Solitude and Connection Through Gardens

There is a quiet presence in a garden. The kind that is felt rather than seen—the rustle of leaves shifting in the breeze, the hum of pollinators moving from bloom to bloom, the slow exhale of the earth after rain. To stand within it, hands in the soil, is to be held by something larger than oneself.

People often think of gardening as a solitary act, but I have never found myself alone in a garden. Whether in the sprawling expanse of Oak & Monkey Puzzle or the intimate confines of Little Cottage On A Hill, I have always been surrounded—by the unseen networks beneath my feet, the birds and insects that move through the landscape, and the shifting rhythms of the seasons.

Gardening is an act of connection. It is a dialogue, a conversation without words. The soil responds to our touch, plants lean towards our care, and in return, we are nourished—not just with food but with something deeper, something instinctive. When we nurture and nourish the earth, we nourish and nurture ourselves.

Part of Something Greater

Humans are not separate from nature. We are not visitors or caretakers—we are participants. There is no ‘other’ when it comes to the land; we are woven into its fabric, as much a part of the cycle as the rain that feeds the roots or the fungi that thread through the earth.

This is why a garden, no matter how small, holds such power. It is a reflection of this interconnectedness, a reminder that every action ripples outward. A seed planted is not just the beginning of a plant—it is a commitment, an agreement between you and the land. You tend to it, and in return, it sustains you, offering beauty, nourishment, and a place to rest.

The Solitude of Gardening

There is a certain solitude in gardening, but it is not loneliness. It is the kind that allows you to slow down, to listen, to be fully present. The kind that quiets the noise of the world and makes space for something deeper—intuition, instinct, knowing.

I often find myself alone in the garden as the day draws to a close, the golden light casting long shadows, the air cooling after the heat of the afternoon. These are the moments that shape me, that ground me. The hum of bees still lingers in the air, weaving between the last blooms of the day, and the earth, warmed by the sun, releases its scent. There is no rush, no expectation—only the quiet rhythm of my breath and the land settling into the night.

Gardens as Places of Connection

For all the solitude a garden offers, it is also where I have built some of my strongest connections. A garden is a gathering place—where hands come together to plant and harvest, where stories are shared over a basket of just-picked produce, where skills and knowledge are passed from one generation to the next.

At Oak & Monkey Puzzle, this was at the heart of everything I created—a space where people could come together to learn, to share, to build something greater than themselves. At Little Cottage On A Hill, this spirit continues, in the small acts of tending and growing, in the workshops where hands meet soil, in the quiet moments where a garden teaches more than words ever could.

A Reflection of Life Itself

A garden is never just a collection of plants. It is a reflection of the seasons, of time passing, of growth and renewal. It mirrors our own lives—the stillness and the storms, the moments of dormancy and the bursts of abundance.

To be in a garden is to be reminded of this. To know that we are part of something far greater than ourselves. That in tending the earth, we are tending to our own well-being. That in seeking solitude, we find connection.

And so, when I wander the garden in the evening light, I do so knowing that I am never alone. The land, the seasons, the unseen rhythms of life—they are all there, waiting, reminding me that I belong.

Would you like to cultivate a deeper connection with your garden?

Explore my workshops, where we bring hands to soil and stories to life.

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.

Watering Deeply: The Key to Thriving, Resilient Plants

Watering is one of the simplest yet most misunderstood aspects of gardening. It’s easy to fall into the habit of a quick sprinkle every day, thinking we’re doing the right thing. But in reality, this approach does more harm than good. Instead, watering deeply and less frequently is the key to nurturing strong, resilient plants that can withstand the extremes of our climate.

What Does Deep Watering Mean?

Deep watering is about ensuring moisture reaches the entire root zone of a plant rather than just wetting the surface of the soil. When you water deeply, the water soaks into the soil, encouraging roots to grow further down in search of moisture. This is in stark contrast to a light sprinkle, which only wets the top few centimetres of soil and encourages shallow roots that are more vulnerable to heat, drought, and fluctuations in weather.

The Benefits of Watering Deeply

• Encourages Deep Root Growth

When plants develop deep roots, they can access moisture stored further down in the soil, making them more self-sufficient. This means they require less frequent watering and are far better equipped to cope with dry spells.

• Reduces Water Waste

A light sprinkle often evaporates before it can penetrate the soil, particularly in the heat of the day. Deep watering allows moisture to reach the root zone, where it’s needed most, reducing runoff and wastage.

• Promotes Plant Resilience

Plants with deeper root systems are more resilient to environmental stress. Whether it’s a scorching summer or an unexpected dry period, they can draw on the moisture stored deeper in the soil, reducing their dependency on irrigation.

• Improves Soil Health

Regular, deep watering encourages beneficial microbial activity in the soil, which in turn supports plant health. A well-hydrated soil structure retains nutrients more effectively, leading to stronger, more productive plants.

How to Water Deeply and Effectively

1. Water Less Often, But for Longer

Rather than giving your plants a quick sprinkle every day, aim to water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the season and soil type. This allows the moisture to soak in and encourages roots to grow deeper.

2. Use the Right Method

Soaker hoses, drip irrigation, or slow, steady watering with a hose at the base of plants ensures the water is delivered where it’s needed—at root level—without unnecessary evaporation.

3. Water Early or Late in the Day

Watering in the early morning or late afternoon reduces evaporation and ensures the water has time to penetrate before the heat of the day sets in.

