There is something about the taste of freshly home-grown food as the intense flavours are so different to store bought produce.  This is one of the reasons why back yard or balcony veggie plots have been a beneficial past time throughout the ages.

There are a few things to consider when planning and constructing your own plot. Before building and planting, consider the sunny aspect, mark out your beds, build the raised garden beds and fill with the best ingredients.   Get this part right and it will make growing and harvesting so much easier.

Consider the location

Locate your vegetable garden where it will receive full sun.  Herb gardens can be located closer the house for regular harvesting.  Look for an area where the grass grows lush and green which indicates a good location for a vegetable garden.

Preparation

Mark out the positions of the beds with a spray marker or string line.  This will ensure your vegetable garden is the correct shape when constructed.

The ideal width for a raised garden bed is 1.2 metres wide and 2.4 metres long. A width of 1.2 metres will allow you to reach into the middle of the bed for planting and weeding.  The typical length of a treated pine sleeper is 2.4 metres which makes and ideal length or connect two sleepers for a longer 4.8m length.

If you are planning more than one garden bed, position them side by side allowing between 0.9 and 1 metre in between for a pathway to walk through.

Next, remove grass with a shovel or turf cutter and use a sharp spade to achieve straight edges.

For a no dig garden, layers of cardboard can be placed over the grass secured by sleepers.

Water in the cardboard well to improve drainage.

Construct Raised beds

MicroPro Sienna or ACQ treated pine is best for garden edges as it does not contain arsenic. For other types of treated sleepers, line inside with plastic or poly to create a barrier to the soil.  Join the edges with galvanized screws.

Treated pine sleepers are approximately 2.4 metres in length and 20cm in width.

Condition the soil

Compost, manures, gypsum, dynamic lifter and other organic matter can be mixed into the soil improving its condition, structure and nutrient levels. Here you can see their price list when you need help in house cleaning.

The added organic mixture increases water holding capacity and feeds the plants via the root system.

Planting

Always plant Seasonal vegetables.  In Victoria, plant march to May for cool season veggies and August to October for a warm season crop.

Mulch

After planting, add a thick layer of mulch such as sugar cane, lucerne hay or pea straw to retain moisture levels and regulate soil temperature.  These types of mulches will break down quickly to feed soil and improve soil structure.

Your plants will thrive in healthy soil, rich in organic matter and moisture.  With only a small amount of regular care, you can enjoy a beneficial and healthy bounty of home-grown food.

Coloured or dyed garden mulch

Dyed garden mulch has become very popular over the years.  Occasionally we receive enquiries asking how to care and maintain the colours

There are a few things to know and prepare for when receiving a delivery of freshly dyed mulch.

Lay tarp

The first thing we recommend before expecting your first delivery is to lay down some tarp or plastic on your driveway to tip the load on.

This will help prevent any excess colour staining the driveway and avoid unnecessary clean ups.

Wear gloves

Before handling the fresh mulch, make sure you put on a pair of gloves to ensure your hands are free from any staining.

Refrain from watering

As the mulch dries over time, the vegetable dye sets and is no longer affected by rain.  For best results, avoid watering the fresh mulch for 24 hours to allow the colour to set.

Rake dyed garden mulch

If you have found the mulch has been affected by the Spring Wash, simply turn the pile or rake the garden bed to freshen up the vibrant colour.

Your choice of either Sunset red or black mulch is very much a personal decision as to what look you would like to achieve in your garden. What ever your choice, your garden plants will surely reap the benefits.

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Having a kid-friendly place space in your garden will encourage children to be active and spend time outdoors in the fresh air. Safety is essential. The area you choose for your play space should be on a flat level surface with equipment that can withstand the Australian climate and not get too hot in Summer.

But what surface is best for your kid-friendly place space? Ideally, you’d want something safe, low maintenance and affordable. Let’s take a look at a few different options.

Fake lawn

Fake lawn can get a bad rap at times and to be completely honest, artificial lawn is probably not suitable for all areas. It is relatively low maintenance but it Australia’s hot climate it can get scorching during Summer.

In a shady area, fake lawn is a great alternative, especially if your kids are prone to hay fever or allergies from traditional lawn. Plus it provides a great flat surface that may not be achieved with a conventional lawn.

