Green Manure - The Soil-Building Secret Most Gardeners Overlook

Green manure is one of the quiet achievers in my garden — and one of the most effective tools in my artillery. I’ve returned to it time and again to restore structure in compacted beds, improve soil biology, and give tired ground a season to rest and recharge.

Sometimes called cover crops, living mulch, or catch crops, green manure refers to fast-growing plants sown not for harvest, but purely for the benefit of the soil. Once they’re established, you cut them down before flowering and either dig them in or let them break down naturally on the surface.

It’s a beautifully simple process — and one that has the potential to completely transform the productivity and resilience of your garden.

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What Does Green Manure Actually Do?

Green manure works on many levels at once. It:

• Improves soil structure by breaking up compacted or heavy soils

• Feeds the soil by adding organic matter as it breaks down

• Fixes nitrogen through legumes like vetch, field peas and clover

• Suppresses weeds with dense ground cover

• Protects against erosion by shielding bare soil

• Holds moisture and supports soil microbes

Some crops, like mustard and marigold, even act as biofumigants — naturally suppressing nematodes and soil-borne diseases. It’s a gentle but powerful way to build healthier soil from the top down.

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What to Grow (and When)

The best green manure crops for your garden will depend on your climate and the time of year. Here’s a quick guide I use in my own garden in cool-temperate Victoria:

Cool-season crops (autumn–early spring):

• Field peas (Pisum sativum subsp. arvense) - also known as dun peas or forage peas

• Broad beans (Vicia faba) - also known as fava beans or tick beans

• Woolly pod vetch (Vicia villosa) - sometimes called hairy vetch or winter vetch

• Mustard (Brassica juncea, Sinapis alba) - often sold as white or brown mustard, and used as a biofumigant

• Grazing rye (Secale cereale) - also known as cereal rye or winter rye — not to be confused with ryegrass

• Oats (Avena sativa) - sometimes referred to as forage oats or cover crop oats

Warm-season crops (spring–summer):

• Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) - also known as Japanese buckwheat or summer cover crop

• Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) - sometimes called black-eyed pea or forage cowpea

• Soybean (Glycine max) - also referred to as soya or summer legume green manure

• Millet (Panicum miliaceum, Setaria italica) - includes Japanese millet, French white millet, and foxtail millet

• Lablab (Lablab purpureus) - also called hyacinth bean or dolichos lablab

• Marigold (Tagetes spp.) - including French marigold and African marigold; used as a natural pest deterrent

You can grow them as single species or in combination. I often mix oats for structure, legumes for nitrogen, and mustard to help manage pests — that balance seems to support the soil from all angles.

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How to Grow Green Manure

It’s easy to incorporate green manure into your rotation — whether you’re preparing a new garden bed or resting an existing one.

1. Clear any weeds or spent crops

2. Broadcast your seeds thickly and evenly

3. Lightly rake or cover with a layer of compost

4. Water well and keep moist during germination

5. Cut back just before flowering (6–10 weeks, depending on crop)

At this point, you can either dig the plants into the soil or, as I do, cut them down and let them become a green mulch. Over time, the roots decompose in place, creating beautiful pathways for air, water and life below the surface.

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Dig or No-Dig?

The traditional method is to slash the crop and dig it in. This speeds up decomposition and releases nutrients for the next planting.

In my garden, I do things a little differently. After a slow and thoughtful shift to no-dig practices, I now cut green manure crops at the base and leave the roots to decompose in place. The tops are laid as mulch, often with compost on top, and the bed is left to rest until the next planting. It’s a slower process, but I’ve found it strengthens the soil in the long term — especially in areas with compacted clay.

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Things to Keep in Mind

• Cut before flowering: If you leave them too long, they’ll go to seed and could become weedy.

• Allow time: Depending on your method, it can take a few weeks before the bed is ready to plant again.

• Monitor slugs: The lush growth can shelter them, especially in cooler months.

Choose manageable crops: Some, like rye, can be tough to slash and slow to break down.

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Green manure might not be the most glamorous feature of a garden, but it quietly supports everything else. It’s a gentle investment in the long-term health of your soil — something I’ve come to deeply value in my own journey as both a grower and a designer.

Used thoughtfully, it can be one of the most regenerative things we do in the garden. One season’s cover crop can lay the foundation for years of thriving productivity.

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Keen to learn more?

I’d love for you to join me at The Productive Garden Workshop, where I’ll walk you through the principles of productive garden design—green manure included! Together, we’ll explore how to nurture your soil, boost your garden’s resilience, and create something truly abundant. I can’t wait to share these practices with you and help you build a garden that thrives season after season.

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If you’d like to experience life here and this incredible space first-hand, I’d love to welcome you to one of my upcoming workshops. Come and walk the garden, learn something new, and connect with others creating lives rich in beauty, practicality and purpose.

Explore my workshops:

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

You may want to check out my related content below:

Soil Testing: Know Your Soil – Understand the importance of soil testing and how it can improve your garden’s productivity in my latest blog post.

Watering Deeply: The Key to Thriving, Resilient Plants – Watch my Instagram post for tips on how deep watering can help your plants thrive and become more resilient.

Explore both for a deeper understanding of garden care!

Thanks so much for reading and for sharing this garden journey with me.

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

How to Plant Garlic in Australia: A Practical Guide for Every Climate

Garlic is one of the most satisfying crops to grow. It doesn’t take up much space, it stores well, and once you’ve had homegrown garlic, the supermarket version just doesn’t compare. It’s stronger in flavour, fresher, and you know exactly how it’s been grown.

This guide walks you through how to grow garlic at home in Australia—step by step—with practical, seasonal insights and the science behind those long-held planting traditions.

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When Should You Plant Garlic in Australia?

There are two main planting windows people follow across the country:

1. March to May (autumn)

2. The winter solstice (around June 21)

Both can work well depending on your location, variety, and soil conditions.

In cool and mountain regions (like parts of Victoria, Tasmania, and the southern highlands), planting anytime from March to May gives your garlic time to establish roots before winter. Some gardeners prefer the tradition of planting on the shortest day of the year, allowing the bulbs to stay dormant through winter and take off once spring arrives.

In temperate and subtropical regions, earlier planting (from March) gives the garlic a head start before cooler days set in. The autumn equinox (around March 20–21) is often used as a reference point.

In tropical climates, garlic needs a bit more help—specifically cold treatment. You’ll need to vernalise your cloves by storing them in the fridge for 4–6 weeks before planting. Choose varieties suited to warmer conditions and be aware that bulb development can be less reliable in consistently warm climates.

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Softneck vs Hardneck Garlic: What’s the Difference?

• Softneck garlic (e.g., Artichoke, Silverskin, and Subtropical): Stores well, ideal for warmer climates, produces more cloves per bulb.

• Hardneck garlic (e.g., Turban, Creole): Suited to colder climates, often easier to peel and more complex in flavour, but doesn’t store quite as long.

Ask your local grower or seed supplier what’s worked in your region—they’ll usually know what varieties are best suited to your conditions.

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How to Plant Garlic: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare your soil

Garlic thrives in well-drained, fertile soil, ideally with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Dig through compost or well-aged manure and ensure good drainage—raised beds are great for this.

2. Break the bulbs into cloves

Use the largest, healthiest cloves. Leave the skin on and don’t peel them. Do this just before planting to prevent drying out.

3. Plant pointy end up

• Depth: 5 cm

• Spacing: 10–15 cm between cloves, 20–30 cm between rows

4. Water in well and mulch

Mulch with straw, sugarcane or lucerne to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and stabilise temperature.