4. Mulch to Retain Moisture

A thick layer of organic mulch (such as straw, bark, or compost) around plants helps lock in moisture, reducing the frequency of watering while keeping the soil cool.

5. Check Soil Moisture

To gauge whether your plants truly need watering, dig a few centimetres into the soil with your hand. If it’s dry below the surface, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, you can hold off.

Watering for a More Sustainable Garden

By shifting away from frequent shallow watering and embracing deep watering techniques, you’re not only saving time and water—you’re also fostering a garden that is more independent, resilient, and in tune with natural cycles. Plants that learn to seek moisture deep in the soil will reward you with stronger growth, increased productivity, and the ability to withstand the harsh conditions so common in our climate.

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.

And don’t forget to follow along on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and my Newsletter for more gardening wisdom.

Thanks so much for following along.

Natasha xx

Hydrangea Paniculata: A Year-Round Beauty in the Garden

There are few plants in my garden that offer as much beauty and seasonal transformation as Hydrangea paniculata. From the moment its blooms emerge in early summer, shifting through a palette of colours with the changing seasons, to the way it holds onto its flowers deep into winter—this is a plant that never fails to bring joy.

A Symphony of Colour Through the Seasons

The first time I planted Hydrangea paniculata, it came without a cultivar name, yet its beauty was undeniable. Over the last decade, I have propagated it from winter cuttings, carrying its legacy from one garden to the next, from Oak & Monkey Puzzle to Little Cottage on a Hill. Each cutting tells a story, a reminder of the way gardens evolve yet remain connected through plants passed on with care.

The flowers start out in a soft green hue before transforming into creamy whites, blush pinks, and deeper rose tones. As the season progresses, they shift into rich burgundy, burnt amber, and, finally, golden hues in winter. Even as the blooms fade, they leave behind a sculptural filigree of veins, a delicate, skeletal beauty that holds its own against the starkness of winter.

Growing Hydrangea Paniculata

Unlike the more delicate mophead hydrangeas, Hydrangea paniculata thrives in full sun and is significantly hardier. It flourishes in cool to temperate climates, easily handling frost and winter dormancy before bursting back into life in spring. Well-drained soil enriched with compost will support vigorous growth, but beyond that, it’s a remarkably resilient plant requiring little maintenance.

• Sun & Position: Prefers full sun to part shade. More sun encourages the strongest flower colour.

• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with added compost or organic matter.

• Watering: Requires regular watering in the first year but becomes more drought-tolerant once established.

• Pruning: Best pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Cutting back encourages a fresh flush of large, showy flowers.

• Propagation: Easily propagated from winter hardwood cuttings—a technique I’ve used for years to continue its presence in my gardens.

Uses in the Garden & Beyond

Beyond its sheer beauty, Hydrangea paniculata is a workhorse in the garden. It makes an exceptional hedge or mass planting, offering a bold display of floral drama. When planted en masse, it creates a breathtaking wave of seasonal colour and texture.

For florists, it’s a dream. The fresh blooms are perfect for extravagant wedding arbours, centrepieces, and bouquets. As they dry, their form remains intact, lending themselves to hanging installations and arrangements that carry the beauty of the season forward.

Where to Source Hydrangea Paniculata

Once difficult to find, Hydrangea paniculata is now much easier to source, with many cultivars available to suit different garden styles and preferences. Whether you're looking for classic varieties or more unique selections, here are some great places to find them in Australia:

• Woodbridge Nursery – Website | Instagram: @woodbridge_nursery

• Woodside Plants & Design – Website | Instagram: @woodsideplantsanddesign

• Lambley Nursery – Website | Instagram: @lambley_nursery

These nurseries offer a variety of cultivars, from the elegant ‘Grandiflora’ to the blush-toned ‘Pink Diamond.’ Whether you're looking to create a bold hedge, a feature planting, or floristry material, these sources provide excellent quality plants ready for your garden.

A Lasting Presence

Now, in the height of summer here in Daylesford, Victoria, Hydrangea paniculata is in full bloom, its flowers catching the golden light of the season. It reminds me that beauty in the garden is not just about fleeting moments but about plants that evolve, adapt, and offer something at every stage of the year. This is why Hydrangea paniculata remains one of my most treasured plants, a constant presence through changing seasons and changing gardens.

For anyone seeking a plant that delivers on beauty, resilience, and versatility, this is the one. A true garden companion, from the first flush of summer green to the golden glow of winter.

If the seasonal beauty of Hydrangea Paniculata has inspired you, I’d love to welcome you to one of my upcoming workshops at Little Cottage on a Hill, Daylesford. Whether you’re looking to design your garden oasis, cultivate a productive and beautifully abundant space, or explore skills in preserving, sustainability and seasonal living, my workshops offer hands-on learning in an intimate, inspiring setting.

Upcoming 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.

Stay connected for more seasonal inspiration:

Thanks so much for following along—I love sharing this journey with you.

Natasha xx

Growing Soil: The Foundation to Vibrant Gardens and Nutrient-Dense Plants

When it comes to gardening, there’s a prevailing mindset that plants are the focus—after all, they’re the ones that bear the flowers, fruit, and greenery we cherish. However, over the years, I’ve come to realise that the true key to a thriving garden lies not in the plants themselves, but in the soil beneath them. Healthy soil is the silent partner in every garden’s success, providing the essential foundation for plant health, nutrient density, and overall garden vitality. The message I always share with fellow gardeners is this: feed the soil, not the plants.

