“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.
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.
As National Tree Planting Day approaches, I grapple with a deep sense of frustration. While well-intentioned, planting trees feels hollow against the backdrop of ongoing destruction of cherished landscapes like Scott’s Farm in Ripley Valley. Despite the proven mental and physical health benefits of nature, urban sprawl continues to encroach on every green space. National Tree Day, established by Planet Ark in 1996, aims to foster environmental stewardship by encouraging Australians to plant and care for native trees. However, without concrete plans and sustained actions, these efforts risk becoming mere PR gestures. Proper tree management, selecting the right species, and ensuring aftercare are crucial. We need to shift the conversation to comprehensive green growth planning, creating urban jungles rather than concrete deserts, and fostering a genuine culture of environmental responsibility. Only then can we make a meaningful difference.
As my garden is a little lacking at the moment I love it when I go for long drives and can surround myself with bushland and beautiful old homes with established gardens. It pains me greatly when beautiful bushland is destroyed by plantless housing communities.
Spending time in nature can make us mentally, emotionally and physically healthier. We can all harness the magic of plants by creating our own green space. Are you letting nature reclaim you?
Want correct and helpful advice on gardening - visit your local garden centre. The best place to get correct information is a place that specialises in that particular subject.
