Discover the beauty and resilience of Australia’s native Coleus and Plectranthus species. From the fragrant Plectranthus graveolens to the charming Cockatoo Bush, these tactile, aromatic plants bring depth, texture, and scent to any garden. Perfect for shaded, waterwise, and subtropical Australian landscapes.
Discover the best orange trees for your garden. Learn about their flavour, season, health benefits, and why citrus make stunning feature trees, pot plants, hedges or espaliers. Grow your own juicy, fragrant oranges with Trevallan’s expert tips.
Plants are more than decoration, they can be diagnostic tools. This blog explores how horticulturists read plant signals to identify soil issues, stress, or disease, and how species like sunflowers and roses can actively help remediate or warn of deeper problems.
This blog dives into how we've been sold the idea that "clean" and "premium" means better but when it comes to honey, coconut oil, and fertilisers, the truth is often the opposite. Learn how processing strips products of their life, and why real change starts at the checkout.
This post challenges the unfair blame placed on garden centres and professional growers for weed spread, calling for better education, recognition of horticulture as a trade, and stricter regulation of unqualified sellers. It urges decision-makers to include trained horticulturists in the conversation.
Trevallan is proud to offer personalised garden consultations with one of Queensland’s most respected horticulturists, Robert Wilson.
With decades of hands-on experience and a passion for sustainable gardening, Rob brings practical, expert advice to your garden gate. His approach is rooted in soil health, plant ecology, and long-term garden resilience. Blending horticultural science with deep respect for nature.
“Can You Fix It?” is a personal and passionate look into the reality of working in horticulture today. Through real-world stories and industry insight, this piece highlights how garden centres often become the emergency fixers for poor advice, quick fixes, and misunderstood plant care. It shines a light on the overlooked professionalism of horticulturists, the lack of industry support for proper training, and the growing gap between good intentions and real expertise.
Mangoes aren’t just for big backyards! This blog breaks down the best varieties and shares simple, practical tips for growing them in pots or small spaces. From pruning to pollination, everything you need for sweet success is right here.
Molasses can be a powerful soil tonic, when used in moderation. Packed with sugars and trace minerals, it feeds soil microbes, boosts plant health, and improves soil structure. This post explains when, where, and how to apply it for the best results, without harming your plants. A little sweet goes a long way!
Heard the tip to smear Vaseline on your tree to stop ants? While there’s a grain of truth behind it, the method can harm your plants more than help. This post unpacks the real issue, hydrophobic soil and offers a safer, more effective solution for protecting your trees from ants and aphids.
Honey is often suggested as a natural alternative to synthetic rooting hormones but does it really work? Research shows mixed results but honey generally doesn’t match the effectiveness of synthetic rooting powders or gels.
Planting myths often contain a seed of truth, but as any gardener knows, the real story is rarely so simple. In gardening, there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all rule. The key is understanding your soil, your plants, and what they need to thrive and being willing to look beyond the hole.
Kevin Ahearn is a timber craftsman, author, and historian who has spent over 50 years salvaging forgotten stories and wood across Queensland. From bush yarns to hand-carved masterpieces, his legacy honours the heart of the region’s pioneer past.
Looking for a fruit tree that’s a little out of the ordinary? Meet the Jaboticaba tree (Plinia cauliflora), a Brazilian gem that grows grape-like, deep purple fruit directly on its trunk—yes, the trunk! This quirky habit, called cauliflory, makes it look like nature’s bubble tea. The fruit is sweet, juicy, and slightly tangy, perfect for fresh eating, jams, or even wine. Slow-growing but worth the wait, it thrives in warm climates and even grows well in pots. If you want a beautiful, unique, and delicious tree, Jaboticaba is the one!
Not all potting mixes are created equal—and the potting mix you choose can make or break your plant’s success. After seeing the latest potting mix experiment gaining attention online, I wanted to share what most people aren’t told: age, storage, and the quality of ingredients all play a huge role.
Many gardeners struggle with plant health issues that appear insect-related, like mealybugs or wilting foliage, but the real culprit is often hidden beneath the surface—hydrophobic soil. When soil becomes water-repellent, it prevents moisture and fertiliser from reaching plant roots, leaving them vulnerable to stress and pest infestations. Even the most diligent watering routine may not be enough. Soil wetters and re-wetting agents are essential tools to restore soil hydration, improve plant health, and prevent nutrient loss. In this guide, we explore how hydrophobic soil forms, the surprising role of ants in this problem, and the best solutions to keep your garden thriving.
Next time you pick up a plant, consider it more than just greenery—it's an investment in expertise, research, and the right conditions for success. Trial and error can be part of the fun, and sometimes bending the rules leads to incredible discoveries.
However, for the best results, expert guidance makes all the difference. With the right advice, gardening doesn’t have to be hard—it can be simple, effective, and deeply rewarding. Seek knowledge, value experience, and watch your plants truly thrive.
At Trevallan Lifestyle Centre, we source our cut flowers from local flower farms and our potted roses from local growers—supporting small businesses, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring fresh, high-quality blooms.