A Brief Guide to Australian Native Plants

You don’t need to look far to find some gorgeous natural beauty. Incredibly, we have thousands of native plant species in Australia. They bring a unique look that can brighten up any living space and are fantastic as a gift. 

If you are interested in growing some native plants in your garden, we have created a brief guide to make them look great for longer. 

What makes Australian native plants a great choice?

For a stunning and low-maintenance garden during the summer, native plants are the ideal choice. With their minimal water and fertiliser requirements, they save you valuable time and money on garden upkeep. These plants have adapted to thrive in the challenging Australian climate, making them well-suited for your garden. In contrast, exotic flowers introduced to Australia often struggle during our summers, as they are naturally inclined towards wetter conditions.

Native plants contribute significant value to the Australian environment. They serve as vital sources of food and shelter for indigenous wildlife, attracting a diverse array of birds, butterflies and lizards, infusing your garden with vibrant life and biodiversity. 

How do I care for my Australian natives?

Maintaining native Australian plants is a relatively low-maintenance task, but there are a few essential steps you should take regularly to ensure your plants remain in optimal condition and continue to thrive beautifully.

Don’t water excessively

Australian native plants have adapted to survive in harsh conditions, so it's important not to overwater them. These plants are skilled at conserving moisture, so avoid excessive watering and let them thrive naturally.

Mulching

Mulch decreases water evaporation from the soil and encourages worms to keep the soil aerated and nutrient dense. It is recommended to apply mulch to a depth of 7.5 to 10cm while leaving a ring around the stem clear. 

Minimise use of fertiliser

Native and indigenous plants have evolved to thrive in low-nutrient environments, so fertilisers are generally unnecessary. They are well-suited to Australian soil and can flourish without additional nutrients.

Pruning

Native plants respond positively to pruning as it stimulates new growth and optimises flower production for the next season. Use sharp secateurs or a pruning saw and make cuts just above a node when pruning. Aim to remove at least 20 mm of diseased plant material annually for optimal results.

Pesticides

Try your best to not use pesticides on your native plants. Many native plants will attract insects that are desirable for gardens. It also helps with the control of pests as it makes it safe for predators that prey on pests.

Australian native plants are always a great choice for any garden or even indoors as decoration. If you are looking for flowers to display in your home or would like to send a gift to a loved one, we have a beautiful range of native flowers for you to choose from.

We love to see Australian native plants blooming and thriving. Share your beautiful native flower gardens with us on Facebook or Instagram using the hashtags #AlwaysInterflora #AlwaysThereAnywhere  and #InterfloraAU.