A wildlife garden is one that earns its keep. The right native trees feed honeyeaters, lorikeets and native bees through the seasons, give shelter for small birds and habitat for insects and lizards that keep the whole system ticking.
Five natives below do most of the work. Plant them together and the garden runs itself.
Layer for year-round nectar
The key is staggered flowering. Banksias give winter nectar when little else is open. Grevilleas flower nearly all year. Corymbia Wildfire and Eucalypts cover summer. Acacias bring spring pollen. Stack them together and there is always something flowering for visiting wildlife.
Build the canopy first
Eucalypts and Corymbias give the upper storey for birds. Below them, Banksias and Grevilleas fill mid level and give nesting cover. Ground level Acacias finish the layered structure that wildlife actually uses.
Skip the phosphorus
Banksias, Grevilleas and many natives evolved in low phosphorus soils. They thrive on a low-phosphorus native blend or no fertiliser at all once established. Regular phosphorus fertilisers are best skipped — the natives are happiest left to their own devices.
Drainage and sun
Most of these natives love sharp drainage and full sun. If your soil is heavy, mound plant 30-60cm above grade for easy establishment. Shadier sites give softer flowering and a slower steady establishment.
Leave the mess
Spent flower spikes, fallen bark and leaf litter are habitat. Don't sweep the garden too tidy. Insects, lizards and small birds rely on the layer of natural debris to thrive.
Frequently asked questions
How fast will wildlife find the garden?
Honeyeaters often turn up within weeks of planting flowering Banksias or Grevilleas. Lorikeets follow when the gums flower. The wider the planting matures, the more species arrive.
Will these trees suit small gardens?
Yes. Corymbia Wildfire and Grevillea Moonlight are compact enough for suburban blocks. Pair with a single small gum and a Banksia for a layered habitat in 30 square metres.
Do natives need watering?
Through the first two summers, yes. After establishment, most will manage on rainfall in most Australian climates.
Comments