THE milder autumn weather is an invitation to people to get out in the garden and catch up on some of the jobs which are just too draining in the heat of summer.
It’s also a great time for strolling in gardens, big or small, and enjoying the autumn foliage.
Flowers of the Commonwealth Exhibition: Ferny Creek Horticultural Society Exhibition Hall. Flower arrangements representing the countries of the Commonwealth by floral artists from around Victoria and students from Box Hill TAFE Floristry School.
Where: Hilton Road (East End), Ferny Creek.
Admission: $14 admission.
Contact: 9755 2771.
When: 10.30 to 4pm, 25-26 March.
Lemon Tree Cottage* – Upwey: More than 130 salvias, roses and perennials surround the lemon tree at the heart of this terraced garden where arbours link different sections. See also Japanese maples and an extended area of Australian plants.
Where: 59 Ferguson Street.
Size: 0.12 ha (0.3 ac).
Admission: $5.
When:1-2 April.
Mont de Lancey* – Wandin North: Trees dating from the 1880s including a majestic oak and peppercorn, are the framework of this significant historic property. The original design is being faithfully recreated with plantings of appropriate roses, perennials and shrubs.
Extra: Original old well. Museum.
Where: 75 Wellington Road.
Size: 1.2 ha (3 ac).
Admission: $5
Nonesuch* – Lilydale: A creative and eclectic garden containing many surprising elements. Japanese maples, a lake with small island, manicured lawns, woodland area and sunken fernery.
Extras: Craft and paintings.
Where: 150 Hereford Road.
Size: 0.6 ha (1.5 acres).
Admission: $5.
Kangaroo Forest Run* – Panton Hill: Fine selection of native and exotic species chosen for season colour and year-round interest. Themes include drought-tolerant plantings, David Austin rose garden bulbs, walled vegetable garden and vineyard.
Extras: Owner’s sculptures feature.
Where: 106 Rodger Road.
Size: 1.6 ha (4 ac).
Admission: $5
When:2 April.
Gembrook Open Gardenfest: Five local gardens. Three large country gardens between six and 10 acres with a huge range of deciduous and unusual trees and two town-based gardens, one less than two years old and a rock garden featuring large boulders in the landscaping.
Extra: All proceeds to Gembrook CFA.
Where: Phone 5968 1080 for details.
Admission: $10 five garden pass.
When: 10am to 5pm, 22-23 April.
Karen’s Garden* – Hoddles Creek: Climbing roses bloom on chains and swags and scramble over arches in this well-designed, generous and colourful garden. Excellent autumn show featuring exotic trees.
Where: 325 Eacotts Road.
Size: 1.2 ha (3ac).
Admission: $5.50
When:29-30 April.
Merlin’s Garden* – Montrose: A series of spectacular stone terraces shows off an extensive range of plants including magnolias, conifers, maples, roses and more. Rock pools, an orchard, vegetable garden and sculpture add to the value.
Where: 7 Old Coach Road.
Size: 0.6 ha (1.5 acres).
Admission: $5.
* Australia’s Open Garden Scheme – 10am to 4.30pm.