The philosophy of growing soil might seem a bit backwards at first, but it is through nurturing the soil that we ultimately provide plants with everything they need to flourish. Think of the soil as the heart of the garden—rich in essential nutrients, diverse microorganisms, and the structure required to support healthy plant growth. In the same way that we must care for our own health to feel and perform our best, soil health is integral to a garden’s success.

The Backbone of Soil Health: Structure and Beneficial Microorganisms

A healthy garden starts with healthy soil. The structure of the soil dictates how well water, air, and nutrients are retained and made available to plants. It’s not just about the nutrients that exist in the soil, but also the way those nutrients interact with the roots. Soil rich in organic matter provides a more balanced and thriving environment for plant roots to access minerals, water, and air.

The richness of soil goes far beyond its mineral content. Beneath the surface, a vibrant community of beneficial microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, and earthworms work tirelessly to break down organic matter, making nutrients available to plants in a natural and sustainable way. These microorganisms also enhance soil structure, improve water retention, and boost plant resilience. In fact, many plants are able to access the nutrients they need only because of the interaction between their roots and these beneficial organisms.

The concept of growing soil essentially means fostering this community of life—encouraging the soil’s microbiome to thrive, which in turn supports the plants. This approach is central to the notion that we must feed the soil, not the plants. When you focus on soil health, you’re not just adding fertiliser to make plants grow faster; you’re creating an ecosystem where plants can take up nutrients as nature intended, resulting in healthier, more nutrient-dense produce.

Why Soil Health Matters: A Holistic Approach to Gardening

Soil health affects everything—from the growth of plants to the flavour of your vegetables. If your soil is well-nourished and full of life, your plants will thrive without the need for synthetic chemicals or constant fertilisation. Nutrient density, particularly in food crops, directly correlates with the health of the soil. If the soil lacks the proper minerals and microorganisms, plants struggle to absorb nutrients, and the result is less flavourful and less nutritious produce.

A good example of this is the way we see our food garden versus ornamental or lawn-based gardens. While all gardens benefit from good soil, vegetable gardens—where you’re looking to maximise yield and nutrient density—particularly rely on the richness of the soil to deliver the nutrition you need from your harvest. The more diverse and active the soil ecosystem, the better the flavour, the more vibrant the colours, and the higher the nutritional content.

How to Grow Soil

There are a number of practices I follow to build and maintain healthy soil in the garden, ensuring it remains the foundation for plant growth. 

One of the simplest and most effective methods is the no-dig approach, which aligns perfectly with my philosophy of minimal disruption. Digging and tilling can harm the soil’s delicate structure, disrupt beneficial organisms, and lead to erosion and compaction over time. No-dig gardening allows the soil’s ecosystem to flourish undisturbed, creating a healthy, living environment for plants.

In a no-dig garden, organic matter such as compost, mulch, or even lawn clippings are added to the top of the soil, where they break down slowly, feeding the microorganisms and enriching the soil with vital nutrients. 

Over time, these additions form a fertile layer that not only nurtures plant life but also improves water retention and prevents soil erosion. This method also saves time and energy while giving you more space to focus on growing your garden’s beauty and abundance.

Another crucial practice in growing soil is crop rotation, which helps prevent soil depletion. By rotating what you grow in different areas each year, you prevent any one set of nutrients from being overused and ensure that your soil remains balanced. Including deep-rooted plants like legumes (peas and beans) can also help to fix nitrogen in the soil, while other crops will absorb different minerals, keeping the soil in good health.

If you want to further enhance soil health, consider planting green manure crops. Varieties such as clover, mustard, or fava beans are ideal for enriching the soil by adding organic matter and nutrients, particularly nitrogen. These fast-growing plants are typically cut down before they flower and can be left to decompose on the surface, where they slowly break down and return vital nutrients to the soil. This natural process not only boosts fertility but also improves soil structure, enhancing water retention and aeration. Green manure crops help increase microbial activity and add valuable organic matter, supporting a healthy, balanced soil ecosystem that benefits plant growth for the long term. It’s a technique I’ve had huge success with when it comes to promoting good soil structure, especially in heavy soils.

A Sustainable Approach to Soil

Ultimately, soil is the unsung hero of every successful garden. By understanding that it is the soil we’re growing, not just the plants, we tap into a much more sustainable and rewarding approach to gardening.

Matthew Evans, in his book Soil, strongly advocates for seeing soil as a living, dynamic system that needs to be nurtured with organic matter, minimal disturbance, and biodiversity. His philosophy encourages gardeners to grow their soil first, which will naturally lead to healthy, thriving plants and a more sustainable gardening practice. For further insight into Evans’ approach, his book Soil is an excellent resource. 

By shifting our focus to nourishing the soil—through practices such as no-dig gardening, crop rotation, composting, and cover cropping—we create a lasting, fertile foundation that will support vibrant, nutrient-dense plants for years to come. Soil health isn’t just about feeding plants; it’s about fostering a thriving ecosystem that supports life, enriches the environment, and ultimately helps you grow a healthier, more resilient garden.

Take a moment to pause, observe, and appreciate the incredible life happening beneath your feet. In doing so, you’ll begin to understand the profound impact that soil health has on your garden’s success. After all, a garden begins with the soil—and so does its true potential.

