Bush & Backyard | Australian Landscape Advice by Chicken Road

G'day! I'm Dave

I've been mucking about in Aussie gardens for over 20 years now. Started out helping me old man with his veggie patch in Newcastle, and now I help folks all over the country turn their outdoor spaces into something special.

Australia's tough on plants - scorching summers, drought, and clay that'd make a brick look soft. But with the right know-how, you can create a backyard that thrives despite it all.

This isn't about fancy-pants garden design that needs constant maintenance. It's about practical solutions that look great and work with our unique conditions. So grab a cold one, and let's get stuck into it!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Water Smart

Group plants with similar water needs together. This "hydrozoning" means you're not drowning your drought-tolerant natives while trying to keep the veggies happy.

Shade Solutions

Deciduous trees on the north side give summer shade and winter sun. Perfect combo that's been working since the first Aussie put up a Hills Hoist.

Fire Smart Landscaping

In bushfire-prone areas, keep plants low near the house, avoid mulch right up to walls, and choose fire-resistant natives like pigface or flax lilies.

Seasonal Garden Planning

Summer

Autumn

Winter

Spring

What to Do Right Now ()

Common Mistakes

1. Planting Without a Plan

Too many folks rush out to Bunnings without thinking long-term. What looks cute in a pot today might turn into a monster tomorrow. Take the time to research mature sizes before planting.

2. Overlooking Soil Health

Topsoil's often rubbish in new suburbs. Get your soil tested and amend it properly before planting. Otherwise you're just chucking money down the Chicken Road of disappointment.

3. Wrong Plant, Wrong Place

Don't try growing tropical plants in Adelaide or alpine species in Darwin. Work with your climate, not against it.

Native Plant Spotlights

Kangaroo Paw

Anigozanthos spp.

These ripper plants bloom for ages and attract nectar-loving birds. Drought-tolerant once established.

Full sun Low water Bird attractor

Grevillea

Grevillea spp.

Hundreds of varieties from groundcovers to trees. Bees and birds love 'em, and they laugh at drought.

Sun or part shade Low maintenance Bird-friendly

Lilly Pilly

Syzygium spp.

Perfect screening plant with lush foliage. Some varieties produce edible berries – great for jams.

Full sun to shade Moderate water Privacy screen

Quick Backyard Fixes

Instant Lawn Love

Give tired grass a sharpen up by mowing in alternating directions each time. Throw on some lawn food when rain's forecast – easy as.

Green Up Pots Fast

Got bare dirt showing in pots? Sprinkle some quick-growing microgreens like rocket or basil seeds. Looks lush and you can eat it too!

BBQ Area Refresh

Pressure wash pavers, repaint the fence with a fresh neutral, add some potted succulents. Suddenly the barbie area looks schmick.

Crafting Beauty in Your Aussie Backyard with a Touch of Chicken Road Charm