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Caring for Garlic as It Grows

• Water consistently during active growth, especially in spring. Ease off once the leaves start to yellow.

• Feed with diluted seaweed solution or compost tea every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.

• Weed regularly—garlic doesn’t like competition, and mulch will help reduce weed pressure.

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Harvesting Garlic

Garlic is usually ready around 17–25 weeks after planting.

You’ll know it’s time to harvest when:

• The bottom leaves are yellow or brown

• The top few leaves are still green

Don’t wait until the whole plant dies back—you risk splitting or rotting in the ground.

To harvest:

• Gently loosen the soil with a fork

• Pull the bulbs carefully by the stem

• Shake off excess soil (don’t wash)

• Lay out in a shaded, well-ventilated area to dry

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Curing and Storing Garlic

Cure your garlic for 2–3 weeks in a dry, airy place out of direct sun—this helps it store well.

Once cured:

• Trim the roots

• Cut stems to your preferred length, or braid if softneck

• Store in mesh bags or baskets in a cool, dry place—never in the fridge (unless you’re vernalising for next season)

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Where to Buy Garlic for Planting in Australia

Avoid supermarket garlic—it’s often imported, fumigated, and treated to stop sprouting.

Here are trusted Australian sources for quality planting garlic:

1. The Diggers Club

Heirloom, seasonal garlic varieties for different climates.

🔗 diggers.com.au

2. Green Harvest

Certified organic garlic, with growing tips and regional suitability.

🔗 greenharvest.com.au

3. The Seed Garlic Shop

Specialises in diverse, locally adapted garlic varieties.

🔗 theseedgarlicshop.com.au

4. Garlic Kingdom Australia

Over 50 regeneratively grown garlic varieties.

🔗 garlickingdom.com.au

5. Tooley Garlic (VIC)

Disease-free planting garlic with limited national shipping.

🔗 tooleygarlic.com.au

6. Local Farmers’ Markets

A fantastic place to find garlic suited to your specific region. Many stallholders will sell garlic for planting and happily offer tips. Ask about variety, harvest time, and whether the garlic is untreated. It’s also a great way to connect with your local food community.

🌱 Pro tip: The best time to buy seed garlic is late summer to early autumn, before the season’s planting stock sells out.

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Side Note: Can You Plant Garlic Under Tomatoes?

If you’re tight on space, or working with a productive kitchen garden, you might be wondering whether garlic can be planted under your tomato plants toward the end of the season.

The answer is yes—and it’s actually a smart move.

If your tomatoes are starting to wind down with the first frosts approaching, planting garlic underneath them now makes excellent use of timing and space. Tomatoes will soon be finished, and their mature root systems won’t interfere much with the young garlic cloves. Once you remove the tomato plants—either by lifting them or cutting them off at the base—you’ll have your garlic already in place and growing steadily.

Tip: Cutting tomato plants at the base and hanging them upside down is an old-school way to allow the last fruit to ripen off the vine—without disturbing the garlic you’ve just planted underneath.

This kind of succession planting is ideal in smaller gardens. It keeps your beds working efficiently while also allowing you to stagger harvests. And if you’re resting other beds with a green manure crop, like I often do, this balance between productivity and renewal is what keeps the garden thriving year-round.

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Why I Grow My Own Garlic

There’s nothing quite like growing your own garlic—from selecting the cloves to harvesting and hanging your crop to cure. Once you’ve experienced the flavour, freshness and satisfaction of growing it yourself, you won’t go back.

You know exactly what’s gone into it (and what hasn’t). It becomes part of your pantry, your garden rhythm, and your seasonal calendar. It’s a small act of self-reliance that makes a real difference.

And if you’d like to explore more ways to grow for abundance—without chemicals, overwhelm, or waste—I cover all of this and more in The Productive Garden workshop.

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If you’d like to experience life here and this incredible space first-hand, I’d love to welcome you to one of my upcoming workshops. Come and walk the garden, learn something new, and connect with others creating lives rich in beauty, practicality and purpose.

Explore my workshops:

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

You may want to check out my related content below:

From Fumigation to Flavour: What Happens to Imported Garlic Before It Reaches You – Explore the journey of garlic before it makes it to your kitchen in this insightful blog post.

Fermenting Garlic: A Recipe for Resilience – Learn how fermenting garlic can enhance its flavour and shelf life, while building resilience in your kitchen.

Dive into both for more garlic-related insights!

Thanks so much for following along.

Natasha xx,

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

If You Could Learn Anything From Me This Year, What Would It Be?

Help shape the next workshops—and win a seasonal syrup gift pack

Hello wonderful community,

As we ease into a slower season here at Little Cottage on a Hill, I’ve been reflecting on the workshops I’ve shared over the years—and dreaming into what might come next.

So many of you have told me how your time here (or at Oak and Monkey Puzzle) has lingered with you—whether it was making preserves in my kitchen, learning how to design the garden of your dreams, finding ways to live more attuned to the rhythm of the seasons, or simply having space to breathe, reconnect and create.

I’m feeling called to offer something new—while also reimagining a few favourites—and I’d truly love your thoughts as I shape what’s ahead.

1. Heart of the Homestead (new – I’d love your input)

This is the workshop that brings it all together—the practical, the beautiful, and the deeply personal.

A day (or perhaps a weekend?) immersed in what makes life here at Little Cottage on a Hill what it is.

We’d explore:

• Living seasonally and sustainably

• Integrating the garden with the household

• A little gentle foraging

• Making things from scratch: a medicinal syrup, a scent roller, and a preserve to take home

It’s a taster of all the things that underpin a more intentional, handmade, grounded way of living.

👉 Would this speak to you? What else would you love to learn if you were stepping into a homesteading-inspired life?

2. Preserving the Seasons (reimagined + re-offered)

This one has been one of the most frequently requested in post-workshop surveys—but oddly, it’s never quite filled up. So I’m asking:

👉 What would make this one irresistible for you?

It’s about more than jars on shelves—it’s about truly living with the seasons.

Learning the why as much as the how.

From pickles and jams to syrups, shrubs, and ferments—all rooted in what’s growing now.

Would a new name help? A more seasonal focus? A full-day format with a garden lunch and a pantry of recipes to take home?

Your feedback will help me reimagine this one in a way that truly nourishes and inspires.

3. Living a Creative Life – My Story (and yours) (a brand new offering)

This one is close to my heart. It’s something I’ve never offered before, but it feels timely.

It’s for anyone asking: How do I shape a creative, fulfilling life that’s true to who I am?

A life that draws on your passions, your place, and your values—and makes space for beauty, meaning, and contribution.

I’ll share my own journey—from award-winning design work to preserves in a tiny kitchen and seasonal living—and open the door for you to explore what might be next in your story.

But more than storytelling, this workshop is about helping you take that leap—with support.

I’ll offer the lessons I’ve learnt, the things I wish I’d known, and the practical tools, mindset shifts, and grounded planning techniques that helped me bring a vision to life.

It’s part inspiration, part action. A deeply nurturing reprieve from the busyness of life.

We’ll spend the day:

• Exploring our own stories and creative callings

• Journalling, sharing, dreaming

• Reflecting with intention and purpose

• Mapping out possibilities and tangible next steps

• Connecting in small groups

• Enjoying a seasonal lunch from the garden

• Creating something tactile to anchor your vision

👉 Would this resonate with you? Would you come—or recommend it to someone ready to shape a life that feels more aligned, more spacious, and more meaningful?

