CREATE A SHOWSTOPPER

THE WORLD OF GARDENING CAN SOMETIMES BE OVERWHELMING. IT CAN BE HARD TO KNOW WHERE TO START, WHAT PLANTS TO USE AND HOW TO TAKE CARE OF THEM.

But never fear, the owners of Leaves & Vines Nursey in Deniliquin — Kasey and Matthew Hilliard — want you to know you are in good hands. They have some great tips for your new garden. There are so many options, but according to Kasey it’s important you pick plants that look great, but also fit into your busy schedule. ‘‘People want something low maintenance, that also packs a punch,’’ she said. ‘‘We’re not just putting in a palm and calling it a day.’’ Adding colour, landscaping and foliage difference is trending right now. Cluster planting, with a focus on feature pieces, is also becoming popular. This is creating a more rustic and relaxed feel, with less repetition of plants. So what plants are best for the low maintenance garden? Here are some recommendations from Kasey. Eremophila – A low maintenance flowering shrub, which requires low to moderate water and can range in size from a low growing shrub to a small tree. Westringia – A type of mint, native to Australia that can be relied upon for rapid growth and abundant blooms. Teucrium – Also from the mint family, the Teucrium will thrive under a warmer climate and is drought tolerant. Rosemary and sage – Easy to grow herbs, which look great in your garden and taste even better in your kitchen. These herbs are easy to grow and thrive in warmer environments. Lomandra – A fast growing native with long green foliage. This plant is tough and will grow in any climate, and needs almost zero maintenance.

Grevillea – An evergreen shrub, with needle-like foliage and incredibly flamboyant flowers. They are fast growing, tough and require little maintenance. Salvia or garden sage – Also part of the mint family, salvias appear as a colourful spike of densely packed flowers and velvety leaves. They are heat and drought tolerant, making them a great summer plant. Feature trees – A garden is not complete until you add a feature tree. These can range from jacarandas to flowering gums or crabapples. All of these plants are low maintenance, drought tolerant and great for the Deni conditions.

“You have the benefit of a beautiful garden, without the upkeep,” said Kasey. You may even recognise a few on your way into Deni, featured underneath and around the famous welcome sign. If you are not already sold, these plants are also economically better options, giving you the same look with a far smaller price tag. If you are looking for someone to provide expert advice and take your garden to the next level this summer, give the team at Leaves & Vines a call. They can provide a full garden makeover, from the bobcat to new garden and aftercare. They also do lawns, including hydroseed, normal seed and turf. Call 0429 899 631 or visit in store at 214 Cressy St, Deniliquin.