Further Reading and Resources

• Matthew Evans’ Soil - An in-depth exploration of soil health, its role in sustainable gardening, and practical advice on building vibrant, living soil ecosystems.

• YouTube Video: “Growing and Nurturing Soil Health” - Watch Matthew Evans’ conversation with Nick Ritar of Milkwood that further delves into the importance of soil health for creating sustainable, thriving gardens. Watch it here.

The Beauty of Diverse Productive Gardens: Finding Inspiration in Every Space

The morning light streams through the summer haze as I sit here, tea in hand, watching the bees buzz between the flowering herbs and vegetables. The garden is approaching its most abundant time now, with tomatoes ripening on their vines and zucchini seemingly doubling in size overnight. From a life of making productive gardens and my transition between Oak & Monkey Puzzle's sprawling 5 acres to Little Cottage on a Hill's intimate 515m², I've learnt that productive gardens come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own unique story to tell.

Nature has a way of teaching us that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to creating a productive garden. Each space holds its own magic, whether it's a tiny urban courtyard or a sprawling rural property. The potential for abundance is always there, if we learn to work with what we have - especially when the earth feels warm beneath our feet and the air is thick with the scent of ripening tomatoes.

Today, I want to share a round-up of inspiring productive gardens that form part of a ridiculously large collection of images in my Pinterest library (I am a serial collector of 'precedent images'). Each demonstrates the myriad of ways productive gardens can be designed and implemented and that with abundance there can be great beauty whilst meeting the needs of each context.

The Layered Garden

Pinterest: theartofdoingstuff.com

Pinterest: France-Voyage.com

There's something magical about a garden that grows up as well as out. I love how climbing beans create living walls, their flowers drawing in buzzing bees while their leaves cast dancing shadows on the plants below. At Little Cottage on a Hill, these vertical spaces have become some of our most precious growing areas. On hot summer days, the layers of green create cool, sheltered spots where tender lettuces can thrive even as the temperature soars.

The Urban Oasis

Pinterest: Blog - Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd.

Pinterest: Frozzmak

Pinterest: Laura

It fills me with joy to see how creative gardeners become when space is limited. Some of the most inspiring productive gardens I've seen are tucked into the smallest corners of city life. Pots overflow with herbs, vertical walls burst with strawberries, and clever trellises transform bare walls into green havens. These spaces remind me that gardening isn't about the size of your plot - it's about working with what you have and finding beauty in the possibilities.

The Traditional Kitchen Garden

Pinterest: Weddingbee

Pinterest: Kate Boucher Cooper

Pinterest: veranda.com

Perhaps it's the rhythm of repeated plantings or the satisfaction of neat rows bursting with life, but there's something deeply grounding about a traditional kitchen garden. Right now, ours is a symphony of summer abundance - tomatoes reaching for the sky, basil perfuming the air, and zucchini flowers opening to greet the morning sun. Between these ordered rows, nature adds her own touch - self-seeded flowers pop up in unexpected places, creating moments of surprise and delight.

The Orchard Garden

Orchards are, for me, special landscape spaces. At Oak & Monkey Puzzle, the fruit trees created their own rhythm through the seasons, from spring blossoms to summer's abundance. The skills I learnt in trying out espaliering was a particular joy - watching fruit trees trained along wires transform a simple fence line into a productive, living wall. Now at Little Cottage on a Hill, we're creating our own espalier orchard along the north-facing fenceline, proving that even in a small space, we can work with nature to create beautiful, productive boundaries. On hot summer days, I'm especially grateful for the dappled shade fruit trees cast, creating perfect spots for both plants and people to gather.

Lessons from an Ever-Evolving Garden

Pinterest: geograph.org.uk

Pinterest: treevitalize.com

Pinterest: apieceofrainbow.com

What I've learnt through my own journey is that productive gardens are truly "open works" - they're never finished, always evolving through seasons and years. Right now, they're teaching me about resilience, about adapting to heat and how to preserve precious water while still creating abundance. This is my driest summer in years, and now, being located in Daylesford, I’m learning about what that means in this location.

Growing Through Change: Productive Gardening for Every Space

As we continue to adapt to our changing climate and smaller spaces, these diverse approaches to productive gardening become increasingly valuable. They show us that whether we have acres or square metres, there's always room to grow, to learn, and to create beauty - even in the challenges of an Australian summer.

Want to learn more about creating your own productive garden? Join me for my upcoming workshop: Workshop with Natasha Morgan. Together, we'll explore how to transform your space, whatever its size, into a thriving productive garden that reflects your unique vision of living well.

I'd love to hear about your favourite productive gardens. What style speaks to you? Share your faves in the comments below —- It’s so good to know from others what inspires them too. 

The Root: Shoot Ratio – Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better

In the world of gardening, there’s a quiet but profound truth that often goes unnoticed amidst the allure of lush foliage and mature plants in oversized pots. It’s the relationship between a plant’s roots and its shoots, and why, when it comes to creating a thriving garden, bigger isn’t always better.

As someone who has spent decades immersed in the nuances of horticulture, I’ve learned that the root: shoot ratio—a plant’s balance between its underground root system and aboveground growth—plays a pivotal role in its health and performance. Let me share why I often favour the humble tubestock plant over its more advanced counterparts and why you might want to do the same.