🌿 Win a Seasonal Syrup Triple Gift Pack

As a heartfelt thank you for contributing your thoughts, I’ll be gifting a Natasha Morgan Seasonal Syrup Triple Pack to one thoughtful respondent (Australian residents only).

Each syrup is handmade here at Little Cottage on a Hill—seasonal, nourishing, and made with love.

To be in the running:

• Comment below or message me directly with your thoughts on the workshop ideas

• The most thoughtful or inspiring response will receive the gift pack

• Entries close 30 April 2025

• The winner will be contacted personally

💬 Now Over to You…

If you could learn anything from me this year—what would it be?

Would it be one of the workshops above—or something else entirely?

Share your thoughts below or send me a message. Your ideas help shape what this space becomes.

If you’d like to experience life here and this incredible space first-hand, I’d love to welcome you to one of my upcoming workshops. Come and walk the garden, learn something new, and connect with others creating lives rich in beauty, practicality and purpose.

Explore my workshops:

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

Thanks so much for being part of this beautiful community. I can’t wait to gather with you again soon.

With love and warm hands from the garden,

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

What to Plant in April: A Regional Autumn Guide for Australian Gardeners

April is a golden moment in the gardener’s year—a pause between the heat of summer and the slowness of winter. As the leaves begin to fall and the early morning air carries a welcome crispness, it’s a perfect time to sow for the season ahead. Whether you’re nestled in a misty hillside garden, tending a small city patch, or cultivating abundance in warmer tropical soils—there’s still much to be planted, nurtured and grown.

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Temperate Zones

(Melbourne, parts of Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth)

Temperate zones offer generous growing conditions in April. The soil is still warm enough to encourage germination, while the cooler air reduces pest pressure.

Plant now:

• Leafy greens: spinach, rocket, silverbeet, lettuces, mustard greens

• Brassicas: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, kohlrabi

• Roots: beetroot, carrot, radish, parsnip, turnip

• Legumes: broad beans, peas (including snow and sugar snap)

• Alliums: garlic (late April onwards), leeks, spring onions

• Herbs: parsley, coriander, dill, chervil

Tips:

Prepare beds with plenty of organic matter and compost. Rotate brassica plantings to avoid clubroot and always mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

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Cool & Alpine Zones

(Daylesford, Canberra, Macedon Ranges, Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands)

April is your last opportunity before the frosts to plant for winter harvests. Prioritise crops that grow quickly and are frost-hardy.

Plant now:

• Leafy greens: spinach, rocket, Asian greens, silverbeet

• Brassicas: cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale

• Roots: garlic, radish, turnip

• Legumes: broad beans, snow peas

• Herbs: coriander, parsley, thyme

Tips:

Use cloches or frost cloth (I get mine from Redpath) to protect young seedlings as night temperatures drop. Plant garlic towards the end of the month for a mid-summer harvest.

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Subtropical Zones

(Brisbane, Northern Rivers, Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg)

Autumn is a glorious time for subtropical gardens—cooler nights offer respite from humidity, and soil temperatures remain ideal for germination. (My thoughts go out to those areas currently affected by floods.)

Plant now:

• Leafy greens: lettuce, silverbeet, Asian greens, chicory

• Brassicas: cabbage, broccoli, kale

• Roots: beetroot, carrot, radish, spring onion

• Legumes: bush beans, climbing beans, peas

• Alliums: garlic (use subtropical-adapted varieties), leeks

• Herbs: coriander, dill, parsley, oregano

Tips:

Keep an eye on fungal issues—good airflow and morning watering help prevent mildew. Succession plant small batches every 2–3 weeks for a continual harvest.

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Tropical Zones

(Darwin, Cairns, Townsville, northern QLD and NT)

The end of the wet season marks the beginning of the most abundant time in a tropical garden. This is when the real productivity begins. (Sending lots of love to those in areas currently affected by floods.)

Plant now:

• Leafy greens: amaranth, kangkong, Malabar spinach, Asian greens

• Fruit vegetables: capsicum, okra, cherry tomatoes, eggplant, cucumber

• Roots: sweet potato, turmeric, ginger

• Legumes: snake beans, winged beans

• Herbs: basil, lemongrass, mint, Vietnamese coriander

Tips:

Tropical soils benefit from consistent composting. Avoid overwatering as rains subside, and choose open-pollinated, locally adapted seed varieties wherever possible.

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Arid Zones

(Alice Springs, Broken Hill, inland WA/SA/NSW)

Autumn’s cooler evenings bring much-needed relief after the extremes of summer. April is one of the most important planting times in arid regions.

Plant now:

• Leafy greens: silverbeet, spinach, lettuce, rocket

• Brassicas: cabbage, kale, broccoli

• Roots: beetroot, carrot, radish

• Legumes: broad beans, peas

• Alliums: garlic, spring onions, leeks

• Herbs: thyme, sage, parsley

Tips:

Maximise water efficiency using wicking beds, deep mulch and drip irrigation. In hot inland areas, afternoon shade from trellises or shade cloth can help seedlings establish.

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As We Turn the Page into April

Autumn planting is a gentle kind of magic. It’s about tending to what’s beneath the surface—laying the groundwork for winter resilience and spring abundance. Whether you’re planting garlic with the kids, tending a quiet patch of rocket, or sowing a tray of winter brassicas on the verandah, these small acts shape a season of sustenance and beauty.

I hope this guide supports you in your garden this month. And if you’d like to deepen your learning or grow alongside a community of like-minded growers, you’re warmly invited to explore more.

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You may want to check my related content below:

Growing Pumpkins Up: Maximising Small Spaces for a Thriving Productive Garden – Learn how to maximise small for a Thriving Productive Garden.

Growing Zucchini: Space-Saving and Pollination Tips for an Abundant Harvest – Learn how to maximise space and boost pollination for a bountiful zucchini crop in your garden.

The Joy of Growing Strawberries: A Journey Through Every Climate – Explore how to successfully grow strawberries in different climates and enjoy a sweet, seasonal harvest.

Watering Deeply: The Key to Thriving, Resilient Plants – Watch my Instagram reel for tips on how deep watering helps your plants grow stronger with deeper roots.

Growing Soil: The Foundation to Vibrant Gardens and Nutrient-Dense Plants – Dive into my blog post where I explore how healthy soil is essential for supporting vibrant, thriving plants.

If you’d like to experience life here and this incredible space first-hand, I’d love to welcome you to one of my upcoming workshops. Come and walk the garden, learn something new, and connect with others creating lives rich in beauty, practicality and purpose.

Explore my workshops:

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

Thanks so much for following along,

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

Lessons in Abundance: Life at Little Cottage on a Hill

As featured in LOST Magazine | Story by Mahmood Fazal | Photography by Chris Turner

I’m so pleased to share a recent feature in LOST Magazine that offers a glimpse into life here at Little Cottage on a Hill — a place that continues to grow as a compact, abundant experiment in sustainable living, growing, sharing, and meaningful connection.

This article isn’t just a look at my garden — it’s a reflection on how I’ve carried the lessons from Oak & Monkey Puzzle into a much smaller space, and how the values of self-sufficiency, generosity, and seasonal living continue to shape the way I live and work today.

I’ve long admired Chris Turner’s photography, so it was a genuine joy to meet him in person through this shoot. What started as a morning of photos turned into a beautiful three-hour conversation about purpose, meaning and the work that lights us up. Chris has an uncanny way of seeing the person behind the face — and somehow capturing that with such ease and clarity. I’m truly grateful for the way he told this story through his lens.

