The Art of Planting Design
Planting design is where gardens truly come alive. While hardscape provides structure, plants provide the colour, texture, movement, and seasonal change that make gardens magical. Great planting design balances beauty with practicality, creating compositions that thrive and look good year-round.
Our Approach to Planting
Right Plant, Right Place
The foundation of successful planting design is matching plants to conditions. We thoroughly assess your site – soil type, sun exposure, drainage, microclimate – and select plants that will genuinely thrive, not just survive.
Layered Planting
We design in layers – canopy trees, understorey trees, large shrubs, small shrubs, and groundcovers. This creates depth, habitat, and visual richness while maximising the use of space.
Year-Round Interest
A well-designed garden offers something every month. We plan for:
- Spring bulbs and flowering trees
- Summer colour and fragrance
- Autumn foliage and seed heads
- Winter structure and evergreen framework
Ecological Value
Plants do more than look pretty. We consider their ecological value – providing food and habitat for birds and pollinators, improving soil health, and contributing to local biodiversity.
What We Consider
Form and Structure
We select plants for their form – upright, spreading, weeping, architectural – creating compositions with variety and contrast.
Texture
Mixing fine-textured foliage with bold leaves creates visual interest. We use texture to create rhythm and focal points.
Colour
Beyond flowers, we consider foliage colour through the seasons. Silvers, purples, lime greens, and variegations all contribute to the palette.
Maintenance Reality
We’re honest about maintenance needs. Every garden requires some care, but we design for your available time and interest level.
Native, Exotic, or Both?
We work with whatever plant palette suits your garden:
- Native gardens that support local wildlife and connect with the Australian landscape
- Exotic gardens with proven performers from around the world
- Mixed plantings combining the best of both worlds
The choice depends on your preferences, site conditions, and desired effect.
Ready to create a thriving, beautiful planting scheme? Contact us to discuss your planting design needs.
