Creating the perfect alfresco area

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Whatever your level of experience or interest in gardening, the alfresco area in your Solana home is somewhere to relax and enjoy. Green fingers at the ready? Read on to find out how to turn your private patio into a stunning array of colours with fragrances to match.


Some flowers are sun worshippers

 You’ll need to plan according to the climate in the coastal areas of South East Queensland. When designing your alfresco, consider verbenas. These are easy care and fast-growing plants, in the ground or in pots. They’re great for giving a bit of high-impact colour. 

Try the purple Verbena Bonariensis. You can place them between other favourites. These include:  

  • Gardenias

  • Hydrangeas

  • Dahlias

  • Zinnias 

  • Petunias

All of these will thrive well in the sunshine.

Herbs and Veggies

 Nothing beats being able to reach for a handful of fresh herbs when entertaining or creating a tempting salad. Many familiar herbs like thyme, basil, parsley, and rosemary will thrive in pots. 

Try adding lavender too. Its fragrance has become synonymous with relaxation. Jasmine is another good choice for a pleasant, rich scent.

Some vegetables are ideal for growing in containers. These include potatoes, cherry tomatoes, long-leaf lettuce, rocket, squash, and radishes. 

Remember that plants grown in containers need plenty of watering, potentially every day. Pot and plant size, along with the weather, will affect how often you water. Test the pot by poking your finger into the soil and see if it is still moist or dry.

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Putting Your Stamp on Your Outdoor Haven

 Here are a few more tips to help you get the most from your outdoor area:

  • Hanging baskets and a strategically placed mirror can add an extra dimension

  • Remember that one potted plant makes more impact than lots of small ones

  • Make room for a large pot and grow an olive, lemon, or bay tree

  • Add some LED lights so that you can stay outside longer when it’s cooler

  • Style your area using fabrics and cushions and get inspiration from flower colours 

  • Always choose alfresco furniture that you find comfortable to sit in!

Make the Most of Outdoor Living

Remember to fertilise your pots regularly. Fish emulsion and liquid seaweed provide a great all-around plant health tonic. They’ll help plants stay more disease resistant and drought tolerant too.

Sharing gardening tips is something enjoyed in the Solana community. Garden Club is hosted every week at the Livewell Centre, and our community garden is flourishing all year round.

 

Make a time to visit Solana Bribie Island to tour the Livewell Centre and our final display homes.

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