I also feel incredibly fortunate to have been interviewed by Mahmood Fazal. His background in journalism spans some of Australia’s most respected publications, and while his work often explores big social issues, he approached this story with real generosity and care. Our conversation dug into the quieter motivations — why I live the way I do, and what I hope to offer through my garden, workshops, and everyday rhythms. It was a privilege to be in conversation with someone who brings such thoughtfulness to storytelling.

A Note from Me

When I started thinking about moving from Oak & Monkey Puzzle to Little Cottage on a Hill, it wasn’t just about relocating. It was a complete reimagining of how I live, work, and connect with the world around me.

Like many, the pandemic brought everything into sharper focus. Workshops stopped. The day-to-day ways I connected with people paused. And I was left asking: what do I actually need to live well?

Downsizing from five acres to 515 square metres felt, at first, like a risk — but it quickly became an opportunity. Could I continue to live a life grounded in beauty, abundance, and contribution on a much smaller footprint?

What I’ve discovered is that small doesn’t mean less — it can actually mean more. More intention. More creativity. More connection. In a single summer season, I’ve harvested well over 150 kilograms of produce from this garden. But just as valuable are the little moments — neighbours stopping by with cuttings, notes left at the gate, conversations that spark over the garden fence.

This garden has become my working lab — for growing, preserving, teaching, and quietly pushing back against the idea that we need more to live meaningfully. It’s a place where I share not just skills, but a way of life.

If you’d like to experience life here and this incredible space first-hand, I’d love to welcome you to one of my upcoming workshops. Come and walk the garden, learn something new, and connect with others creating lives rich in beauty, practicality and purpose.

Explore my workshops:

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

You can also read the full article from LOST Magazine below — including Chris Turner’s stunning images, and Mahmood Fazal’s generous storytelling.

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LOST Magazine Feature

Written by Mahmood Fazal | Photography by Chris Turner

Reproduced here with permission

“When Natasha Morgan moved from Oak & Monkey Puzzle to Little Cottage on a Hill in 2022, it was more than just a change of scenery. It marked a shift in the way she thought about the world.”

“During COVID, I couldn’t run workshops anymore, which was predominantly my way of connecting with the world, and so I kind of had a bit of an existential crisis,” Natasha recalls. “But at the same time, it was a bit of an epiphany. The world can be going to shit, the supermarket shelves can be bare, and as long as I have soil, sky, fresh air, and water, I actually have everything I need.”

Thanks so much for following along,

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

Growing Pumpkins Up: Maximising Small Spaces for a Thriving Productive Garden

When I moved from Oak and Monkey Puzzle’s five sprawling acres to my much smaller block in Daylesford, I knew I’d need to rethink how I grew things—particularly the plants that traditionally demand a lot of space. Pumpkins, for instance, seem to have an insatiable desire to sprawl, their tendrils forever reaching, searching for more ground to cover.

But I love a challenge. And I love making the most of what I have—both in terms of space and materials. With some leftover concrete reinforcing mesh (reo) from cladding my fence for espaliered fruit trees, I wondered: could I combine the two—pumpkins and reo—to squeeze in just one more productive crop? A vegetable that would sustain us through winter in soups, curries, and more, but in a way that suited my limited space?

So, I put my idea to the test.

I bent two sheets of reo into a house-like shape, positioning them on the edges of a garden bed, securing them with star pickets, and wiring them together at the top. On one side, I planted three Coventry Jap pumpkin seedlings, raised from Lambley’s seeds. On the other, I sowed Italian flat beans—gifted seed from Lily Lagham, who rightly claimed they remain sweet and tender all the way to maturity, never turning stringy.

In a space no larger than 30 x 60cm, I’ve managed to grow three pumpkin plants—ordinarily requiring at least 2m² each—without sacrificing productivity. And the result? Not just thriving plants but beautifully architectural green structures, where pumpkins now hang like baubles on a Christmas tree, bringing a wonderful three-dimensional interest to an otherwise flat, narrow space. Their shape even echoes the geometry of my little cottage’s roof and the metal climbing frames in my wicking bed garden.

And the beans—oh, the beans! Every day, I collect another generous handful, their vines interweaving with the pumpkin tendrils that have reached the top and cascaded down the other side. It’s a happy, thriving partnership—one that makes for an equally delicious dinner.

What began as a constraint—a small space and an ever-growing list of things I long to grow—has become a feature on the verge. A simple experiment that worked so well that, with just the tiniest footprint, we’ll be enjoying sweet, rich pumpkins through the cold months and beyond. So far, there are nine beautiful pumpkins growing strong, and that feels like a pretty big win.

If you’d love to learn how to create beauty and abundance in any space—large or small—why not join me at my Productive Garden workshop? I’ll be sharing everything I’ve learned, along with practical ways to make the most of your garden. I’d love to see you there.

Explore my workshops:

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

You may want to check my related content below:

Growing Zucchini: Space-Saving and Pollination Tips for an Abundant Harvest – Learn how to maximise space and boost pollination for a bountiful zucchini crop in your garden.

The Joy of Growing Strawberries: A Journey Through Every Climate – Explore how to successfully grow strawberries in different climates and enjoy a sweet, seasonal harvest.

Check them out for more gardening tips and inspiration!

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

The Wicking Bed Garden: How I Harvested 100kg of Produce in 50 Days—And How You Can Too

Since January, my wicking beds have produced over 100kg (220lbs) of fresh, organic produce in just 50 days. That’s tomatoes, zucchinis, cucumbers, herbs, and leafy greens—all thriving with minimal watering and effort. If you’ve been following along, you’ll know that wicking beds have been a game-changer in my garden.

These self-watering beds keep the soil consistently moist, reduce water use, and create the ideal conditions for strong, healthy plants. They take the guesswork out of watering and, once set up, are incredibly low-maintenance. Whether you’re growing in a backyard, courtyard, or even on a balcony, wicking beds are one of the most efficient and productive ways to grow food.

I’ve been inundated with questions about how to set up and maintain wicking beds, so I’ve put everything I’ve learned into a new Wicking Bed Garden e-book. It’s a complete guide to designing, building, and growing in wicking beds—so you can create your own self-sustaining, water-wise garden at home.

What is a Wicking Bed?

A wicking bed is a self-watering garden system that draws moisture upwards from a water reservoir at the base. Imagine a sponge soaking up water—your plants take exactly what they need when they need it.

Originally designed for arid climates, wicking beds are perfect for:

✔️ Reducing water use by up to 50%

✔️ Keeping plants consistently hydrated

✔️ Preventing soil from drying out and cracking

✔️ Growing nutrient-dense, organic produce with minimal maintenance

✔️ Making gardening more accessible and achievable for busy people

Once set up, wicking beds can go for days—even weeks—without needing extra watering, making them ideal for Australia’s unpredictable climate.

How My Wicking Beds Changed Everything

I first set up my wicking beds because I wanted to grow more food with less effort. I knew they were efficient, but I didn’t expect just how abundant they would be. In 50 days, they produced over 100kg (220lbs) of food—without me constantly watering, adjusting, or worrying about plant stress in the heat.

That’s the beauty of this system. The plants thrive because their roots always have access to water, and I don’t have to intervene as much. It’s as close to a self-sustaining vegetable garden as you can get.

If you’ve been watching my journey and wondering how to get started, my new Wicking Bed Garden e-book will show you exactly how to build and maintain your own—so you can experience these results too.