Pavers

Pavers are common in the backyard and provide a fantastic level surface for a playspace. Like fake lawn, pavers can get very hot in Summer, so it’s best to consider where you’re going to pave and opt for a shady location. Pavers are probably not the best choice under play equipment but will provide an excellent base to cubby houses and other play spaces. 

Tanbark

A playground certified tanbark is the perfect option under play equipment to help protect children from bumps and bruises. This versatile product is not the best choice for paths, so it’s probably best to use in conjunction with pavers for fake lawn.

Rubber tiles

Rubber tiles are slip-resistant, easy to maintain and available in a variety of thicknesses. They can be used in pathways as well as under play equipment but can also get hot in the Australian Summer. Some can wear quickly and won’t last as long as other surfaces.

Whatever your choice for a kid-friendly surface, the friendly team at Kennedy’s Garden Supplies can provide you with advice and information and deliver products to the local and surrounding suburbs of Cranbourne.

Themed gardens are becoming increasingly popular so let’s take a look at some of the most popular themes and how you can bring a point of interest to your garden.

Zen Garden

The main idea with a Zen garden is that everything in it must carry a meaning to you. There is no focal point in a zen garden and asymmetry, and contrast is essential.

All elements are carefully selected to harmonise with each other, and it should look natural and well maintained.

A zen garden will provide you with a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

Australian Native

There are a plethora of plants you can put in your Native Australian garden, and the good news is most are drought tolerant and very low maintenance.

Think Spotted Emu Bush mixed with Kangaroo Paw and maybe even an NSW Christmas Bush. Carefully plan out your garden with Australian natives, and you’ll have a relaxing space that is low maintenance and requires very little water to keep it looking great!

Asian Inspired

An Asian inspired oasis will require some careful planning and beware – they’re usually high maintenance. 

There are a few different styles – in a Chinese garden, the emphasis is on nature and culture to create a harmonious space. A Japanese garden is a little more controlled. All have water features. Jump on Pinterest for inspiration and styles to best suit your climate and home.

English Flower Garden

An English flower or cottage garden seamlessly blends colours, textures, forms and fragrance to create a beautiful and breathtaking garden. 

An English flower garden does not have to be meticulously planned, but it does need some maintenance to ensure some plants don’t take over the entire yard while others need to be maintained, so they don’t die out.  

Start with a formal structure and then let your imagination run wild with various cottage plants and flowers suitable for your climate. It’s probably best to start small and use features such as picket fencing, window boxes, birdbaths and feeders mixed with rustic tables and chairs to fill the empty spaces.

A water feature can transform your garden into a tranquil oasis by masking street noise and providing a quiet, contemplative space for you to relax during your free time. A water feature can be small or large and range from a quiet little corner to the main focal point of your garden. Here are some considerations when choosing a water feature.

Water

In the Australian climate, it is a must that your water feature uses recycled water. Most water features come with a solar pump which will recirculate water through the feature.

And speaking of water – before adding a water feature, think about what kind of sound you want to have in your garden. Too much water and it might not be as relaxing as you’d like.

Maintenance

Everyone is busy these days, and you don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning and maintaining a water feature. Look for a feature that requires little to no maintenance.

Location

Think about the location. Are there any trees or plants nearby that will mean the feature will require more maintenance. Sometimes it’s easier to nestle a water feature in a quiet corner than have it as the focal point of the garden and if you have small children consider a feature with no exposed water.

What kind of water feature will suit your garden?

Birdbath

A birdbath is probably the easiest water feature to put in your garden and the most versatile. They come in all shapes and sizes, are require very little maintenance, and you’ll attract plenty of wildlife to your garden.

Pond

A pond will require a little more planning than a birdbath but not too much more maintenance. Like a birdbath, ponds come in varying shapes, sizes and depths. Check with your local council for any fencing requirements.

There is a vast range of solar pond pumps available to keep your pond thriving, and you can introduce various plants such as Water Lillies or Australian Native Violets.

Fountain

A recirculating fountain can be a straightforward water feature to create. The most popular would have to be a bubbling vase. A recirculating fountain is often the most economical.

Pondless water feature

A pondless water feature is excellent for homeowners who enjoy the sound of running water without the maintenance of a pond, see their price list. It’s also great for those with kids as there is no exposed water.

