points and bring the level up evenly to any paths or edges. Protruding pavers can make a real mess of your mower blades if the lawn is lower than your pavers. Depending on the type of topsoil you have, you may want to topdress with some gypsum to break up the clay. The gypsum will penetrate deep into the lawn through the aeration holes.
Topdressing with cheap potting mix
For small bald patches in your lawn, a cheap fine potting mix can be a good alternative to sandy loam. The whole nature strip below has been repaired this way, and the rapid growth in the grass is amazing. The potting mix helps to keep the grass seeds moist for germination and can provide some protection from birds.
Step 5: Apply Soil Wetter and liquid fertilizer to your lawn
Give your grass a liquid fertiliser like Neutrog Seamungus as well as some more soil wetter. The liquid fertiliser will encourage plant and root growth. The soil wetter is required as often the top dress soils are hydrophobic, resulting in the water just running off the soil. If you repeat this last step for 3 or 4 weeks, the results will be amazing.
The Lawn Topsoil Conundrum
For hard wearing lawns, the topsoil needs to be a sandy loam. This type of topsoil should also be used when topdressing the high traffic areas of your lawn. This will also mean that the area will require regular watering or an irrigation system to stay green as the soil moisture content will be lower in these areas. One solution to this problem is to use a product like Neutrog Seamungus after aerating to help the soil retain moisture. We have had some success using this product on some of our commercial landscaping lawns.
Restoring Commercial Landscaping Lawns
When restoring commercial landscaping lawns, many of the same principles apply as they would to a very large residential area.
The use of mechanical spreaders and mechanical aerators is required to do economical restoration of a large area. Many lawns in public spaces need to be very hard wearing, so sandy loam topsoils and irrigation systems using harvested rainwater are often used. Often, there is a trade-off between attractive green grass and sustainability, with areas browning off a little over summer. Couch grass will often brown in the colder months, but this is not a major concern either.
Many commercial landscapes will use a hard wearing kikuyu in either an instant roll out or by hydroseeding or hydromulching.
The Lawn in Landscape Design.
The lawn has been part of landscape design for centuries. Lawns were established as a vital element of garden design during the 18th century. Eighteenth-century landscape designers stylised English pastoral scenery around English Manor Houses as a central part of the landscape design. In those days, cheap labour with scythes enabled lawn maintenance on the rolling green hills close to the stately home. With modern landscape design, the maintenance of the lawn is a critical factor in good landscape design. The grassed area cannot be too steep or uneven for mowing with a rotary mower. Our 3D design package enables all of these items to be checked as part of the landscape design package.
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How to improve hydrophobic soil
5 Top maintenance tips for a great Melbourne Garden
Caring for your new Landscaped Melbourne Garden
If you have just spent tens of thousands of dollars on your new landscape garden, then you will probably be looking at ways to protect that investment. Ongoing gardening maintenance for your new Melbourne garden will help to protect and enhance your property value.
In the past, it was normal to have irrigation systems with pop up sprinklers giving everything a thorough soaking. Often, we would see lots of water running down driveways and streets, resulting in a huge waste of water. Water is much too precious and expensive a resource to do that with these days.
Pop-up sprinklers are also very prone to damage, so a lawn mower or vehicle can easily cause a lot of expensive damage to a pop up sprinkler system. Also, the irrigation systems are designed and installed to not only save water but also bias the flow towards plants that need watering the most. As a result of this, your new landscape Melbourne garden is vulnerable to drought and dry weather until the root systems can get fully established. To lessen the effects of dry weather, landscape gardeners will favour the use of higher quality top soils with a good amount of organic matter. Different top soils are used for lawns as a hard-wearing lawn needs to have a very free draining topsoil. This can have an effect on water conservation, however.
To make the best use of the water available, soil wetting agents and fertilizers are spread over the finished gardens and lawns. Top quality mulch with a slow breakdown is used as much as possible. Despite all of this, new landscape gardens, and in particular lawns, require extra care or gardening maintenance in the early stages of getting established.
Lawn Care maintenance for your new Melbourne lawn.
The new roll out lawn has very short roots. To give the roots good contact with the topsoil, new lawns are given a light roll and top-dress when laid. For the first two weeks, as the roots are minuscule, the lawn should be hand watered for at least an hour per day. Watering first thing in the morning is best, as less water is lost to evaporation from the hot sun. Evening watering is also good, but there is a slightly higher risk of fungal diseases if the lawn is damp all night. Always check if there are local watering restrictions in place.
