“Plants for the right Places”

My thoughts are sparked by a considered conversation about Warrigal Greens. This morning, a lady shared her experience about the creeping habit of Warrigal Greens (Tetragonia tetragonoides) on her acreage at Nanango. She also took the time to visit Ramesa Nursery to talk with me about its weedy habit on her property and how she felt it would be ideal for gardeners to keep the plant contained. We were certainly on the same page, especially with all this wonderful rain recently which has created perfect growing conditions.

I always appreciate people's thoughts. For me, I’ve always grown it in a round concrete tank garden and therefore haven’t experienced it being given freedom. My gardens are generally quite dry, whereas for this lady, the conditions were in a damp bushland setting; the ideal location for her unwanted plant to thrive. The dried seeds were not so nice to step upon either. Warrigal Greens are a native, groundcover, bush tucker plant. However, in moist and shady conditions, its creeping habit means it will take over if not contained.

The same goes for Mint. Lovely in iced tea and salads, but an absolute garden nuisance if it escapes from its pot in a damp location. I remember my Grandmother asking me to collect mint near the creek on a property in New South Wales. To actually collect the mint, I had to cross the creek, watch for snakes, then gather the lovely, lush mint nestled among the stinging nettles near the bee hives. Memorable moments that’s for sure.

Bamboo is a popular screening plant with lush leaves, but its running roots can quickly spread. Remember that the clumping rather than running types of bamboo are better choices; otherwise, you are bound to have some issues. Perhaps container plantings of clumping bamboo would offer some versatility. For example, you could move smaller pots around as needed.

Wisteria is a stunning flowering vine with a difficult side if planted next to a house. The strength of its twisting stems can destroy timber posts or crush latticework, especially when left to climb unchecked. Wisteria is a plant that needs the right support and space and certainly a plant for the right place; (away from the house on a strong archway, detached pergola or in our case a garden bed with support)

Euphorbia Firesticks is a plant with a hidden danger. Its white sap can cause severe skin and eye irritation. A few years ago I spoke to a lady who suffered terrible eye pain when pruning with no protection; so care is certainly needed with this plant. It’s fine planted in a dry, sculptural garden; however definitely not to be planted near walkways or children’s play areas. There is one large plant in the middle of a garden bed in the Lions Park at Jandowae. It’s great to see it beyond people’s reach.

Fig trees are known for their invasive root systems which seek out moisture with determination. They are certainly not ideal if planted near water pipes or house footings and so of course best planted well away from buildings or in a pot.

Even the traditional favourites like Roses can come with complications. Roses, for example, need space and airflow to avoid fungal issues. They can also be painfully spiky near walkways; so for practical reasons people have dedicated rose gardens to admire their beautiful flowers. I was talking to a friend today who has an impressive one hundred and twenty rose bush collection; definitely a dedicated collector.

A happy garden is achieved with thoughtful planning. Simply consider the mature size of a plant, its root habits, whether it's poisonous, and how far it might spread. Use barriers or pots where needed, and always plant with purpose. Gardening really is a wonderful, rewarding activity and having the right plant in the right place will make everything much easier.