Adding a water feature to your backyard doesn’t have to be an expensive or over the top exercise. As always, the friendly team at Kennedy’s Garden Supplies can help you select the best equipment and plants for your new water feature.

Is there anything better than looking out over a perfectly manicured and lush green lawn? For many Australians, their lawn is the pride of their garden; for others, it’s the bane of their
existence requiring constant watering and maintenance. Do you think it might be time to give up on the perfect lawn and look at alternatives? Why not consider these.

Plants and Shrubs

In an area where there is some foot traffic, a creeping ground cover will be perfect for the Australian climate. Some will tolerate a little walking on it; other’s won’t. Most require very little
maintenance. Look at a hardy option such as kidney weed or woolly thyme, and these won’t mind being walked on. Dichondra is a lovely native but not as hardy and will only be suitable if it’s not going to be walked on all the time. For a little colour consider Blue Star Creeper or the beautiful Australian Violet. Both are incredibly hardy, ideal for slopes and did you know the flowers on the AustralianViolet are edible.

Rocks or Gravel

If you want to change the look of your landscaping all together, you can have a mix of rocks, gravel and plants. Soft gravel is excellent for a pathway and looks great mixed with a ground cover such as kangaroo grass. Succulents look great when mixed with rocks or gravel. Always select plants that don’t require much watering and when considering gravel always select gravel fine enough that it doesn’t get stuck in your shoes. This way the gravel stays on the pathway and not throughout your garden and home. Read how to get best value for money. Rock features can also be used in areas where there is little to no foot traffic.

Other alternatives

The first lawn alternative that jumps to mind for most people is artificial turf. Artificial turf comes in varying forms and quality. There is some maintenance required, and you’ll have to sweep the
turf to keep it free from leaves and other debris. It can get hot in the Australian sun, so it’s a good idea to consider if it’s suitable for your home and lifestyle. You can also consider pavers and bricks. Like artificial turf, pavers and bricks are a great alternative but can get hot! You’ll need a blower vac or broom to keep debris to a minimum but other than that there is little to no maintenance.

So, as you can see, there are many different alternatives to a perfectly manicured lawn that look just as great but gives you time to enjoy your garden rather than continuously work in it!

Call in to see the friendly team at Kennedy’s Garden Supplies in Cranbourne for further advice and information.

Keeping weeds at bay in your garden can be a time-consuming task. Weeds can quickly take over your garden beds if they are not treated and removed. And even when you do remove weeds, you might find more in their place the next day.

Many years ago, gardeners and homeowners wouldn’t think twice about spraying copious amounts of chemicals on their garden beds to keep them weed-free. But, did you know that there are actually many quick and effective chemical-free alternatives?

Boiling water

By far, the easiest and quickest way to kill weeds! Cold and warm water will not harm plants or weeds – boiling water kills them fast. And it kills not only the weed but also any seeds that lay dormant in the soil. The heat destroys the plant and root tissue, causing instant shock.

Just keep in mind that boiling water will kill ANY plant, so be sure to keep it away from plants you want to keep.

Vinegar and Salt

Vinegar and salt is another great alternative, but like boiling water, this solution will kill other plants as well. For best results, fill a bucket with vinegar and add a cup of salt. Stir. Adding around a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid will help to solution stick to the weeds. Fill up a spray bottle and spray over the weeds. 

Vinegar won’t kill the seeds in the soil so you might find that new weeds could pop up fairly quickly and be careful not to get too much salt on the soil as this can stop anything growing in that spot.

Pull them out

Probably the most time consuming and tedious way to remove weeds without using chemicals is pulling them out by hand. But it is effective!

To make the job easier, pull weeds when the soil is wet. For weeds with shallow roots hold the plant by its stem and pull gently. For those with deeper roots you can use a small hoe to dig in the soil around the stem to loosen the soil, then get a firm grasp of the stem and pull. 

Keeping weeds at bay

Once you’ve removed the weeds, there are a few different alternatives to keep weeds at bay and have your garden looking weed-free for many months to come.

• Mulch

Mulch is an excellent way of keeping pesky weeds at bay. Remove all existing weeds and spread a thick layer of mulch over the garden bed. Mulch will also help prevent any weed seeds beneath the surface germinating and reduce the weeds that pop up. 

