minimise the risk of garden escapees
I’ve heard it said that a landscape designer who isn’t a gardener may not necessarily make the right choices when it comes to plant selection and placement. That may be so if the designer has limited horticultural knowledge.
Let me add, that a gardener or garden designer without an appreciation for the natural environment and its intricacies, may put their love of a particular plant ahead of the survival security of indigenous species in their area.
Pampas grass, a tall, tussocky perennial and Agapanthus, both environmental weeds in Australia yet found in many gardens, have the potential to distribute seed for many kilometers. Responsible gardeners often deadhead such plants prior to seed set, but what of the garden when the dedicated plant-lover moves on? Will the next residents be as keen to manage the garden in this way?
Why not try a sterile variety, or one without a reputation for being invasive...better yet, why not try a native plant in your garden? There are wonderful indigenous alternatives to most problematic plants. Check out your local council...many have fantastic resources for gardeners.
