How to cultivate a thriving garden in the heart of Australia's most extreme desert

Gardening · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Geoff Miers has spent decades mastering the art of arid gardening in central Australia, where temperatures swing from -8°C to 45°C. By selecting resilient native species and embracing water conservation, he proves that even the harshest environments can support a lush, thriving garden if you work with the climate.

Geoff Miers, a veteran of ABC talkback radio and a nursery owner, has spent over 30 years advocating for gardens that respect the environment. Central Australia presents a formidable challenge for any gardener; the region experiences extreme climatic shifts, including months without rain followed by sudden, unpredictable flooding. Winter nights can plummet below -8°C for weeks, while summer shade temperatures often soar to 45°C. Miers views this volatility not as a deterrent, but as an exciting, albeit demanding, opportunity for those willing to adapt their methods.

The secret to Miers' success lies in selecting plants evolved for survival. He favors species like the Waddywood (Acacia peuce), a rare tree capable of living for 500 years, and the red mulga (Acacia cyperophylla), prized for its striking, flaking bark. He also champions Eremophilas, which are highly versatile and thrive in everything from sand to heavy clay. These plants often feature needle-like leaves, a structural adaptation that minimizes water loss through evaporation. By propagating thousands of native species annually—including kangaroo grass and native lemongrass—Miers helps residents replace thirsty, unsuitable plants with varieties that naturally belong in the desert.

Miers' own home garden serves as a practical demonstration of his philosophy. Eighteen years ago, after his irrigation system failed, he stopped regular watering entirely. Today, he waters his garden just once, during the first or second week of January, providing five inches of water to recharge the soil. This approach is increasingly vital as climate change brings more frequent droughts and temperature extremes to the region. By creating landscapes that are inherently suited to the local climate, Miers argues that gardeners can build resilience against the unpredictable future, ensuring their green spaces endure despite the harsh conditions.

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