Botanic gardens and other plant collections provide valuable reference points and benchmarks for plant adaptions in the wild
By John Fitzsimmons
Revegetation is a complex specialist subject built on knowledge and experience of many interconnected fields. It is now an integral process in repairing damage to landscapes following fire or damaging weather events, post-mining or other industrial activity, and re-connecting disrupted ecosystems.… Continue reading
Read MoreBy Dr Chris Reed
Climate change has increased the intricacy of our land management. As an industry we need to look more intently at environmental rehabilitation and continue to put into place strategies that protect our ecosystems, lives and livelihoods.
I have always been a bit of a bush kid.… Continue reading
Read MoreBy John Corban
During a recent interview with Grant Boyle, owner of Fig Landscapes, I invited my clients to attend and ask questions about running his business. We loved his humble, open and honest chat.
John: To what do you attribute your success?… Continue reading
Read MoreBy Daniel Fuller
Nurseries must invest in trusted varieties, as many have failed by experimenting with unsellable plants. On the other hand, relying too heavily on past successes can also lead to failure if you can’t adapt to a changing market.… Continue reading
Read MoreBy Lisa Wightwick
Over the past few years, the term ‘sustainability’ has been increasingly utilised in the world’s collective vocabulary. This greater awareness of anthropogenic environmental impact has necessitated products and practices that either minimise or negate them. Ironically, the horticulture industry, particularly the production sector, isn’t actually as ‘green’ as it might seem.… Continue reading
Read More
A biodiverse green roof was built on top of a seven-story commercial office space in Kensington, Victoria
By Michael Casey
Biodiversity is increasingly recognised as a driving force behind many of our urban greening projects worldwide. As cities expand, they face the challenge of preserving and enhancing natural ecosystems, leading to a surge in biodiversity-centred urban planning.
Biodiversity in urban environments contributes to ecosystem services, such as improved air quality, climate regulation, and enhanced human well-being.… Continue reading
Read More
Developing 100% compostable bioplastics which can break down without leaving a trace (Image: Murdoch University)
CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and Murdoch University have launched The Bioplastics Innovation Hub. This $8 million collaboration will work with industry partners to develop a new generation of 100% compostable plastic.
The Bioplastics Innovation Hub aims to revolutionise plastic packaging by developing biologically derived plastic that can break down in compost, land, or water.… Continue reading
Read MoreWater scientists from Australia and China have proposed a more effective method of removing organic pesticides from drinking water, reducing the risk of contamination and potential health problems.
A 62% rise in global pesticide use in the past 20 years has escalated fears that many of these chemicals could end up in our waterways, causing cancer.… Continue reading
Read MoreBy Daniel Fuller
Do you know what you want to be when you grow up? Sure, you know it is something to do with plants, but we belong to a huge industry! So, how do you find the next step in your journey, especially if you want to progress without the usual linear paths like getting into management or starting your own business?… Continue reading
Read MoreBy Clive Larkman
Since the Columbian Exchange, a few everyday flavours have become a key ingredient in most diets, one of which is garlic. Common garlic is Allium sativum, one of the oldest cultivated plants. There are reports of it being grown around 5000 years BC.… Continue reading
Read More