• Weed mats

Similar to mulch, a weed mat will prevent weeds from sprouting.

• Plant other plants

Crowd the garden bed with other plants leaving no room for weeds to grow.

The friendly and knowledgeable team at Kennedy’s Garden Supplies are always on hand to advise on the best plants to plant, and we also stock a range of spray bottles to help you keep your garden beds under control.

Weeds can be the bain of a gardeners existence, but what products are out there that can help you really kill them off for good? Here are some of the best ways to deal with those pesky weeds that might continue to flourish in your garden. 

Scold Them

It sounds funny, but pouring boiling water on weeds can start the process. Bigger weeds might need a few more goes, but if you get the boiling water down to their roots, you’ll start to see the weeds die off. This is a very low cost and easy way to start the process of ridding your garden of weeds.

Spread that Mulch

You can stop weeds in their tracks by spreading mulch to starve them of sun and nutrients. This means your plants stay in the sun, without being hindered by the weeds next to them. Spread your mulch about 3-4 inches in thickness as this helps keep weed roots from sprouting again. 

Vinegar

It’s an old favourite amongst the gardening community and it works if you apply it frequently. It will burn the tops of the weeds but will need to be reapplied often to get to the roots and finish them off. It contains acetic acid which is the ingredient needed to kill the weed off. Be careful, however, don’t let the vinegar seep near any other plants, as it will kill them off too. 

Bleach

This is the perfect solution for the weeds that grow in between the cracks in your driveway or pathways in the backyard. After a few days, you can go back and simply pull them out. The weeds will not return either, as the bleach will have ruined the soil below not allowing them to regrow. 

So there you have it, a few simple ways you can kill off the weeds that seem to grow back in droves, for good. We have plenty of products here at Kennedy’s to solve any of your garden supply problems, so don’t hesitate to contact us about any issues you might be facing. 

You might not be ready to sell your home right now, but when the time comes to sell, don’t you want your property to be the best it can be? Now is the time to start adding value to your home through simple and effective ways. Here at Kennedy’s Cranbourne, we’ll be able to help you add thousands to your home thanks to a backyard reno. 

Lawn

The first place to start is the lawn. You want it looking lush, green and inviting. When that’s the case, your buyers will immediately be drawn to your home. If you need to dig up your backyard and reseed it, then that could be the best way to go. Otherwise, if it just needs some extra care, we have products available to kick your lawn into action. 

Cut

Don’t be afraid to cut down larger branches that might be blocking the sun from entering your backyard. Other shrubs and trees should be kept well, showing that the property is well looked after. Generally cleaning up the backyard will also go a long way when it comes to the first impression, so removing any old toys or building materials you didn’t use from that cubby house is a must!

Add Brightness 

Liven up the garden by adding some colourful flair to it. Every person loves looking out the window and seeing a bright flourishing garden, so give that to them before they get there. Roses and other flowering trees are perfect additions to any garden and are relatively easy to maintain going forward as well. 

There are just a few ways you can improve your backyard quickly and add dollars to your property fast. If you’re looking for some more ideas, don’t hesitate to drop in and see us at Kennedy’s so we can help! 

It’s the age-old question, should you choose natural turf or synthetic turf for your garden? There are a multitude of options to help you decide, so let’s take a look at which might suit your situation best. 

Maintenance

If you’re looking to lower the maintenance you need to do around your home, synthetic turf might be the way to go. Once you’ve installed it properly, you won’t need to do much maintaining. Synthetic turf can be extremely durable across the seasons, with many lasting up to 15 years. You do need to brush and groom it every now and then, however. The largest positive is that it doesn’t show blemishes, staying nice and green for years on end. 

Looks

When it comes to lawns looks, you can’t beat a natural one. With it’s lush green texture it can bring your garden to life. If you have young children a natural lawn might suit you better, as it’s softer and stays cool in the sun which is better to play on. Synthetic, however, stays green all year round and isn’t affected by the seasons or weather. 

Cost

Synthetic lawn does cost more initially, however with little maintenance you’ll quickly reap the benefits. It can be anywhere from $75-$100 per square metre to install. Natural lawn, however, will drop significantly in the installation process, with grass seed very affordable. However, the ongoing maintenance might mean you’re dipping into your pockets to keep it fertilized and growing strong. 

