A Garden for All Seasons
                             (5th November 2015)

I recently caught up with close friends Deb and Adrian to exchange cycling adventures, enjoy strong coffee, and of course, get excited about their lovely garden. The couple have been living at the leafy Southside property for a number of years with their daughters and menagerie of pets. The garden consists of several rooms which provide living spaces for people, pets, and wildlife.
 
The drought tolerant front garden boasts a wide range of native plants and trees including local plants indigenous to the Canberra region. Established Eucalyptus scoparia specimens set the scene, along with tree ferns, flowering shrubs, daisies and strappy-leafed grasses.  Two rare and endangered gum trees, Eucalyptus curtisii (Plunkett mallee) and E. burgessiana (Faulconbridge mallee ash), demand attention with their glowing foliage and ‘look-at-me’ flowers, form and bark. The garden theme extends beyond the property boundary, with the dry creek river bed flowing through to the neighbouring gardenscape.
 
Bursts of Monet-like colour balanced with foliage form and structure met me as we entered the side garden. Drifts of bearded iris originating from Deb’s parents’, cat mint, and newly planted roses are complimented by the paperbark tree growing in the neighbouring property. Up front and centre and in full bloom was the exquisite heirloom climbing rose ‘Zephirine Drouhin’, the scent and colour of which took me directly back to country life and childhood. This cerise pink French rose is known for its thornless stems and extended flowering season.
Reclaimed timber has been used for decking and privacy screens, combining function and aesthetics for a thoughtful outlook. I was more than mildly envious and wistful to see such creativity and DIY skills at play but appreciative all the same.
 
This summer the couple intend on incorporating edible herbs amongst existing garden beds, as well as installing a yumbo veggie patch in raised planters; both will complement the established veggie garden and chook house at Deb’s parents’ place.
 
Adrian is a landscape and garden consultant; for more:
changelandscapesolutions@gmail.com 
Or call him on 0417 589 099

Deb and Adrian's - Zephirine Drouhin climbing rose

Deb and Adrian's front yard

Deb and Adrian's back yard