In winter we add layers of clothing especially here in Tasmania. We start with many thin layers of undergarments, working up to a couple of jumpers, a puffer jacket, scarf, beanie and gloves. This reminds me of our garden. Layers upon layers are exactly what our gardens need.  Layers for warmth  in gardens, are ground covers, grassy plants, small shrubs, tall shrubs with a few trees. These layers protect plants from the cold and damaging frosts.

In summer we do the reverse and shed layers of clothing, seek shade and a cool drink. Plants, birds and wildlife also crave shade and a cool drink. Layers of plants provide shade and protect the moisture in the ground. With too much heat and lack of moisture our plants will become stressed and shed their leaves.

layers work well for both winter and summer gardens.

You don't need to be an ecologist, a native plant expert, or have any knowledge at all.

You don't need to transform your whole yard, balcony, or windowsill overnight.

Start small.

Replace one exotic plant with a native plant.

Let fallen leaves stay.

Add a dish of water.

Every small act of kindness, however imperfect, is a reflection of love.

Plants and animals want to live in a nice suburb, and a nice suburb is one that meets all their needs and has the same qualities we are looking for in the real estate guide. It has a rich cultural diversity, anyone who is special lives here; the beautiful, the talented and the interesting are all here, an amazing mix of characters. There is plenty of happy chatter and banter amongst the residents giving a relaxed friendly feel to this suburb. This community has a mix of young and old, with a healthy mid range raising their families, all are contributing to keep this suburb vibrant in subtle and not so subtle ways. This suburb looks after its own water supply which it keeps clean with plenty of workers, including fish, frogs and platypus. Plants line the edge of all the streams and in-stream as well, ensuring an A grade filtering system for all the residents. There is no waste here, everything is biodegradable and recycled within the suburb. "One man's trash is another man's treasure" is the motto. This suburb has clean air, full of scents that are more noticeable after the rain and with the change of the seasons. Breathe it in. Yes' this is a very good suburb indeed. Is it yours?