Overall, it really depends on the situation you’re in. If it’s a small backyard that you want to set and forget, synthetic lawn could be the way to go. If you’re wanting to have a lush soft lawn and enjoy gardening, then a natural lawn is the one for you. Don’t forget to drop into Kennedy’s Garden Supplies for all your backyard lawn advice.  

So you’ve decided you’re ready to hire a landscaper. You might be looking for a complete overhaul of your garden or general maintenance. When is the best time of year to hire a landscaper? Picking the right time will ensure you get the maximum benefit from your trade.

Winter

Winter is the best time of year to hire a landscaper. Many people put off work until Spring or Autumn, so the number one benefit of putting a landscaper to work on your property in winter is their availability will be high.

There is surprisingly a lot of work that still needs to be done in a garden during winter. As well as landscaping, a landscaper can trim back trees and shrubs, remove dead plants, check your watering system and plant bulbs that will sprout in Spring.

Winter weeds can be kept at bay by a landscaper.

In many other countries, lawn maintenance is not required during the winter months, but here in Australia, your lawn must be maintained in the colder seasons. During winter, your lawn will need to be aerated and fertilized. The friendly team from Kennedy’s Garden Supplies can help your landscaper with all the necessary materials.

Spring

During spring, you may find it challenging to hire a landscaper. Spring is the time of year most homeowners decide to landscape or tidy up their gardens. Another benefit of hiring a landscaper in winter is that you’re already a loyal customer by the time the warmer months arrive. If you are going to hire a landscaper during spring, try and do so early in the season.

Summer

Like spring, summer is also a busy time for landscapers. People want their gardens tidied before Christmas so availability may be limited. Australian lawns will need to be mowed more frequently during summer, and this is the time of year many homeowners discover problems with their watering systems.

Autumn

As the weather cools homeowners often contact their landscaper for a quick tidy up before winter. Autumn is also the time of year where trees and shrubs need to be trimmed, and lawns need to be prepared for winter. A landscaper will often be very busy in early autumn but may have more availability later in the season.

In our opinion, the colder months of late autumn, winter and early spring are when you will receive the maximum benefit out of your landscaper. It is during this time that they are less busy and will have more time to spend nurturing your garden.

There is more to landscaping than just planting a few trees around your garden. Surprisingly there is a lot of planning involved, and you want someone with extensive knowledge of the right plants for your environment and lifestyle.

So, do you choose someone local or go for one of the larger franchises?

We’ve put together some tips to help you find the right landscaper for your garden.

Research

You probably already have the end vision of what your garden will look like in mind. Finding the best person to carry out the work is not always as easy. A franchise might seem like a good idea because they’re much more prominent and may have been in business longer. But do they know your local area? A local landscaper will be familiar with the climate and the types of plants that thrive in your neighbourhood.

Look for experience and knowledge

Your landscaper should have plenty of experience. A local landscaper will know where to get the best deals for materials. Here at Kennedy’s Garden Supplies, we regularly deal with many local landscapers and trades. We provide top quality materials and plants which will thrive in your garden.

Ask for a design

Landscapers are specialists in their field who have the creative and technical knowledge to create stunning gardens. Many landscapers use CAD software to design your garden. Always ask your landscaper for a design of the work they’re going to including materials and plants.

Ask plenty of questions

Always ask plenty of questions before engaging with your landscaper. Find out how long the job is going to take to complete, where they’re getting their materials from, what plants they’re using and why they’ve chosen them.

What maintenance plans are available

Your beautiful garden is complete. Who keeps it looking in top shape? Are you going to maintain the garden yourself or does your landscaper offer gardening services to come back to keep everything thriving? Find this out in advance and if this is not a service offered by your landscaper ask for a referral to a gardener they trust.

The bottom line when choosing a landscaper is to go for someone with local experience and knowledge. The team at Kennedy’s Gardens Supplies are more than happy to help trades and their clients with advice and orders. We pride ourselves on having knowledgeable, friendly staff and stock a wide variety of products and materials, making us the perfect supplier for your landscaping business. Drop-in or call us to see how we can help you.

