How to transform a cleared orchard into a thriving, layered ecosystem
In short: Sue Guymer and Bill Aitchison turned a barren, weed-choked ex-orchard into a lush bush block. By mimicking natural vegetation layers and integrating water features, they created a biodiverse haven that looks as though it has existed for centuries, despite only being under development for 30 years.
The transformation began on a one-acre block in Donvale, located 20km east of Melbourne. Originally a cleared ex-orchard, the land was initially devoid of trees, containing only turf grasses, blackberries, and various weeds. Rather than seeing a wasteland, the owners viewed the site as a blank slate for a naturalistic landscape designed by Doug, a specialist in locally native plants.
To achieve a sense of permanence, the garden utilizes naturalistic layers of vegetation. This structural approach mimics nature by organizing plants into distinct tiers: a canopy layer of eucalypts, an understory and shrub layer, and a ground layer composed of native grasses, herbs, and groundcovers. This stratification supports high biodiversity; for instance, Bill Aitchison’s focus on Acacias includes the Gold Dust Wattle (Acacia acinacea), which provides profuse spring flowering.
Water management is central to the site's ecological success. Positioned at the block's base, a massive man-made lake expands the Mullum Mullum Creek wildlife corridor, drawing in frogs, herons, and diverse aquatic life. The lake features Tea Tree (Melaleuca sp.) along the edges and species like Tall Spike Rush (Eleocharis sphacelata). However, gardeners must exercise caution with Bulrush (Typha sp.), as it can colonize quickly and form dense clumps that obstruct water flow.
The property also features a converted swimming pool that functions as a natural watercourse. To maintain the health of this pool, aquatic plants like Water Ribbons (Cycnogeton procerum) are grown underwater to act as oxygenators and food sources for frogs. This holistic approach aims to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that gives back to the local environment through increased wildlife volume.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: A native garden with a naturalistic billabong
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