23 Oct Best design aspects for low maintenance gardens

1. Choosing the right plants

Plants are generally the main aspect of landscaping so choosing the right ones is important.  There are several aspects to consider when choosing plants for your garden. Size, climate tolerance, water tolerance, looks, growing style and others.  The best plants to create low maintenance gardens in QLD generally have the following characteristics.  Drought tolerant, heat tolerant, non-invasive and a good balance of size.  The local native trees, shrubs, groundcovers and grasses are a great option when designing low maintenance gardens.  There are also many other similar plants that share characteristics and are also suitable.

2. Irrigation

Irrigation is an essential aspect for getting a garden established. Whether this is with an automatic system or manual all gardens and turf will need irrigation for the first 12 weeks of establishment.  Having an automatic system allows the for ease of maintenance as they can be programmed to suit the needs.  This saves time, water and the hassle of setting the irrigation up each time it is used.

3. Define the edges

Defining the edges between gardens and turf areas is critical when designing a garden. This can be done in many way’s timber, paver, concrete, plastic and even metal.  This prevents the turf and weeds growing into the garden areas and creeping plants encroaching on the turf. It also highlights the boundary which make the area look a lot neater.

4. Weed mat

Putting weed mat under mulched areas reduces the chances of weeds penetrating the garden.  If they do grow on the surface of the garden the they are lot easier to remove as the root systems are not into natural ground.

5. Quality materials

Acquiring quality materials is essential to the health and aesthetics of gardens. By using high quality materials, it reduces the risk of foreign plants, pests and diseases from being introduced to the area.  For example, if soil is reused there is increased risk of weed germination and less chance of plants surviving due to lack of nutrients.  Another example is if raw timber is used instead of treated for garden edging.  The raw timber will rot out a lot quicker than treated timber especially if it is partially buried in soil. It also increases the risk of white ants which then can go on to affect the structures in the vicinity of the gardens.

6. Planning area

It is often said that the planning of landscapes can “make or break” the surrounding areas in more ways than just aesthetics. There are a lot of aspects that affect the planning and construction of gardens.  This can include aesthetics, council regulations, geotechnical issues, drainage, natural surroundings, pollution management and the list goes on.  It is advisable to get professional advice and consulting when designing landscape areas.

Get in contact with Oasis Landscaping on (07) 3275 1811 or info@oasislandscaping.com.au to discuss your needs!