Understanding the Root: Shoot Ratio

At its core, the root: shoot ratio is a measure of equilibrium. Roots anchor the plant, absorb water and nutrients, and store energy, while the shoots (leaves, stems, and flowers) drive photosynthesis, growth, and reproduction. A healthy balance ensures that a plant can sustain itself, particularly during stressors like drought, transplantation, or pest attacks.

When a plant’s foliage is disproportionately large compared to its root system—often the case with advanced plants in oversized pots—it struggles to support itself. The roots may be unable to uptake enough water and nutrients to fuel the demands of the canopy, leading to stress, slower growth, and reduced vigour.

The Hidden Strength of Tubestock

Buying a smaller, less-developed plant might seem counterintuitive, but tubestock has an inherent advantage. These younger plants typically have root systems proportionate to their size, allowing them to establish quickly when transplanted. Because they haven’t been restricted in oversized pots, their roots are less likely to be pot-bound or encircled, which can lead to long-term issues like girdling and poor nutrient uptake.

From my own experience, tubestock plants tend to “hit the ground running.” Their compact root systems adapt more readily to the garden soil, growing outwards to establish a strong, extensive network. This adaptability often means that within a season or two, tubestock plants outpace their larger, more mature counterparts, both in growth and resilience.

Why Tubestock Outgrows Potted Plants

I’ve come to appreciate the quiet magic of tubestock. These young plants, full of potential, adapt swiftly to the world beyond the nursery’s care. Unlike their older, potted counterparts, they haven’t lingered too long in comfort, tethered by roots bound tightly in circles. Instead, they are ready to stretch and grow, their roots eager to anchor deeply into the soil. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, less time in the safety of ideal conditions leads to greater strength and resilience in the wild beauty of a garden.

As illustrated in the the KES Community Nursery’s case study (images below), the difference between tubestock (right-hand images) and potted plants (left-hand images) becomes clear when you see their results. In February 2009, they planted three messmate gums at the nursery—two tubestock and one more mature tree in a 30cm pot.

Fast forward 20 months, and the results speak for themselves. The tubestock trees had grown to nearly double the height of the potted tree, as seen in their comparison photos. Against the fence railing, the striking contrast in growth rates highlights the advantage of starting with tubestock. Younger, adaptable plants establish faster and grow stronger than their older, pot-bound counterparts - those lacking the vital root-to-shoot ratio.

For more details and to see the comparison yourself, visit their page: KES Community Nursery.

30cm pot Tubestock

One week after planting.

Five months after planting.

Fourteen months after planting.

Twenty months after planting.

The nursery was hit by strong winds 2 years after planting. The tubestock plant performs considerably better.

Reference: (https://www.kes.org.au/nursery/tubes)

The Practical and Sustainable Choice

Opting for tubestock isn’t just better for plant health; it’s also a more sustainable choice. Smaller plants require fewer resources to grow and transport, making them a more environmentally friendly option. They’re often more economical, too—perfect for filling out larger garden spaces without breaking the budget.

A Personal Perspective

I vividly recall planting a windbreak at Oak and Monkey Puzzle using nothing more than a collection of small tube plants. The results were astonishing. Within a few years, the slender saplings had grown into a robust, thriving hedge, outpacing neighbouring advanced plantings. Witnessing the transformation reinforced my belief in the power of starting small.

Even now, at Little Cottage on a Hill, I often find myself reaching for tubestock to create layers of growth in my productive garden. Watching these small plants establish, flourish, and eventually take centre stage is a testament to their hidden strength and potential.

Tips for Success with Tubestock

1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the planting area and enrich it with organic matter. A well-aerated, nutrient-rich soil gives roots the perfect start.

2. Water Wisely: Young roots need consistent moisture, but avoid waterlogging, which can cause rot. Drip irrigation systems are ideal.

3. Mulch Generously: Mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, creating the perfect environment for roots to grow.

4. Patience is Key: While it might take a little longer to see the results you’re after, the long-term rewards are well worth the wait.

Rooted in this understanding…

Gardening teaches us that growth is not a race but a journey. By embracing the root:shoot ratio and the inherent vigour of smaller plants, we not only set our gardens up for success but also align with the rhythms of nature—working with the land rather than imposing upon it.

So next time you’re choosing plants for your garden, consider reaching for the tubestock. These unassuming little plants may just surprise you with their strength and vitality. After all, in gardening, as in life, it’s not about how big you start but how well you grow.

Designing Gardens for All Seasons

Designing Gardens for Every Season: A Personal Reflection

Gardens, like the landscapes they inhabit, are storytellers. With every turn of the season, they whisper tales of change, resilience, and quiet beauty. From the tender green shoots of spring to summer’s exuberant crescendo, the muted richness of autumn, and the stark, sculptural lines of winter, a garden evolves—a narrative in motion.

At Little Cottage on a Hill, I’ve come to cherish this seasonal rhythm, weaving it into the very fabric of my garden’s design. Each element has a purpose, a role to play across the year, ensuring the space feels alive and beautiful, no matter the time.

Here’s how I approach designing gardens for all seasons, where structure and plant selection work in symbiosis to create a landscape that feels timeless and ever-changing.

The Backbone of the Garden: Structure Across Seasons

When blossoms fade and foliage retreats, structure is what remains. It’s the backbone of a garden, holding everything together through the quiet months. In my garden, clipped spheres of Buxus provide a thread of continuity, their evergreen forms anchoring each space with a quiet elegance. These sculptural shapes endure through every season, offering a constant amidst nature’s ebb and flow.