If you look outside right now, you’ll probably see a bird fly past in the blink of an eye, but have you ever thought about where they might reside in your garden? Birds are fantastic for the natural progression of your backyard, so here are a few ways you can keep them interested and coming back to your property.

Birds are fantastic. Attracting them to come and live in the surrounds of your garden should be something you think about. They provide free pest control, often eating many of the pests you want to rid, as well as giving your garden a nice natural feel with the sounds of their chirping in the air.

The best way to keep birds is to provide for them. Installing your own bird feeder is a great way to start. Giving birds the option to eat seed straight from a feeder will keep them coming back for more. A few bird boxes would also mean some call your backyard home, only growing the population and keeping your garden tidy of snails, slugs and other pests.

As birds move from tree to tree, they actually act as pollinators. This is a vital part if you have fruit trees or are trying to grow other seeds. They will also clean up all the fallen fruit from trees that you might have around your garden, saving you the hassle of discarding rotten fruit for weeks on end.

Overall birds provide a great ambience as well. Your garden will come to life and sitting outside and enjoying the sounds that the birds bring will be relaxing for you and your family. Not only do they help your garden, but you’re helping their population, creating a safe bird sanctuary-like environment.

Talk to us about how you can construct your own bird feeders to give your littlest residents some extra incentive to stick around in your garden.

Ever dreamed of having one of those picturesque backyards you see on Pinterest? Well, they might not be as far away as you think. With a few little additions, you can make your backyard stand out among the crowd. Here’s how.

Alfresco

An alfresco is a low cost, but high reward addition to any backyard. This gives you a space to enjoy those warm summer nights with friends. Not only can you utilise the alfresco you can go the extra mile if you like. Installing an outdoor kitchen. Luxurious and practical, an outdoor kitchen will elevate your backyard to the ultimate entertainer in no time.

Fire it Up

It doesn’t take much to install your own fireplace. These can open up your backyard to hosting guests 365 days of the year. A relatively inexpensive addition, who doesn’t love sitting around a fire with some friends? It’s the best way to set the ambiance of your night and a perfect spot for great conversation. A fireplace is one of the easiest and best ways to upscale your backyard.

Tables

Not just any old table though. Instead of having just a plan wooden table to sit at in the backyard, why not innovate? Build a drink cooler into the middle of your table that can accommodate cool drinks for your guests. It’s a simple change but will be something that gives your backyard that wow factor.

Pizza Pizza

There’s nothing better than a home cooked meal. Why not a home cooked meal in the backyard? Installing a pizza oven gives your guests a great dinner experience. Not only will this be a great entertaining asset, but it will quickly become a part of your weeknight dinner plans among your family.

These are just a few ways you can give your backyard a spruce up. What do you think you might want to add to yours? We have plenty of materials and items at Kennedy’s Garden Supplies to help your backyard be the best it can be.

More sentertaining ideas

When it comes to paving, it’s not just about what kind of paver you choose but also what you decide to stabilize your path or patio with. If you don’t secure them properly, you’ll risk them cracking or shifting as the weather changes. There are a range of different ways to lay a paver, but there’s only one way to do it correctly.

Underlay

A perfect solution for a paving project at home. Bluestone dust is our recommended product when it comes to paving. It allows you to create a smooth and stable underlay for your project and can stand the test of time and weather. This helps avoid cracking and movement as the dust compacts together well.

Packing

This could be the most important part of your home project. If you don’t pack your sand properly, you’ll see your paving project start crashing down. You need to hammer down your sand to make sure it fills every crevice that might be underneath it. If you have a large area, hiring a packing machine from your local garden supplier will enable you to finish it off faster.

Laying

Take advantage of string lines and your perfectly packed sand. This will enable you to get into a routine when laying your pavers. Lay the corner and cut off pavers last, making sure you have the biggest area covered first. Once they are in place you can measure and cut to size the remaining tiles to fill the gaps.

More Sand

This time, the sand is important to fill the gaps between your laid pavers. This will stop those pesky weeds starting to show up while strengthening your paved area even more. There are a multitude of sands you can use, but we recommend you use a paver bond sand solution. Pairing this with water will solidify your pavers through the harshest summers and the wettest winters.