Watering your new lawn
As the lawn's root system becomes established, the watering frequency can be reduced to twice per week. Check the grass joins for any signs of distress. If the grass is starting to brown around the joins and the joins are not closing up, then more watering is required. Spraying on a liquid fertiliser and plant tonic like Neutrog Seamungus Liquid can be a great help to stimulate the root growth of your new lawn. If the new lawn does dry out, use a spray on soil wetter to prevent the water just running off the lawn. Depending on the weather and garden maintenance, there should be enough root growth for the irrigation system to maintain the lawn after about 9–11 weeks. These measures will also make your new lawn more drought tolerant.
Lawn Weed Control
An essential part of gardening maintenance is lawn weed control. As part of your ongoing lawn maintenance, it is important to remove any lawn weeds before they can get established in your lawn. Some aggressive grass weeds will spread rapidly and ruin your new lawn before you know it. This is where having a maintenance gardener who is an expert in plant identification is of great benefit. Lawn weeds need to be identified and appropriately and thoroughly eliminated from the new lawn. The best protection from weeds is a healthy sward of lawn growing vigorously.
Ongoing lawn maintenance
To keep your lawn looking great, the lawn should be aerated, and top dressed every Autumn. The organic matter in high quality top soil can settle or break down a little over the first 12 months, so the lawn should be checked over for any unevenness or sinking relative to paths and lawn edging. Early Autumn is also ideal for checking on the effectiveness of the irrigation system as dryer areas of lawn will be easier to spot.
Ongoing Gardening Maintenance Melbourne
Maintenance for Melbourne garden Garden Beds
As with the new lawns, it is also important that the garden beds are checked for any weeds trying to take over. Again, a qualified horticulturist who is an expert at weed identification is best placed to protect your landscape garden investment. Mulch should also be replaced as it rots down, and the condition of garden edging and irrigation systems should be checked.
In the first few weeks after planting a new garden, the garden should be watered by hand twice a week. Use of a plant tonic like Neutrog Seamungus will also help to get your plants established.
Gardening Maintenance and Hedge Trimming
A garden hedge that is not regularly trimmed will soon get out of hand. To look their best, the hedges need to be regularly shaped. If the hedge grows too tall, it becomes difficult to maintain. Hedges that have gone out of shape often need to be cut back hard, which gives them a bare appearance.
Related Landscaping Ideas from Red's Landscaping
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Contact us
For Gardening Services or help with the design and development or your landscaping ideas, contact one of our experienced Landscape Gardeners. We can help with small garden design all the way up to Commercial Landscape design. Our specialities include fast growing screening plants, plant health and horticulture, garden lighting and outdoor pool landscaping ideas.
For some landscape garden design ideas, take a look at our Garden Design blog.
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Gardening Services Melbourne
Gardening Services is one of the gardening and landscaping services provided by Red’s Landscape Gardening. We believe that excellent garden maintenance is both great for your business image and great for property values.
Gardeners Melbourne
Our experienced and expert technical staff have knowledge not only in landscape design and construction but also in chemistry, horticulture, biology, floriculture, infrastructure, turf systems, and irrigation. All up we have over 50 years of garden maintenance behind us as well as the technical knowledge to make a garden look great. Our team of experienced landscape gardeners take a pro-active approach to gardening services. We can even suggest a few landscaping ideas during our visits.
Garden Maintenance Plan
To fit within your budget, we have come up with a four-tiered garden maintenance plan. Each of these will give you an excellent return on your investment and give your house or business instant kerb appeal.
Service |
Platinum |
Gold |
Silver |
Bronze |
| 1) Lawn mowing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2) Brush cutting | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3) Hedge Trimming | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 4) Tree Planting | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| 5) Tree Pruning | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| 6) Palm tree cleanup | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| 7) Examination for Pests and diseases. | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| 8) Pest and Disease Control Plan | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| 9) Pressure Cleaning. | ✓ | |||
| 10) Irrigation System Repair or upgrades. | ✓ | |||
| 11) Garden Lighting repair or upgrades. | ✓ | |||
| 12) Paving repairs | ✓ | |||
| 13) Fence Repairs | ✓ | |||
| 14) Drainage Checks. | ✓ | |||
| 15) Mulching. | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| 16) Lawn Aeration | ✓ | |||
| 17) Fertilizer application. | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 18) Soil wetter application | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 19) Garden Bed weeding. | ✓ | |||
| 20) Soil Amelioration / Amendments. | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| 21) Planting and care of annuals. | ✓ |
Pressure Cleaning of Decks and Pavers.
