Marcelle Nankervis is a Horticulturist who has worked in the Horticultural Media for over 16 years.
She is passionate about Permaculture, Sustainability and Gardening for the Future.

Marcelle regularly writes for Your Garden magazine and Better Homes and Gardens.
Her first book was Plants for Australian Dry Gardens (Murdoch Books).
Marcelle's second is Smart Gardening (Exisle Publishing).

Welcome to my Blog!

As a horticultural writer I often come across people, stories, tips, tricks and real gems of information that never really make their way out of my notebook. I am hoping to share a few of these insights here as well as my own gardening experiences, which includes getting my children excited about plants.

I believe that a strong connection with the garden and our landscape when we are young is vital. I am hoping that educating my children in "Green Living" and "Smart Gardening" will provide them with the fundamental building blocks necessary for them to live long and healthy lives, while also doing their bit in helping to create a sustainable and green future for all.

Happy Gardening!

Friday, July 8, 2011

Great news: the Australian Garden in Cranbourne is now free for all!

The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is pleased to announce that, effective immediately, visitors will enjoy free entry to the Australian Garden.

The permanent removal of entry fees to the Australian Garden has been made possible through increased annual funding from the Victorian Government and will allow more people than ever to experience the sights and sounds of the Australian Garden.

One of the key goals of the Australian Garden is to be a community hub providing inspiration for, and education about, the use of Australian plants to create sustainable home gardens. This is a vital role in the context of creating sustainable and liveable communities within the south-east growth corridor.

“This is really exciting for us and we’d like to thank the Victorian Government for this wonderful initiative,” said Dr Philip Moors, Director and Chief Executive of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

“We opened Stage 1 of the Australian Garden in 2006, and have had a fabulous response from visitors. We’re really delighted that free entry will make the Australian Garden accessible to so many more people,” said Dr Moors.

Stage 1 of the Australian Garden comprises nine hectares. The opening of the second and final stage in mid-2012 will bring the garden to a total of 18 hectares and complete the vision for a garden which illustrates the journey of water through the Australian landscape while showcasing the great diversity and beauty of Australian plants.

For more details, click here.