What’s Inside the Wicking Bed Garden E-Book?

This e-book is packed with everything you need to create a thriving, self-watering garden, no matter your space or experience level.

 Inside, you’ll learn:

✔️ How wicking beds work and why they’re so effective

✔️ Step-by-step instructions for building different types of wicking beds (including IBC conversions)

✔️ The best plants to grow for maximum productivity

✔️ A no-dig approach to maintaining soil health

✔️ Tips for troubleshooting and customising your wicking bed to suit your space

Get your copy here: Click to download the e-book.

Prefer Hands-On Learning? Join My Wicking Bed Garden Workshop

If you love to learn by doing, I also run a Wicking Bed Garden Workshop where I guide you through building and maintaining your own wicking bed. Whether you’re starting fresh or refining an existing setup, this workshop is all about practical learning, confidence-building, and getting your hands in the soil.

Book your spot here: www.natashamorgan.com.au/shop/wicking-bed-garden-workshop-with-natasha-morgan

I’d love to know—have you tried a wicking bed before? What are you growing at the moment? Let’s chat in the comments.

Instagram Reel: Wicking Bed Garden Walkthrough – Take a virtual tour through my wicking bed garden and see how it works in action.

Let's dive into the conversation and share our gardening experiences!

Or if you’d like to dive deeper into sustainable gardening practices, join me for a workshop on Wicking Bed Garden

Explore my workshops:

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

Autumn Gardening Jobs: A Gentle Approach for a Bountiful Season

Autumn in Daylesford and across Australia is a season of change—a time to give your garden a final flush before winter while preparing for a winter bounty. As you plan new plantings, harvest the last of summer’s produce, and tidy up your outdoor spaces, consider a gentle approach that respects your garden’s soil structure while boosting its vitality. Drawing on insights from Gardening Australia, Paul West, Milkwood Permaculture, and Deep Green Permaculture, here’s a guide to autumn gardening jobs that boost your garden’s final flush while setting the stage for a winter bounty—all with a light touch.

General Autumn Jobs for a Bountiful Garden

These practices help you enhance your garden’s productivity as autumn unfolds, with methods that minimise disturbance and encourage soil health:

1. Light Clean-Up and Top Dressing

Begin by gently clearing away fallen leaves and plant debris with a gentle rake—no heavy tilling needed. Spread a 5 cm (2‑inch) layer of well‑rotted compost and organic mulch over your beds. This not only retains moisture and regulates temperature but also gradually enriches the soil without disrupting its structure.

2. Direct Sowing of Cool Season Crops

Use your prepared beds to directly sow vegetables such as carrots, lettuce, radishes, and silverbeet. These cool season crops benefit from the nutrient rich top layer and thrive in the mild autumn temperatures.

3. Boosting Brassicas for a Winter Bounty

It’s the perfect time to start brassicas like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. Begin seedlings in your garden and protect young plants with netting to ward off cabbage moths.

4. Refreshing Your Herb Garden

Rejuvenate your herb garden by planting herbs like parsley, coriander and dill. These herbs enjoy the cooler weather, adding fresh, aromatic flavours to your winter dishes.

5. Tool and Irrigation Check

Take a moment to clean, sharpen, and oil your garden tools, and review your irrigation systems. Efficient water delivery is so important as the season shifts, ensuring your garden receives just the right amount of moisture.

6. Sowing a Green Manure Crop

Consider sowing a green manure crop—such as clover or vetch—in your autumn beds. These cover crops naturally fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure over winter, boosting soil fertility without heavy cultivation. This is a technique I’ve used on poor soils in the past with incredible soil structure building and nourishing effects.

Tasks by Australian Climate Region

Autumn gardening practices can vary across Australia. Below are some tasks for each climate region to help you maximise your garden’s potential while preparing for the winter ahead.

1. Cool Temperate Regions

(e.g. Daylesford, Victoria; Tasmania; parts of NSW)

1. Final Summer Flush Boost

Top dress your beds with compost and mulch to encourage any lingering summer produce—tomatoes, capsicums, and beans—to offer one last burst of flavour before the chill sets in.

2. Brassica Beginnings

Sow brassicas such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale now. Use protective netting over seedlings to prevent cabbage moth damage, ensuring your winter crops develop well.

3. Winter Greens and Root Crops

Direct sow hardy winter greens like spinach and silverbeet alongside root vegetables such as carrots and beetroots. These crops thrive in a nutrient-rich, lightly disturbed soil.

4. Herb and Edible Flower Planting

Refresh your herb garden with parsley, coriander, and dill. Adding edible flowers—like violas or cornflowers—not only attracts beneficial insects but also brightens up your winter salads.

5. Gentle Pruning and Bed Tidy-Up

Trim back overgrown summer perennials and tidy up garden edges. This light maintenance improves airflow and helps plants throw on another flush of foliage and often flowers.

2. Subtropical Regions

(e.g. Coastal Queensland; Northern NSW)

1. Mulching for Moisture Retention

In humid, subtropical climates, mulching will assist to stabilise soil, suppress weeds, and support soil structure after heavy rains. (Thoughts are with our Queensland friends who are batting down their hatches. Let’s hope there’s some gardens left after the deluge!)

2. Sowing Cool-Season Vegetables

Direct sow vegetables like beetroot, lettuce, and radish in your garden beds. These crops adapt well to the milder autumn conditions typical of subtropical regions.

3. Brassicas with a Protective Shield

Start your brassicas for a winter bounty, and cover young seedlings with netting to keep pests at bay.

4. Refreshing Container and Raised Beds

For those working in containers or raised beds, top dress with compost to renew soil fertility while keeping disturbance to a minimum.

5. Herbs and Edible Ornamentals

Enhance your garden with herbs such as basil and coriander, alongside edible ornamentals like calendula, which attract pollinators and beneficial insects.

3. Arid/Mediterranean Regions

(e.g. Parts of South Australia, Western Australia; Inland NSW)

1. Moisture Conservation with Mulch

As the heat lingers but daylight shortens, apply a generous layer of organic mulch (such as straw, pea straw, or lucerne) to regulate soil temperature, reduce evaporation, and suppress weeds. Autumn rains may help settle mulch in, improving soil structure.

2. Planting for the Season

Now is the time to direct sow or transplant hardy cool-season vegetables like carrots, turnips, brassicas (broccoli, cabbage, kale), beets, and onions. Protect brassicas with netting to deter cabbage moths and ensure strong early growth.

3. Weed Management Before the Rains

Take advantage of any pre-autumn rain by weeding before seeds germinate. A thick layer of mulch will further suppress unwanted growth, conserving soil moisture as temperatures fluctuate.

4. Water-Wise Pruning & Maintenance

Lightly prune heat-stressed perennials and remove dead growth to reduce water loss and allow autumn growth to establish. Hold off on major pruning of frost-sensitive plants until after winter.

5. Microclimates for Resilience

With autumn planting underway, use shade cloth or windbreaks to shelter young greens and protect against drying winds or late-season heatwaves. This ensures strong root establishment before winter.

Overall, these region‑specific tasks are in line with established guidelines and reflect the best practices for boosting your garden’s final flush before winter while preparing for a winter bounty. As always, it’s wise to consider local microclimate variations and specific garden conditions when applying these tasks

As the leaves begin their gentle descent and the air turns crisper, autumn offers a unique opportunity to work with your garden rather than against it. By applying a light touch—minimising disturbance while nurturing growth—you set the stage for a resilient garden and a nourishing winter bounty. Enjoy the process, celebrate the small victories, and savour the seasonal transformation of your outdoor space.

