It is, therefore, wise to gather information on the needs of any species being considered, and if possible information on the performance of plants in cultivation in your area. This knowledge can be gained from studying books, talking to nurserymen or gardeners in your district, or by joining a group such as the Australian Plants Society (formally Society for Growing Australian Plants).

In many cases we have only ourselves to blame for poor growth or even the death of plants because we planted them in situations which really do not give them much chance of survival.

The following parameters are listed to help you choose suitable plants, or decide where a plant should be grown to achieve its maximum development, and thus give enjoyment to all who see it.

(a)  Most Australian plants prefer well drained soils.
The building up of garden beds, or provision of underground drainage can be beneficial by assisting to promote good plant growth.

(b)  If you add soil to your garden do not spread it on top, but ensure that you mix it thoroughly with the existing soil. This means that plants do not have to cope with different soil types as the roots penetrate through the various layers.

(c)  Use plants suited to specific locations, or if you wish to choose a particular plant of your liking, then locate it in a situation that is suited to its needs. Usually information as to where a plant occurs in its natural habitat is a good guideline. As an example, it is not realistic to plant shrubs from hot dry regions, into garden beds which face south and are subject to waterlogging. This may seem an extreme case, but unfortunately such errors do happen.

Do not plant shrubs that need full sun into shady areas. Their growth will be restricted and they can develop a "leggy" appearance. It is also likely that flower development will be poor.

(d)  Do not group together plants that will need diverse conditions. i.e. a plant that likes summer watering should not be planted next to one which likes dryish soil conditions.

(e)  Do not overwater Australian Plants. Many occur naturally in low rainfall areas, and are readily suited to long, hot summers. Again this emphasises the need to obtain information regarding particular plants and their requirements.

(f)  Most Australian Plants grow well with a minimum of fertilisers.

(g)  The use of groundcover plants as a living mulch can help to maintain a moist, cool root run which many lager plants appreciate. Groundcovers can also help to reduce weed growth.

Recommended Further Reading

GROW WHAT WHERE   Australian Plant Study Group. (Nelson, Melbourne)

ENCYCLOPAEDIA OF AUSTRALIAN PLANTS SUITABLE FOR CULTIVATION   Elliott W. R. & Jones D. L. (Lothian, Melbourne)