Episode: #12 18/11/06
Presenter: Melissa King

On the western rim of the Yarra Valley is the beautiful Diamond Valley an area known for its boutique wineries, artists and scenic views and nestled amongst the natural bush is a gem of a nursery, Diamond Valley Garden Centre, which should be top of the list in your day of touring.

Diamond Valley is a certified Sustainable Garden Centre ? in simple terms it means they are looking out for the environment by reducing water and chemical use, not selling weeds, and encouraging all of us to garden more sustainably.

When you live in an area of natural beauty, it makes perfect sense to try and complement the surrounding bush and enhance the local character by planting indigenous plants. You will find everything at Diamond Valley from trees and shrubs to lilies and wildflowers which are tailor made to thrive in local gardens and entice the birds and butterflies.

If you want expert advice on the right plants for the right spot you can always use Diamond Valley?s Garden Design and Consultation service.

If there is one thing this nursery is known for it is their selection of water features, with stylish design options for both modern and traditional style gardens.

For a natural look the Universal Rock range is a great option and includes everything from ponds to waterfalls, cascades and lighting. They are light weight and easy to install yourself. You can even buy self contained units that you simply fill with water plug in and off you go perfect for balconies and courtyards.

There is range of products that keep water clear but if you want a clear water guarantee then go for an Oase combination, with a filtoclear filter and Aquamax pump which are easily hidden away.

Even the best filtration system in the world won?t keep all the muck out of the bottom and the easiest way to remove sludge without draining the pond is to use a Pondovac. It even has a bag attachment to catch any muck and recycle the water back into the pond.

One native plant that Melissa wouldn?t leave without is Orthrosanthos ?Morning Star? (Orthrosanthus multiflorus ?Morning Star?). It is one of those great low maintenance performers that provides year round texture and form with pretty spring flowers.

Lavenders (Lavandula stoechas subsp. Pendunculata cv.) from the Ruffles collection are tough and beautiful plants which come in all the berry colours. They are long flowering, very showy and compact and perfect for pots on the balcony.

Now for the perfect pot; something crisp white and modern looking from Northcote pottery is ideal.

In little more than thirty minutes from the city you too can be enjoying the bushy lifestyle and tranquil atmosphere at Diamond Valley Garden Centre.

Diamond Valley Garden Centre
170 Yan Yean Road
Plenty VIC 3090
http://www.dvgardencentre.com.au/