You may want to check out my related content below:

Watering Deeply: The Key to Thriving, Resilient Plants – Watch my Instagram reel for tips on how deep watering helps your plants grow stronger with deeper roots.

Growing Soil: The Foundation to Vibrant Gardens and Nutrient-Dense Plants – Dive into my blog post where I explore how healthy soil is essential for supporting vibrant, thriving plants.

Explore both for a complete guide to creating a garden that flourishes!

Or if you’d like to dive deeper into sustainable gardening practices, join me for a workshop on productive gardening.

Explore my workshops:

~ Garden Design with Natasha Morgan – Craft a garden that balances structure, beauty, and functionality.

~  The Productive Garden with Natasha Morgan – Learn how to grow abundantly, no matter your space.

~ The Wicking Bed Garden with Natasha Morgan – Build a self-watering, water-wise garden for effortless growing.

~ Preserving The Seasons with Natasha Morgan – Capture seasonal flavours with time-honoured preserving techniques.

~ Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping with Saffron and Natasha  – Learn how to raise happy, healthy chickens at home.

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

Your Ultimate Gardening Inspiration Resource – Curated by our community for our community

One of the most wonderful things about gardening is that it’s never a solitary journey. It’s shaped by the wisdom, creativity, and generosity of others—whether it’s a fellow gardener sharing a simple tip that transforms the way we grow, or an inspiring account that sparks new ideas for our own spaces.

I recently invited my community to share their favourite Instagram accounts and other go-to resources for gardening inspiration, and the response was nothing short of magical. The love, knowledge, and passion that poured in from so many of you has created something truly special—a collective resource, built together, to inspire and support every gardener, from beginners to seasoned growers.

This blog is a celebration of that shared wisdom. A gift from our community, for our community. I’m beyond grateful to everyone who contributed, and I hope this becomes a space you return to time and again when you’re looking for fresh ideas, guidance, or simply a little gardening joy.

How to Use This Resource:

Below, you’ll find a curated list of Instagram accounts, websites, and other tools that have been recommended by fellow garden lovers. To make it easy to navigate, I’ve grouped them into themes—from kitchen gardens and edible landscapes to floral artistry, sustainable growing, and beyond.

I invite you to explore, follow, and be inspired—and if you have more to add, I’d love to keep this resource growing! 

Productive Gardens & Kitchen Gardens

(A collection of Instagram accounts focused on growing food, edible landscapes, and self-sufficiency.)

@moonacresfarm_official: A certified organic fruit and vegetable farm in the Southern Highlands of NSW, supplying local farmers' markets and restaurants.

@charles_dowding: A gardener and renowned for promoting the no-dig gardening method, Charles Dowding shares insights on creating productive vegetable gardens with minimal soil disturbance

@huwsgarden: Huw Richards offers practical advice on growing food in small spaces, focusing on organic and sustainable practices.

@thediggersclub: An Australian organisation dedicated to heirloom gardening, providing seeds, plants, and gardening advice to cultivate productive and diverse gardens.

@thelittlegrowers: Focuses on engaging children in gardening, offering resources and inspiration to cultivate young gardeners.

@anya_thegarden_fairy: Is a digital creator powered by ADHD, a speaker, and the author of a Sunday Times Bestseller. She shares practical tips for creating great gardens on a budget, plant propagation techniques, and engaging tutorials

@susienugentg: Shares insights into organic gardening, sustainable practices, and the joys of growing your own food.

Sustainable & Regenerative Growing

(For those passionate about organic practices, permaculture, and working with the land in a thoughtful way.)

@milkwood: Offers DIY guides, courses, and a free online library focused on sustainable living skills, including gardening and food production.

@goryu_japanese_gardens: Showcases authentic Japanese gardens based on nine themed gardens of Japan, promoting sustainable gardening practices.

@yambulla: Is a place where Indigenous and non-Indigenous people are looking for new ways to share the rewards and responsibilities of Caring for Country.

@thethriftygardener: Also known as Millie, she is a gardener, explorer, and doer who makes noise, mostly about plants, and is based on Taungurung country, Australia. She is also a presenter.

@outbackgardens: Cass Hooke offers guidance on building dream gardens, focusing on sustainable practices in the Australian outback.

Seasonal Flowers & Floristry

(Gardeners and florists who celebrate the beauty of seasonal blooms, cut flower gardening, and naturalistic design.)

@microflowerfarm: Specialises in agriculture and flower farming with organic, regenerative practices on small acreage. They promote building cottage gardens instead of lawns and offer dahlia tuber sales and growing classes.

@fleurs_de_lyonville: Located in the Daylesford & Macedon Region, offers organically grown flowers for weddings, eco-friendly funerals, workshops, and more, as well as pottery vases.

Garden Designers & Landscape Architecture

(A collection of visionaries who create breathtaking garden spaces, from small courtyards to vast landscapes.)

@superbloomau: Creative plant practice bringing dynamic living beauty and diversity to gardens and landscapes through planting design and horticulture.

@ladysmith_park_perennials: Is a rural perennial nursery located in Riverina, NSW, offering boutique garden design services and featuring a New Perennial Movement show garden.

@peachy_green_: A landscape architecture studio based in Melbourne, creating lush handcrafted gardens for lovers of green.

@ke_landscape_consultant: Is a passionate #landscapedesign consultant from Melbourne who can design your dream landscape.

@highfield_gardens: Provides garden design inspiration and tips, documenting the transformation of an 8-acre cow paddock into a house and garden.

@hart_vale_gardens: Shares inspiration for creating beauty through gardening, featuring a rural garden with stunning views and luxury accommodation.

@carolynrobinsongardendesign: A garden designer and plantswoman based in Tenterfield, NSW, offering insights into garden design and plant selection.

@t.p_gardens: Specialises in naturalistic garden designs tailored to modern Australian contexts, showcasing various projects and design ideas.

@emmasadiethomson: Focuses on plant styling, landscape design, and connecting people to nature through commercial and residential projects.

@artfulmeadow: A nursery showcasing a blend of gorgeous, unusual, edible and useful plants, focusing on developing meadows, woodlands and forest gardens that are aesthetically pleasing and ecologically beneficial.

@reverie_101garden_: John FitzGibbon & Paul Smith designed and planted a garden for a Masters Thesis in Landscape Art, which was featured on Gardening Australia & The Horti-Culturalists on YouTube in 2022.

@annmaree.winter: Annie, a passionate gardener.

@pietoudolf: Piet Oudolf is a garden designer known for his naturalistic planting style, emphasising the beauty of perennials and grasses.

@adam_hancock: Full-time gardener, Aldgate, wanting projects that connect community to nature through wow-factor gardening and native biodiversity.

@d.rumenos: Together with her husband Matt, they are creating a diverse and resilient garden on a windswept hill in South Western Australia, on Bibbulmun country.

@michaelmccoyongardens: Michael McCoy is a garden designer, writer, and host of ABC TV's Dream Gardens.

@simon_rickard: Simon Rickard is a gardener, plantsman, and baroque bassoonist.

@fishermansbay_garden: Gardener Jill Simpson’s garden near Akaroa, New Zealand, offers beautiful views over the rugged Pacific coastline, changing season by season.

@michaelcookegardendesign: Michael Cooke is an artist, Australian garden designer, and author with a love of design, art, plants, and horses. He lives north of Sydney with a large garden and home studio.

