by Mark Evans
As winter arrives and the days grow shorter and darker, your garden doesn’t have to fade with the sun. You can overcome seasonal dreariness in the short term by adding colour with annuals such as calendula, pansies, primroses, violas or Iceland poppies. But, like a sugar rush, this colour burst is fleeting. To truly satisfy your craving for winter colour, think long-term. Plant perennials that bring lasting vibrancy and … Read more »
by Mark Evans
The genus Salvia is the largest in the mint family (Lamiaceae) and among the biggest in the entire plant kingdom – currently ranked twenty-fifth – with 1,024 recognised species and many more cultivars and hybrids.
The type species, Salvia officinalis (common sage), serves as the genus’s botanical anchor, defining the key traits shared by all other salvia species. Common sage has a rich history in traditional medicine. The Egyptians valued its healing … Read more »
by Mark Evans
Following another successful Sculpture Bermagui exhibition (a big shout-out to all the volunteers!) I thought this month we’d explore the theme of living sculptures, particularly topiary. While topiary is one well-known living-art form, other fascinating techniques include bonsai, espalier, and even crop circles!
Topiary combines horticulture and creativity and involves the careful trimming and shaping of plants into decorative forms. These can range from basic geometric shapes to elaborate spirals, animals, or abstract … Read more »
by Mark Evans
Succulents are unique plants known for their thick, fleshy tissues that store water, helping them survive in dry or arid environments. Many of these plants have special features, such as waxy coatings, spines or rosette formations that minimise water loss. This diverse group includes familiar species like cacti, aloe and jade plants, each with its own characteristics.
Found all over the world, succulents are especially … Read more »
by Mark Evans
Humans have been growing plants indoors for millennia. It likely began when the first ancient Egyptian plucked a lotus stem from the Nile River and placed it in a clay pot. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon – one of the seven wonders of the ancient world – may well have been the first true ‘urban jungle’.
Meanwhile, the Chinese were perfecting the art of bonsai, while … Read more »
by Mark Evans
Red, green and white are among the most popular colours associated with Christmas. This iconic combination is believed to originate from the English Holly (Ilex aquifolium) with its evergreen leaves and bright red berries. Amidst the European snow, holly symbolised hope during the depths of winter and was integral to ancient winter solstice celebrations, long before the advent of Christmas.
In Australia, however, holly berries ripen between May and August, … Read more »