Ecological Garden Design: Lessons From the Bush

Do you get overwhelmed with choosing indigenous plants? Not sure how many to buy, what pairs well together, or how to strike a balance between natural beauty and a tidy look? Join us for a one-hour Master Class where you’ll learn how to design an indigenous garden that’s low-maintenance, visually impactful, and budget-conscious. Taken by Michael Benham, the session will include -

• Placemaking & First Principles - Learn how to assess your site and understand its broader context within the landscape. As well as exploring how to match your garden dreams with practical and achievable outcomes.
• Ecological Design Thinking - Discover how to integrate existing views, hide eyesores, enhance street appeal, and work with light, shade, and natural materials.
• Garden Infrastructure & Lawn Alternatives - Tips on designing functional elements like paths, utility zones, and alternatives to traditional lawns.
• Habitat & Biodiversity - Understand the ecological roles of your garden—how to support birds, beneficial insects, reptiles, and amphibians through thoughtful design.
• Plant Selection - Guidance on choosing the right mix of foliage, flowers, Mallee eucalypts, native grasses, and protective/thorny species.
• Debunking the Myths - Separate fact from fiction when it comes to indigenous gardening.

This session is part of a three part series called “Nurturing Indigenous Gardens”. Other topics include  ‘Beyond plants - what else to include’ and ‘Maintaining Indigenous Gardens – Pruning, Trimming, Watering, and Nourishing’.  Book the Series Package for discount. Friends of SGA receive a 15% discount on Master Class full price tickets. You can become a Friend of SGA here. Green Garden Professional (GGPs) receive a 30% discount.