Hedges, too, play an invaluable role. Whether it’s the glossy green of Portuguese laurel or the steadfast presence of yew, hedges create enclosures, guide the eye, and bring a sense of rhythm to the garden. They’re living architecture—soft yet strong, functional yet beautiful.

Paths and walls add another layer of structure. Gravel pathways curve through planting beds, inviting exploration, while stone walls weather with age, their textures deepening the garden’s story. Even vertical trellises lend height and a touch of whimsy, transforming bare walls into canvases for climbers that change with the seasons.

Plants That Earn Their Place

In a smaller garden, every plant must pull its weight. There’s little room for those that offer only fleeting moments of beauty. Instead, I seek out plants that contribute across multiple seasons—plants that evolve with time, revealing new facets as the year unfolds.

• Hydrangea Paniculata: Summer sees its conical blooms in full glory, but even as they fade, their papery forms bring a delicate beauty to winter’s starkness.

• Echinacea: Bright, pollinator-friendly flowers in summer give way to seed heads that stand tall in autumn and catch the frost’s sparkle in winter.

• Miscanthus: Ornamental grasses like this bring movement and texture. Their golden tones in winter soften the garden’s edges, a reminder of warmth even in the coldest months.

• Cornus alba (red-stemmed dogwood): It’s in the depth of winter that this plant truly shines, its vivid red stems a striking contrast against muted backdrops.

These are the quiet achievers of the garden, their beauty unfurling with the seasons, always offering something new.

Celebrating Seasonality in Design

Garden designers like Piet Oudolf have shown us how to embrace seasonality with grace and creativity. His planting designs, characterised by drifts of perennials and grasses, are a masterclass in letting plants express their full life cycles—from their exuberant peak to their quiet decline. Oudolf’s gardens, such as the High Line in New York, demonstrate the power of seed heads, faded flowers, and winter stems to carry a garden through its quieter months.

Other designers who excel in creating year-round interest include:

• Dan Pearson: His work often feels like a conversation with the landscape, integrating naturalistic planting with a sensitivity to structure. His Millennium Forest project in Japan is a stunning example of how structure and planting create a narrative across the seasons.

• Nigel Dunnett: Known for his innovative approach to sustainable planting, Dunnett’s schemes use perennials, annuals, and grasses to create dynamic, seasonally evolving gardens, such as the Olympic Park in London.

• Arne Maynard: His formal gardens often combine traditional clipped shapes with naturalistic planting. The juxtaposition of structure and wildness creates an ever-evolving interplay between control and spontaneity.

• Sarah Price: With an emphasis on texture, light, and movement, her designs celebrate the changing seasons, often drawing on natural landscapes for inspiration.

Designing for Small Spaces

In my own garden at Little Cottage On A Hill, every element has to work hard. Plants that offer a singular moment of beauty—a “one-hit wonder”—simply don’t have a place. By combining structure with hardworking plants and designing with the seasons in mind, even the smallest garden can feel expansive and dynamic.

Think about layering: the interplay of bulbs in spring, perennials in summer, and seed heads in autumn, all underpinned by structural elements like clipped shrubs or a carefully placed trellis. Consider planting for transitions—how does one season flow into the next? Choose plants that soften the edges and draw the eye through the space, making the garden feel larger and more unified.

A Reflection on the Seasons

Gardening for all seasons is, at its heart, an act of mindfulness. It’s about pausing to witness the frost glinting on a seed head, the warmth of winter stems catching the light, or the promise held in the first green shoots of spring.

By designing with structure, selecting hardworking plants, and embracing the rhythm of the seasons, we create gardens that not only endure but bring endless joy. Whether you’re working with acres of land or a tiny urban courtyard, this approach ensures your space remains alive with beauty and meaning.

As the seasons shift, so too does the garden. And in those quiet moments—when we stop to marvel at a seed head or trace the curve of a path—we find ourselves connected, not just to the earth beneath our feet but to the passage of time itself.

Here’s to designing gardens that carry us through every season, reminding us of the wonder that lies in change.

Landscape Lingo: The Chelsea Chop and the Art of Helping Plants Shine

Gardening is a quiet dialogue with nature—a dance between allowing plants their wild freedom and offering a gentle hand when they need it. My sedums have taught me this over time. They’re endlessly generous, resilient companions in the garden, giving so much while asking for so little. But as their blooms swell and grow heavy, they sometimes sprawl outward, leaving a bare patch at their heart and encroaching on their neighbours. There’s charm in their natural sprawl, but in a garden that’s both my sanctuary and a living workshop space, a touch of refinement feels right.

It’s in these moments that the artistry of gardening reveals itself. Over generations, gardeners have discovered thoughtful ways to help plants present their best selves—not just for our pleasure but for their own health and vitality. Among these techniques is one cherished by horticulturists preparing for the Chelsea Flower Show: the celebrated ‘Chelsea Chop.’

The Chelsea Chop: Timing, Precision, and Beauty

The Chelsea Chop is a pruning technique as practical as it is poetic. Named for its timing—late May, coinciding with the Chelsea Flower Show—it involves cutting back herbaceous perennials like sedums by up to half their height. This clever intervention delays flowering, strengthens stems, and encourages a bushier, more compact growth. The result? Later blooms that stand tall and elegant, supported by sturdier frames.

I admire the elegance of this technique, its balance of science and intuition. But for my sedums, whose blooms are a signature of the garden’s display, I’ve chosen another approach. Instead of delaying their beauty, I’ve found a way to support it—a solution that feels as practical as it does poetic.