Pressure cleaning your decks and paving will make your garden safer and more attractive. If you are looking to enhance your property for sale, this will really give your property a boost.
Garden mulch for low maintenance gardening.
To keep your garden looking healthy, and to save on water, mulch should be topped up regularly. Some species of plants can suffer from collar rot if mulch is applied to the trunk. Experienced landscape gardeners and qualified horticulturists will know this.
Hedge Trimming gardening services.
A well maintained, neatly trimmed hedge looks great on commercial, residential and body corporate sites. Our keen eye for detail will keep your hedges looking pristine and neat.
Tree planting by experienced Landscape Gardeners.
When planting trees, an experienced landscape gardener will make sure the hole is an adequate size and correct soils and fertilisers are used. As part of our Gold and Platinum packages we will prune and maintain you trees. Small trees will be replaced as part of the package, but the cost of the tree itself is not included.
Minor Fence and Gate Repairs
A fence in a state of disrepair can be both a security and a safety issue. As part of our Platinum package, we will check on the safety of your fences and carry out minor repairs.
Garden Maintenance Plans include Soil wetter granules.
Our garden maintenance plans include the use of soil wetters and the most appropriate fertilisers for your garden. This will save on watering and keep your garden looking great. An uneven lawn is difficult to mow and can become a tripping hazard. We will check your lawns and recommend an appropriate treatment.
Soil wetter and Top Dress gardening services.
Irrigation maintenance and repairs.
A well maintained irrigation system will save water and keep your plants healthy. Minor irrigation system repairs are included in our Platinum garden service package. As installers of premium irrigation systems with WIFI controllers, solenoids, manifolds and fertiliser dosing, we know what makes these systems tick. We can check liquid fertiliser levels and make sure your system is working efficiently.
Drainage Maintenance gardening services.
Our Platinum gardening service includes minor repairs and cleaning of drainage pits and checking for blockages. This can help prevent an expensive flood when the heavy rains come.
Other Gardening Services. – Lawn Mowing
Contact us to find out how to make Red’s Landscape Gardening your property management partner.
Contact us
For Gardening Services or help with the design and development or your landscaping ideas, contact one of our experienced Landscape Gardeners. We can help with small garden design all the way up to Commercial Landscape design. Our specialities include fast growing screening plants, plant health and horticulture, garden lighting and outdoor pool landscaping ideas.
For some landscape garden design ideas, take a look at our Garden Design blog.
By Callum O’Brien
More Information on Mulches from Gardening Australia
© Copyright 2020 Red’s Landscape Gardening – Melbourne Landscaper
Dog Friendly Landscape Design
Dog friendly landscape design often involves a play area with a nice patch of lawn. People often ask how can I have a nice garden with my dog? A small path of lawn will provide recreational space for children and pets in your backyard and is one of the best dog garden ideas.
Landscape Design with Dogs in Mind
In this landscape garden design, a stepped brush fence creates a screen for the colorbond garden shed. If you have a lot of brush fence, consider breaking it up with some vertical gardens. Having a shed in the backyard means that all of the fertilizers, garden machinery, and fuel can be safely locked away from the dog. A grevillea and a feature garden, as well as screening plants, add to the effect that makes the small garden appear larger than it actually is.
The lawn creates a valuable space for pets to play or for entertaining guests, as well as contrast and a beautiful green space for the garden.
What ground cover is safe for dogs?
Dog friendly garden surfaces
Hard wearing couch lawn can be an ideal surface for pets and children to play on.