@tomstuartsmith: Renowned landscape architect and garden designer, sharing insights into his projects and design philosophy.

@charlie.harpur: Charlie Harpur is a plantsman, designer, and ecosystem engineer serving as the head gardener.

@ashley_james_gardens: Ashley James is an Australian garden designer blending Arts and Crafts principles with contemporary elements to create harmonious outdoor spaces.

@stem_emmalinebowman: Emmaline Bowman is a landscape architecture designer creating environments with integrity, specialising in zoological and habitat design, and water gardens.

@thestonescentralvictoria: A stunning garden in central Victoria, Australia, that emphasises sustainable and aesthetically pleasing landscaping, featuring dry-stone walls, local plants, and thoughtful design.

@kmldesign_gardens: Kathleen Murphy Landscape Design specialises in garden design for homeowners, with over 600 gardens created. She also offers online courses for DIY garden planning.

@brockstar64: Fiona Brockhoff is a landscape designer, family woman, and nature lover who gardens on Boon Wurrung and Bunurong land. She is a hiker, recycler, skier, and passionate about working with nature, as well as events.

@phillip_withers: Phillip Withers is a designer running a landscape architecture and horticulture studio in Melbourne.

@phillip_johnson_landscapes: Phillip Johnson Landscapes is a multi-award-winning landscape design and build company, specialising in billabongs, natural pools, and creating sustainable habitats, always working with nature, not against it.

@thehabitatguru: AB Bishop is a habitat-focused gardener, best-selling author, and a horticulture editor at Gardening Australia. She is also the host of the 3CR Gardening Show and a presenter at ABC Radio, based on Wurundjeri Country.

@christian_douglas_design: Christian Douglas Design is an architectural design studio, award-winning for its "Food Forward" design approach. Christian is also the founder of @thebackyardfarmco and the author of The Food Forward Garden.

@boatsend_garden: Sarah Budarick is a mad gardener creating a garden on a windy hillside in South Australia, alongside the resident kangaroos and rabbits. She is also a besotted grandmother of 6.

@thegardencurator: Colleen Southwell, known as The Garden Curator, is an artist and garden maker offering workshops and insights into garden design.

@bluehouse_amberley: Jenny Cooper is a gardener with a love for all things plantish. She experiments in dry gardening and is friends with mycorrhizae. The garden is an open garden in North Canterbury, New Zealand.

@brentonrobertsgardendesigns: Brenton Roberts is a designer working to transform 5 acres in the Adelaide Hills into lush gardens.

@gardeningwithangus: Angus Stewart is an award-winning horticulturist, former presenter on Gardening Australia, author, broadcaster, and plant breeder.

@ralphbristow_artist: Ralph Bristow lives in Barwite, North East Victoria, Australia. He is a painter, gardener, and painter with plants, offering garden design services and paintings.

@terrywinters9141: Terry Winters shares the day-to-day story of a garden. He was awarded the RHS ‘My Chelsea Garden’ Gold Medal (Back Garden) in a competition held in conjunction with BBC’s The One Show.

@highcroft.garden: Highcroft Garden, located in the Adelaide Hills, features 2 acres of country garden, offering workshops and events.

@saintremystudio: Saint Remy is a landscape design studio, creating gardens that make your heart sing.

@platylobium: Platylobium is a landscape company, with a design philosophy centred on creating functional landscapes that integrate design elements with the existing natural environment.

@oceanroadlandscaping: Ocean Road Landscaping creates beautiful and environmentally friendly gardens by the sea, in the country, and in town. They build locally and design anywhere.

@le_sac_: Offers garden tool belts designed for gardeners and beyond, emphasising the connection between gardening and culinary pursuits.

@trishadixonburkitt: Trisha (Dixon) Burkitt is a visual artist, writer, and photographer who lives life to the full. She occasionally leaves the road less travelled to lead landscape literary and cycling tours.

Chefs & Food Creators Focused on Garden-to-Plate

(For those who find joy in turning their harvest into something delicious, these accounts bridge the gap between growing and cooking.)

@glenmorehouse: Mickey Robertson enjoys idyllic days in the country, where she invites others to learn, dream, eat, and be inspired.

@babbingtonpark: Babbington Park is a farm and home to chef Annie Smiths and her wife Susan on 23 acres, featuring a restored chapel, a spring-fed lake, an 1880’s shearing shed, and the @du_fermier restaurant garden.

Let’s Keep This Growing! 

This list is just the beginning. There are always more inspiring voices, more gardeners with wisdom to share, and more ways to learn from each other. If you have a favourite account, website, or resource that isn’t listed here, please share it in the comments! I’ll continue updating this post so it remains a living, evolving source of inspiration for us all.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed—this is the true magic of community, and I couldn’t be more grateful to be on this journey with you. 

I’ve shared some of my favourite insights over the past year, like Supporting Local Eco-Friendly Businesses on Facebook, The Hands That Grow and Cook: A Visit to Bar Midland’s Productive Garden on Instagram, and The Beauty of Diverse Productive Gardens on Pinterest. Each post has brought new ideas and connections to our wonderful community.

If you’ve enjoyed these, I’d love for you to join me in person at my upcoming workshops! It’s a chance for us to meet face-to-face, share stories, and dig deeper into all things sustainable gardening and community.

Can’t wait to meet you all and explore together—see you there!

Happy growing,

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

Soil Testing: Know Your Soil

Understanding the composition and health of your soil is fundamental to cultivating a thriving, productive garden. In regions like Daylesford, Victoria, with its rich history rooted in the gold rush era, soil testing is something to consider due to potential contamination from past mining activities and modern environmental factors.

The Importance of Soil Testing

Soil serves as the foundation for all plant life, influencing nutrient availability, water retention, and overall plant health. However, soils can harbour contaminants such as heavy metals—lead, arsenic, cadmium—stemming from historical industrial activities, mining operations, and contemporary sources like road runoff. These pollutants can adversely affect plant growth and pose health risks to humans, especially when growing edible plants.

Historical Context: Daylesford's Gold Rush Legacy

Daylesford's vibrant history as a gold rush town in the 19th century has left an indelible mark on the landscape. During that period, gold extraction processes often employed toxic substances, including mercury and cyanide, which could have led to soil contamination. Additionally, the infrastructure developed to support mining, such as roads and settlements, introduced other pollutants into the environment. Over time, these contaminants may have persisted in the soil, underscoring the need for regular testing, particularly for those cultivating fruits and vegetables.

Modern Environmental Concerns

Beyond historical pollutants, contemporary factors contribute to soil contamination. Road runoff, for instance, can introduce heavy metals and hydrocarbons from vehicle emissions and tyre wear into adjacent soils. Urban and suburban gardens might also be affected by residues from past use of lead-based paints or pesticides. 

Understanding these potential sources is vital for maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem.

Soil Contaminants and Their Impact on Nutrient Density

Contaminated soils can significantly impact the nutrient density of the produce grown within them. Heavy metals can interfere with plant nutrient uptake, leading to deficiencies that affect both plant health and the nutritional value of the harvest. Moreover, certain plants may accumulate these harmful elements, posing direct risks to consumers. For a deeper exploration of soil health and its influence on plant vitality, refer to our previous post on "Growing Soils."

VegeSafe: Ensuring Safe Gardening Practices

Recognising the importance of soil safety, the Victorian government supports initiatives like VegeSafe, a community science program operated by Macquarie University. VegeSafe offers free soil testing services to residents, analysing samples for metal contaminants and providing guidance on safe gardening practices. 