Crafting Support: A Gentle Hand for Garden Grace

Gardening, to me, is always a collaboration—a conversation between the garden’s wild instincts and the care I bring to its growth. For my sedums, the answer came in the form of handmade frames. Using leftover sections of reinforcing mesh, I crafted curved supports that hold their stems upright, celebrating their natural shape while keeping them from sprawling. With their rusted patina, these frames blend seamlessly into the garden, offering a kind of invisible grace.

This simple act—creating support rather than imposing control—feels deeply satisfying. It’s a reminder that gardening is as much about enhancing as it is about tending, about working with the plant’s nature rather than against it.

Finding Balance: Techniques to Prevent Flopping

While I’ve chosen bespoke frames for my sedums, there are so many ways to support plants with thoughtfulness and creativity. Each technique offers its own charm and practicality:

• Staking: Bamboo canes tied with twine offer simple elegance for taller, singular stems like delphiniums or foxgloves, gently guiding them skyward.

• Grow-Through Supports: Circular or grid-like frames, either crafted or ready-made, allow sprawling plants to grow with structure, naturally weaving through the support.

• Cages: Early-season circular cages help encourage upright growth, perfect for plants that love to tumble outwards.

• Twine Supports: A series of stakes connected by twine creates a rustic corral, offering a soft, intentional way to gather wayward stems.

• Strategic Pruning: For plants like salvias or asters, trimming portions early encourages stronger stems and prevents legginess.

Creativity Meets Practicality

What I love most about these solutions is their blend of artistry and utility. Whether bending wire to shape a bespoke frame or carefully pruning for balance, each decision feels like a small act of creation. Gardening, after all, is a partnership. It’s about listening to the garden, understanding its needs, and crafting solutions that bring beauty and vitality into harmony.

A Place of Both Productivity and Respite

Gardening isn’t just about neatness or control; it’s about creating spaces that feel alive—balanced, welcoming, and abundant. Supporting plants, whether with a Chelsea Chop, a handmade frame, or a rustic twine corral, is a way of nurturing not just the garden but the spirit of the gardener too.

So, as you wander through your own garden, take a moment to notice the plants that might benefit from a little extra care. Imagine how a thoughtful touch—a frame, a stake, or a light pruning—might transform their growth. Each act of support is a gesture of connection, an invitation to collaborate with the natural world.

After all, even the smallest acts of care can help a garden thrive. And in those moments, as you tend to your plants, you might find that the garden is tending to you too.

“As we help a garden bloom, it gently teaches us the art of patience and presence.”

The Sunshine Secret: What Your Veggies Need

The Sunshine Secret: Illuminating Your Garden’s Potential

Every garden has its own story of light. The sun’s gentle dance across your space shapes where tomatoes thrive, where soft mosses carpet the earth, and where leafy greens find their sanctuary. Understanding this light—its patterns and rhythms—is one of the most transformative steps in gardening. It’s the language of nature, quietly guiding us toward creating spaces that flourish.

Decoding the Language of Light

When you start a garden, the words “full sun,” “part shade,” and “full shade” appear again and again, like clues to a puzzle. These aren’t just suggestions—they’re essential keys to knowing where each plant belongs.

• Full Sun: These are the open, sun-soaked areas of your garden that bask in 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They’re the perfect home for fruiting vegetables like tomatoes and zucchinis, Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, and bright flowers that revel in the light.

• Part Shade: These spots receive 3–6 hours of sunlight, often in the cooler morning hours or filtered through leafy trees. They offer a balanced light, ideal for greens like spinach and lettuce or delicate blooms like hydrangeas and foxgloves.

• Full Shade: With less than 3 hours of sunlight each day, these tranquil spaces are often tucked beneath trees or alongside buildings. They may seem like a challenge, but they’re the perfect canvas for shade-loving plants like ferns, hostas, and the understated beauty of hellebores.

Seeing the Light in Your Garden

When I first arrived at Little Cottage on a Hill, I spent hours simply watching the sun move across the garden. There’s a quiet joy in discovering how sunlight touches your space—it’s like getting to know a dear friend. Here’s how you can begin:

1. Sketch Your Space: Start with a simple map of your garden. Throughout the day, observe where the light falls and make notes. In the morning, trace the golden pools of sunlight, and as the day progresses, watch how shade stretches and shifts.

2. Seasonal Shifts: Remember, the sun’s angle changes with the seasons. A corner bathed in summer sunlight may rest in winter shadow. Take time to observe how these patterns evolve throughout the year.

3. Intuitive Tools: Your eyes and intuition are often the best guides, but if you want extra help, sunlight meters or garden apps can measure light levels for you.

Planting with Purpose

Understanding your garden’s light is like finding its heartbeat. Once you know how the sun moves, you can plan with intention:

• For Full Sun: Let these spaces glow with sun-hungry crops like capsicums, sunflowers, and melons. They’ll thrive in the warmth, but don’t forget to water often—these areas dry out quickly.

• For Part Shade: Embrace soft, leafy greens, parsley, and shade-loving flowers. These plants will enjoy the gentler light and respite from the heat of the day.

• For Full Shade: Turn these cool corners into lush retreats. Fill them with ferns, mosses, and hostas, creating pockets of peace and texture.

