1. Soil Building

Catching Water Runoff

The first step was to manage water movement across the slope. Channels were cut to direct runoff into swales and Zai pits, where moisture could slow, settle and infiltrate. Most tree planting was concentrated in these areas. As the system matured, very little water continued into the municipal stormwater network.

Changing the Microclimate

Pioneer species such as Chrysanthemoides were introduced to anchor the soil and reduce wind exposure. These plants establish quickly and begin shifting microclimate conditions, allowing more permanent species to be added later. As the garden grew denser, climbers were encouraged through shrubs and young trees to buffer wind and shade the soil. Today the early pioneers have mostly been removed and replaced by long-term structural and understory species.

Feeding the Soil Naturally

A combination of nitrogen-fixing trees (including Virgilia oroboides) and a wide mix of perennials was used to support biological activity in the soil. Seasonal applications of the Soil Starter Kit supported this process. The kit includes:

• Awaken for trace mineral remineralisation

• Boost for flavonoid-based biological activation

• Feed for slow-release root-zone nutrition

• Enliven for microbial inoculation

These four components work together to improve soil structure, support root development and strengthen overall plant resilience.

Ground Cover and Living Mulch

For the first three years, all garden clippings were scattered on the soil surface and covered with living mulch. This moderated soil temperature and helped retain moisture. As the garden matured, natural groundcover increased and the need for surface protection decreased. Winter grasses were allowed to remain because they covered the soil effectively. Today they appear only sparsely as the planting has filled in.

On-Site Composting

Excess garden material was converted into compost in a simple in-ground system suited to the harsh conditions of the site. A small wormery was also established in an old bath to process kitchen waste. Both compost and worm castings are used for soil conditioning and planting. These systems are tucked into the landscape and integrated into the garden rather than placed in a separate utility area.

Bulbs and perennials now self-seed readily, indicating a functioning and biologically active soil.

2. Wild Attraction

Wildlife integration has been central to the project. The property now includes an owl box, bird nesting boxes, bird feeders, small water bowls, two natural ponds with fish, bee hives, a bug hotel and various informal habitats created from thickets, branches and protected pockets within the Zai pits. Access points were cut into the Clearview fence to allow small animals to move freely.

A kitchen garden, potting shed and chicken coop complete the productive elements of the space.

Further additions are planned. These include more bird nesting structures, an elevated owl box mounted on a naturalistic post and the introduction of bat houses. Each intervention is guided by the principle that ecological infrastructure should also contribute to the beauty of the site.

3. Vibrant Living

The garden supports day-to-day living as much as ecology. A natural eco pool complements the main swimming pool and is used year-round, supported by a small sauna for winter. Two fire pits provide gathering points, while walkways connect all the garden areas.

Productive elements include honey from the bee hives, eggs from the chickens, and olives and seasonal preserves from the garden’s fruiting plants.

Summary

This project represents a long-term, evolving approach to landscape regeneration. The garden has grown alongside the homeowner’s interests and continues to change each year. The guiding principles have remained constant: improve soil health, encourage biodiversity, and create a landscape that is both functional and beautiful.

The garden contains areas of wilderness alongside cultivated planting. For example, a small rose bed sits comfortably within the broader ecological landscape, demonstrating that personal preference and ecological intent can work together.

A notable aspect of this project has been the engagement of the family’s four children. Their interaction with the garden has become one of its most meaningful outcomes, fostering a direct relationship with nature and the processes that support it.