Couch Grass Santa Ana couch
The grass chosen was Santa Ana couch (Cynodon dactylon x Cynodon transvaalensis), which is a hybrid variety of Nullarbor couch. Its soft mat is ideal for pets and small children. If you are in a colder climate, your couch may go a little brown over winter. In this picture, you can see where the shadier part of the lawn has just started to brown. This is a temporary condition, and your couch will revive once the warmer weather returns. If your dog likes to wee on the lawn, keep a bucket of water or a hose handy to wet the lawn down where your dog has been. The key to making the lawn child and dog friendly is in the layers below the lawn's surface. The lawns should be laid on a sandy loam soil to maintain a soft surface in the case of falls. See our blog on lawn care for more information.
Garden Design
The lawn slopes gently down to a stained sleeper edge and a raised garden bed. The blue pansies contrast beautifully with the white alyssum and white garden chairs. Herbs for the kitchen are also grown in this raised garden bed. Raised garden beds and pots help to keep young dogs and puppies away from plants. The landscape garden design features wooden decking and a rendered concrete retaining wall. Pavers sunk into the lawn help to reduce wear marks and create a contrast with the rich green couch lawn. The potted plant and pedestal, along with the pavers, create an illusion of depth for this landscape garden design. The lawn pavers lead to garden steps to access the lawn area.
In this landscape garden design, sandstone edging is used at the top of the antique slate step. The sandstone provides a wonderful contrast to the lawn and its neat edge helps with garden maintenance of the lawn edging. The steps can be used as seating for entertaining as well as providing access to the lawn area. Small dogs and older people might struggle with steps this height, so a dog ramp is provided at the edge of the lawn. This ramp also helps when the mower needs to be brought out to the front yard.
How can I protect my garden from my dog?
Gardens can be protected from your pet dog by raising them up or using concrete or terracotta pots. Vertical gardens are another way of having a nice, safe garden with your dog. Avoid the use of lightweight plastic pots.
Plants to avoid for Pets and Children
For pets and small children, there are many plants that should be avoided. There are plants that are toxic to pets, and some that will cause skin irritation. For example, Moses in the Cradle (Tradescantia spathacea) and Zebrina ‘Wandering Jew’ (Tradescantia zebrine) should be avoided if you have a dog, as they have been associated with allergic skin disease.
Other plants to be avoided include holly, poinsettias, cycads, and oleander. Another plant to avoid is Duranta erecta, which is often sold as a hedge plant but is poisonous for your pets and children. When planning your garden, talk to the horticulture expert at your local plant nursery for help with pet friendly plant selection. Even the pebble mulch we have used in this garden will be a problem if your dog likes to chew on stones. It is important to keep your dog entertained with toys and chew bones, as well as keep an eye on them in the garden.
Dog friendly Plants for Australian Gardens
For dog friendly garden plants, take a look at Salvia leucantha, or Mexican Bush Sage, and similar plants. Always check with your local qualified horticulturist when you are buying plants.
Plants in pots.
For splashes of colour around the garden, viola, pansies, and lobelias were added to the shrubs growing in pots. It is out of reach of puppies and small dogs. Snail pellets should also be avoided if you have a puppy or small dog.
Plants in Vertical Gardens and Garden Walls
Another effective way to keep your pet and garden separate is to use a vertical garden or a garden wall. This will mean that your plants are safe from your new puppy and your new puppy is safe from your plants.
Dog Friendly Paved Courtyard
This landscape garden design features a paved courtyard. A dark green magnolia grandiflora "little gem" was planted in a square garden pot. The pot was painted dark brown to create an aged ceramic look. (The pot is actually fiberglass.) As its name suggests, this little gem is a compact variety of magnolia. It will help give your garden a tropical feel.
The orange marigolds go well with the blue lobelia and dark green Magnolia. Around the pot you can see the start of a box hedge and the pebble mulch. In the background, climbing roses in concrete pots and wall mounted pot plants add to the effect.
Magnolia grandifolia ‘Little Gem’ is a compact cultivar that will flower at a young age. Shiny oval-shaped leaves are dark to mid-green. Large creamy-white chalice-shaped flowers are very fragrant. You will see these flowers appear through summer and autumn. A slightly acidic, rich soil with plenty of organic matter is recommended. In this courtyard, the plant is protected from hot northerly winds. The elevated pot keeps the plants out of reach for puppies and small dogs.
Commercial Landscaping of Public Spaces
Public spaces around commercial buildings are often used by members of the public to walk their dogs. During commercial landscaping of these spaces the commercial landscaping contractor as we as the landscape architect need to be aware of any toxic plants on the plantlist.
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