It’s been a million years (well, 5, to be exact) since I’ve written a blog post, but with the advent of spring and shaking things up a bit around here, it’s lovely to be here again. I promise I won’t leave it as long between visits! Hello!
Collaboration is at the heart of everything I do, and I’ve known Sandy of Acre of Roses since my early days at Oak & Monkey Puzzle. She’s supplied my workshops with fragrant garden roses, and we’ve co-hosted workshops together. It was lovely to be able to contribute to Sandy’s latest blog by answering some questions about how I’ve ended up where I have, what’s influenced me, and to share my top three tips for home gardening success.
1. How did you first become interested in landscape architecture and design?
I think my passion for landscape architecture and design started in my childhood. A dear family friend who I call my ‘other mother’ introduced me to the joy of gardening, letting me dig and explore in her beautiful Melbourne garden. I would take home a cutting or a few seeds, eager to nurture something new. This early love for gardening evolved as I grew older. Initially, I took on Architecture but found my calling in landscape architecture. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work on some incredible public projects, like The Australian Garden (Stage 2) at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, where I honed my skills and allowed my creative interests and love of artisanship to flourish.
2. What inspired you to create Little Cottage on the Hill, and how has it evolved over time?
Little Cottage on the Hill was born from my desire to distil the rich lessons I learned during my years at Oak & Monkey Puzzle into a more intimate space. Moving to this 515m² property in Daylesford allowed me to reimagine what a productive garden could be in a smaller setting. It’s been a journey of creativity and experimentation, transforming every tiny bit of this space into a functional, sustainable, and beautiful garden that embodies my growing passion for living simply and thoughtfully with the land.
3. How do you incorporate sustainable practices into your work and personal life?
Sustainability is woven into the fabric of everything I do, both in my work and at home. At Little Cottage on the Hill, I’ve embraced sustainable practices like no-dig gardening, heavy mulching, incorporating chickens into the garden systems and clever waterwise solutions like transforming IBCs (intermediate bulk containers) into wicking beds. I love reusing and reimagining materials—there’s a certain joy in taking something utilitarian and giving it new life with beauty in the garden. For me, living sustainably is about working with the land, minimising waste, thinking about closed-loop systems and making every element serve a purpose whilst providing aesthetic interest. For me, sustainable and productive gardens can be places of beauty and add richness to everyday life whilst being bountiful and treading the earth lightly.
4. How does the climate and environment in Daylesford influence your design choices?
Daylesford’s rich volcanic soils, distinct seasons, and unique climate are constant companions in my design process. I’ve learned to create gardens that are as responsive and adaptable as the environment itself. Each season brings its own beauty, and I design with that in mind—whether it’s the vivid red stems of Cornus in winter or the lush growth of summer. Understanding and embracing the natural rhythms of this place is key to creating gardens that truly belong to their environment.
5. What are some of your favourite local plants and materials to work with?
I’m particularly fond of working with plants that provide all-year interest, whether through flowers, seedheads, winter filigree of branches or foliage. I have a soft spot for the wide array of perennials, grasses, and medicinal plants that thrive here in Daylesford. I’m also passionate about heritage fruit trees—crabapples, pears, quince, and apples—trained as espaliers. They not only produce beautiful fruit but also add structure and texture to the garden. As for materials, I love incorporating elements like Wattle and Wire fencing (www.wattleandwire.com.au), recycled timber, and reinforcing mesh— the materials I choose are always mindful of ensuring they contribute to a cohesive and visually rich garden space.
6. How has the community in Daylesford influenced your work and personal life?
The community here in Daylesford has been an incredible source of support and inspiration. From my early days at Oak & Monkey Puzzle to the creation of Little Cottage on the Hill, I’ve been surrounded by people who share my love for gardening, creativity, and connection. The ethos of generosity and collaboration that grew at Oak & Monkey Puzzle continues here, where the local community has embraced the garden’s transformation. It’s a privilege to share this journey with them, and their involvement has deeply enriched both my work and personal life.
7. What are your top 3 tips for our readers when it comes to gardening success?
• Start Small and Plan Carefully: Begin by truly understanding your space—its soil, climate, and potential. Thoughtful planning can transform even the smallest area into a thriving garden that works in symbiosis with its context and environment.
• Embrace Sustainability: Integrate sustainable practices like no-dig gardening, heavy mulching, and waterwise techniques. Reuse materials creatively to reduce waste and create a garden that’s as kind to the planet as it is beautiful.
• Learn and Adapt with the Seasons: A garden is never static; it evolves with the seasons. Embrace this change, experiment, and let each season guide you. There’s a joy in discovering new possibilities as your garden grows and adapts.
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