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!

Monday, August 27, 2012

True Free Range Egg Farming & Not So Free Range

Not all Free Range eggs are ethically farmed. I think it's important to be educated about the choices we are making, rather than just trust the labelling. 

Free Range Eggs -  Farm 1



True Free Range Eggs - Farm 2



It's best to know something about the farm you are purchasing from to ensure you are buying what you are paying for!

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Delicious Chocolate and Beetroot cake from Peninsula Fresh Organics

I have to share the delicious recipe I found on the Peninsula Fresh Organics Website for Chocolate and Beetroot cake. Yum!!



I used Willie's 100% Cacao and I think 160 degrees Celsius fan-forced would be best, but otherwise, could not fault this delicious cake. Try it at home and check out Peninsula Fresh Organics. They are a great local supplier, (if you live on the Mornington Peninsula), especially if you want fresh organic produce and goodies without the extra kilometers.

Thanks Guys ... you are saved in my favourites!

Thursday, August 9, 2012

A true living tree chair





How incredible is this? This picture and article appeared on Milk Way Scientists.


In 1986 Peter had the idea of growing a chair. Nine years later Peter and Becky became partners. Pooktre was born. Together they have mastered the art of Tree shaping. Pooktre has perfected a Gradual shaping method, which is the shaping of trees as they grow along predetermined designs. Designing and setting up the supporting framework are fundamental to the success of a tree. Some are intended for harvest to be high quality indoor furniture and others will remain living art.

For More Information : http://pooktre.com/


Monday, August 6, 2012

Our first lamb!

How exciting! We were fortunate enough to be home yesterday to witness the birth of our first Dorper lamb! The labour was intense and I must admit, at some times I was a bit uncomfortable, reminiscing about my own labours!
The ewe would stand up, hoof the ground and then lie down, straining her neck and stretching her face towards the sky as she pursed her lips and pushed. My children were completely mesmerised by the entire process.
When the lamb eventually pushed through, the ewe abruptly ran to the middle of the flock, with a lamb halfway through the birthing process. The other sheep scattered at the sight of this terrified ewe (resembling a push-me-pull-you from Dr Doolittle) . Suddenly the lamb dropped and natural instinct took over. She cleaned her little boy and he was standing on wobbly legs in no time. Completely beautiful.
Even better was what we witnessed this morning. Our Alpaca Kerrie, who was purchased in the hope that he would help to protect the sheep, was standing guard, protecting the lamb from any unseen dangers. It's truly wonderful when a plan comes together!

Friday, August 3, 2012

Support Local Farmers!

The following is true footage of Fresh Aussie grown Oranges being dumped because we have a glut of imported fruit. It is such a waste and completely devastating to the growers. Come on, let's buy local and save Aussie Farmers.