Leading nature up the garden path

Imagine a wildlife oasis full of butterflies and birds, and a rainbow of flowers year round.

Many residents across the shire are already using native plants to create stunning gardens – havens for wildlife and humans alike – and you can too. All it takes is a bit of planning and the right choice of plants.

This weekend Eurobodalla Council will hold another of its popular plant swaps. Bring some environmental weeds from your garden to the Moruya Country Markets on Saturday 4 May and staff from Council’s environment team will swap them for local native plants.

Council’s natural resources supervisor Courtney Fink-Downes said the plant swap was a great way to kick-start a new garden, extend an existing one, or even work with neighbours to link wildlife havens together.

“As well as providing habitat, native gardens usually require less water and maintenance,” she said.

“If you are not sure where to start, bring along some photos of your garden and we’ll give you some suggestions on steps to take.”

Ms Fink-Downes said those unable to make Saturday’s market could organise a free garden visit.

“A member of Council’s environment team will come out to your place to identify weeds and make suggestions on suitable plantings and other nature-friendly garden features,” she said.

“The visit includes a voucher for plants from the nursery at the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden."

She said there was also plenty of inspiration to be found online.

“I like Backyard Buddies for do-it-yourself projects designed to attract native animals to your garden,” Ms Fink-Downes said.

For more information on the Council’s plant swaps or to book in a free garden visit contact Courtney Fink-Downes on 4474 7493 or [email protected].