Participants receive detailed reports on their soil's composition, empowering them to make informed decisions about cultivating edible plants. This initiative is invaluable for urban gardeners and those in historically industrial areas, ensuring that the produce they grow is safe for consumption. (More information on VegeSafe)

Taking Action

Ensuring the safety and productivity of your garden starts with understanding your soil's composition. Here's how you can take proactive steps:

1. Test Your Soil: Utilise programs like VegeSafe or private laboratories to assess your soil for potential contaminants.

2. Educate Yourself: Explore our comprehensive guide on "Growing Soils" to gain insights into building and maintaining healthy soil ecosystems.

3. Enhance Your Skills: Attend our upcoming productive garden workshop, where we'll delve deeper into soil health, sustainable practices, and techniques to maximise your garden's potential.

By taking these steps, you can create a safer, more productive growing space while protecting your health and the environment. Join us at our next workshop to learn more!

Ready to uncover your soil's secrets? At Little Cottage on a Hill, we blend expert insights with practical, hands‐on learning. Secure your trusted VegeSafe soil test and join our workshop to master sustainable techniques for a thriving garden retreat.

Looking for a bit of extra inspiration? Check out:
• What I’m Planting in My Garden This Week on Pinterest
• Growing Philosophies: Permaculture for Beginners on the blog
• What to Do in the Garden This Month on Instagram

I can’t wait to chat—reserve your spot today.

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

I’m Writing a Book – And I Want You to Come on the Journey With Me

For years, people have asked me: When are you going to write a book?

The truth is, I always knew I would – but I also knew it had to be at the right time, for the right reasons, and with the right people. That time is now.

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve signed a publishing deal with Murdoch Books, working with the brilliant Jane Willson, to bring this book to life. It’s a project that draws on everything I’ve learned—from my years in landscape architecture, to creating Oak & Monkey Puzzle, to embracing the deeply personal and intentional life I now live at Little Cottage On A Hill.

It will be a book about gardens, but not just any gardens. It will explore the intersection of beauty and abundance, of design and productivity. It’s a culmination of my expertise as a landscape architect and lifelong gardener, bringing together the art and science of making a garden that works hard, nourishes deeply, and feels like an experience.

What Can You Expect?

I’ll be sharing glimpses behind the scenes—from the creative process to the unexpected challenges, the triumphs, the slow revelations, and the deeply personal moments that will shape the book. There will be conversations, reflections, and invitations to be part of this in ways I haven’t done before.

I have until August to write the book, and it will be released around September 2026 (books take time!). But this isn’t something I want to do in isolation—I want it to feel like something we’re creating together.

So, let’s begin. I’d love to hear from you—what would you want to see in a book from me? What are the questions you’d love answered? Share your thoughts in the comments, via email, or over on Instagram.

This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to take you along for the ride.

As I step into writing this book, you might enjoy these stories—whether to get to know me better or to spark ideas on what you'd love to see in my writing:

Living Well Spotlight: My Bucket List – A glimpse into the experiences that shape how I live and create.
Connecting with Nature for Creative Self-Care – How the garden and landscape feed my creativity and sense of purpose.
Discover the Story Behind the Natasha Morgan Brand – The journey that brought me here and the values that guide my work.

Or, if you're looking for something more hands-on, you might love our newest e-book: Introduction to Backyard Chicken Keeping—a practical guide to starting your own flock.

And if you’d rather learn alongside me, you can explore my upcoming workshops here: https://www.natashamorgan.com.au/shop

I’d love to hear what resonates with you—let’s continue the conversation!

Natasha xx

For glimpses into workshops, daily life, and my thoughts from Little Cottage on a Hill, you can find me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. And if you’d like a more personal update, subscribe to my Newsletter for a monthly note on what’s growing, what’s inspiring me, and what’s next.

Click the links below to stay connected—I’d love to have you along for the journey.

The Verge Garden Story

When moving from Oak & Monkey Puzzle to Little Cottage on a Hill, I was looking for a small space that wouldn’t feel small—a place where I could synthesise the best of the lessons learned over my nine years at Oak & Monkey Puzzle. I considered properties on the edge of town and another near a gully, but when I found the little cottage diagonally opposite the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, I knew it was something special. With its deep volcanic soils and wide verges, it presented an incredible opportunity.

Council constraints became opportunities. The sloping embankment, rather than a challenge, was a chance to create an ornamental buffer to the street while also capturing runoff before it reached the lower planting areas. The guidelines encouraged thoughtful design—respecting setbacks, ensuring clear sightlines, and integrating plantings with essential services. What could have felt like restrictions became a framework for creativity.

Whilst I never created a drawing, everything was down ‘on the ground’. The process of creating the verge garden began with meticulous planning. I measured offsets to ensure compliance with council guidelines, first marking out areas with pegs and string before refining them with surveyor’s spray paint. Removing the grass was the first major task. Given my timeframe, I opted for an excavator to scalp the grass from the designated areas, but for those with more time, solarisation—covering the grass with a tarp or thick mulch for several months—is a viable, chemical-free alternative. I personally don’t support the use of herbicides in any form.

With the space cleared, the verge garden became a site for experimentation in three dimensions. Being on a corner block, the garden is split into two aspects: a west-facing section and a north-facing one, each with its own microclimate. This has allowed me to play with espaliered fruit trees, climbing frames, and cloched elements (I use Redpath cloches, which provide protection and extend the growing season). Repurposed materials have also featured heavily—leftover sections of Wattle & Wire fencing found new life in this space. The company has since retired, and the gardening world is poorer for it—someone needs to step in and revive those incredible products!

Edimentals—plants that are both edible and ornamental—play a starring role in the verge garden. From productive fruit trees to herbs that soften the edges and invite pollinators, the plant selection is a blend of beauty and function. This approach ensures that the garden remains not only productive but also a visually engaging part of the streetscape, fostering curiosity and interaction from passersby.

Hepburn Shire’s nature strip planting guidelines have been invaluable in shaping this project. They provide clarity on what can be planted without a permit and what requires council approval (including raised garden beds and small trees). For those considering their own verge garden in the shire, I highly recommend reviewing the full guidelines, which can be found on the Hepburn Shire Council website: hepburn.vic.gov.au/naturestrips.

The verge garden at Little Cottage on a Hill is more than just an extension of my home garden—it’s a public space, an experiment in design, and a statement about how small spaces can be both beautiful and abundant. It’s an invitation to rethink what a nature strip can be.

For anyone considering their own verge garden, my advice is to start small, embrace council constraints as design prompts, and think about how your space can contribute to the broader landscape. These gardens are a conversation with the community—places where people stop, admire, and, sometimes, even share in the harvest.

A verge garden is more than just plants—it’s a chance to bring beauty, productivity, and connection to your street. Start small, work with your space, and let it evolve. Whether it’s a handful of herbs or a tapestry of edimentals, every planting adds to the richness of the landscape.

Thinking of transforming your verge? I’d love to hear your plans—share them below!

If you’re new here, welcome! You might enjoy these stories:

Documenting Little Cottage on a Hill – A garden shaped by hand and heart.
Gardens, Growth, and Community – My journey in landscape and garden-making.
Garden Tour — A closer look at the spaces I’ve created.

Or, if you’d love to learn alongside me, explore my upcoming workshops here: https://www.natashamorgan.com.au/shop

I’d love to see you there!

Natasha xx

Follow along on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, or visit my website for more insights into gardening, sustainable living, and the quiet magic of growing.