Visualising Your Garden’s Light

To make sense of these patterns, visual aids can be invaluable. I love drawing simple sun maps of my garden, noting the changing light throughout the day. Photographs taken at different times can also help capture how light and shadow dance across your space.

Another simple trick is to use markers—small stones or flags placed where different light levels fall. These little guides can help you visualise which plants will feel most at home in each corner of your garden.

A Reflection on Light

For me, sunlight is more than a practical element—it’s a mindful teacher. Watching it move through the garden slows me down, reminds me to pause, and connects me to the rhythms of the earth. Every garden is unique, and the way sunlight touches yours will shape its soul.

Take some time this week to observe your garden’s light. Sketch a map, dream about what you’ll plant, and let the sun guide you as you create a garden that not only provides but also inspires.

Join Me to Discover the Light in Your Garden

If you’d like to explore how to work with light and space to create a garden that thrives, I’d love to invite you to my Garden Design workshop. Together, we’ll unlock the secrets of your garden, from understanding sunlight to crafting a space that’s as productive as it is beautiful.

Let’s spend a day planning, dreaming, and designing your perfect garden. You’ll leave with practical tools, creative inspiration, and the confidence to bring your vision to life. Visit Garden Design Workshop for details.

Because a garden shaped by the light is a garden filled with life.

Growing Philosophies: Permaculture for Beginner

Permaculture: A Way of Life for Sustainable Living and Connection to the Land

As November ends, there’s a quiet beginning—a time to reflect, reset, and plan for what’s to come. The end of one season holds the promise of another, and for me, it’s a moment to look closely at the land, observe its rhythm, and consider how to work with it as we step into summer. This mindful pause reminds me of permaculture’s essence: a philosophy deeply rooted in observation, connection, and thoughtful action.

Oak & Monkey Puzzle

Little Cottage On A Hill

At its heart, permaculture is about balance—creating ecosystems that are both productive and regenerative. Whether in a sprawling garden or a small urban space, it invites us to consider how each element contributes to the whole. It’s about making the most of what we have and finding beauty in the functionality of a space. This philosophy has shaped everything I’ve done, from the expansive gardens at Oak & Monkey Puzzle to the more intimate spaces at Little Cottage on a Hill.

Permaculture in Action: Lessons from Bill Mollison and David Holmgren

Permaculture isn’t just a method; it’s a way of understanding our relationship with the world around us. Coined by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in the 1970s, it combines the words “permanent” and “culture” (or “agriculture”), speaking to the creation of resilient, self-sustaining systems. It’s about designing spaces that thrive alongside nature, not in opposition to it. As someone who has spent years exploring the interplay of garden design, sustainability, and community, this approach is a natural extension of how I live and work.

I’ve always been inspired by David Holmgren’s idea that a productive and beautiful garden can exist within the smallest of spaces. His work, alongside the teachings of Milkwood Permaculture, has deeply influenced my journey. Wicking beds, for example, are one way I’ve embraced permaculture principles in my own gardens. These water-conserving beds provide consistent moisture for plants with minimal effort—an elegant solution that reflects permaculture’s focus on working smarter, not harder.

Diagram of the Principles of Permaculture

Living the Land: Core Principles of Permaculture

Permaculture principles are as much about mindset as method—a way of working with the land rather than imposing upon it. These principles guide how I think, design, and create in my gardens and beyond, each one integral to how I live:

• Observe and Interact
  Everything begins with observation. Spending time with the land—watching, listening, and learning—reveals its secrets. Every garden I’ve tended is an evolving space shaped by the lessons hidden in its soil, sunlight, and seasonal rhythms.

• Use and Value Renewable Resources
  There’s a quiet satisfaction in working with what’s naturally available. From reusing materials in garden structures to planting in tune with the seasons, this principle reminds us to find value in what’s already around us.

• Catch and Store Energy
  Small actions create significant impacts. Whether it’s harvesting rainwater or building wicking beds to conserve moisture, this principle is about creating systems that sustain themselves, offering resilience in return.

• Design from Patterns to Details
  Every design starts with the big picture. Understanding the land’s broader context—its sunlight, wind, and natural flow—clarifies the finer decisions that allow a garden to truly thrive.

These principles ground me in the process, reminding me to slow down, observe, and act with intention. Whether you’re tending a sprawling garden or a small windowsill pot, these principles can guide you to create something meaningful.

Permaculture in Practice: My Garden Journey

But beyond the techniques and principles, permaculture reminds us of something more profound: that we are part of the landscape, not separate from it. It teaches us to slow down, observe, and find joy in the small details. Whether it’s watching a bee dart between blossoms, the subtle shift in the air as summer approaches, or the satisfaction of harvesting from the garden, there’s a deep connection waiting to be nurtured.

Embracing Change: Lessons from the Garden

As November gives way to a new season, I’m reminded that permaculture isn’t about perfection—it’s about the process. It’s about learning from nature, experimenting, and finding joy in the unexpected. I encourage you to take a moment to pause, observe your garden (or even a potted plant on your windowsill), and consider how you might work with what you have to create something abundant and meaningful.

This season, as the garden transitions, let it inspire your own new beginnings. Whether it’s through planning a small edible verge, learning a new skill, or simply slowing down to notice the world around you, permaculture has something to offer.

The takeaway is simple yet profound: start small, observe closely, and trust the process. Every season—every moment—is an opportunity to create a garden, a space, a life that reflects who you are and what you value. Let this be your beginning.