Here are just a few tips when it comes to laying your pavers. If you’re still looking for some more advice, don’t hesitate to drop into Kennedy’s Cranbourne, or give us a call so we can help your DIY project become a rousing success.

The landscaping industry is booming and very competitive. You need the right team on your side so that your landscaping business stands out. Your business will require a supplier. A good, reliable and knowledgeable supplier will be the difference between getting the right materials today or waiting weeks for it to arrive and then realising it’s the wrong product.

How do you choose the right supplier? Who do you go to for materials, products and advice? We’ve put together a few points to help you select the right supplier for your landscaping business.

Someone with experience

As a landscaping business in Melbourne, you want to make sure your supplier is going to be available to fill your orders promptly. Always choose someone who has a large client base and has been in business for some time. Kennedy’s Cranbourne, for example, has over 5 acres of landscaping products available to the local community and tradies, they have over 35 years experience and are the perfect example of a long-standing landscaping and garden supply business.

Someone with knowledge

Your supplier needs to be knowledgeable. You will rely on them for advice – a lot! Make sure you choose someone who has a good reputation in the community, someone with experience and someone who has been in business for a while.

Products for Every Project

The last thing you want to be doing is driving all over Melbourne and surrounding suburbs picking up different products. Select a supplier who has an extensive range of products and materials.

Look for a supplier, such as Kennedy’s Garden Supplies whose range covers sand, soil and driveway toppings right through to garden and building products.

Do you deliver?

Choose a supplier who is happy for you to come in and pick up your materials and one who also delivers. Select someone who also offers same-day delivery so that you are not wasting time waiting for materials to be delivered. Free delivery will also be a massive benefit to your bottom line!

The team at Kennedy’s Gardens Supplies are more than happy to help trades with advice and orders. We pride ourselves on having knowledgeable, friendly staff and stock a wide variety of products and materials, making us the perfect supplier for your landscaping business. Drop-in or call us to see how we can help you.

Water is one of the most important parts of a garden, but sometimes you might get caught up at work, or be heading away. If you fit this profile, a drip irrigation system might be for you. So here’s how you can install and utilize it.

Plan and Ask

Firstly, you need to plan out exactly where you want your system to flow. For example, some plants may require more water than others, so different valves, drippers and bubblers could be used on the same hose to facilitate the water usage. Once you’ve got your plan in place, head into your local garden supply center like Kennedy’s to gain some expert advice on the system you plan to install.

Nozzles

We touched on it above, but you need to research and have the right nozzles in place so your garden can flourish. If you place a high flow nozzle above a plant that doesn’t need much water, you’ll flood it. Speaking to your garden supply store here is key to having successful nozzle system in place.

Shut On and Off

Don’t forget to you need to install a shut off device. If you don’t, you may forget to turn the tap off and leave the water on for hours on end. These can be handy items to make your system fully automated. You can set timers to make sure the water is going later in the day when the sun isn’t as harsh on the soil.

Join Together

It will be more efficient for you if you’re able to join up your system. Have the system running off one timer and one tap. This means you’ll know exactly when and where your irrigation is on. This cuts down on maintenance and will enable you to keep an eye on any issues that could arise, without having to chase the problem through many pipes and systems in the garden.  

We talk a lot about how to care for your garden outside, but what about the plants you have to help decorate your home on the inside? There are a few factors that you should talk to your garden supplier about, so let’s take a look.

Get the balance right.  

Even if your plants are in a cool dry spot, they need water. Your plants roots will start to become damaged if they are sitting in dry soil. It’s tough to determine how much and it depends on where the plant is, but you need to watch over watering too. If your plant is sitting in water, it can actually kill your plant. It’s best to check the soil every second day by pushing your finger in down to the second knuckle. If the soil is still moist, your plant is watered enough.

Sunlight

Placing your plant in adequate sunlight will enable your plant to grow to its full potential, but placing it directly in the sun will hurt it. Find a well lit room and give your plant 12-14  hours of sunlight a day. If you are seeing your plant starting to struggle, move it to another room and see how it responds, but try and give it a chance to adapt to the area it’s in first.

10-10-10

House plants love fertilizer. Except it must be balanced. The first 10 stands for nitrogen, the next for phosphorus and the last for potassium. Pairing this fertilizer with potting soil will give your plant the best chance at absorbing the micro-nutrients they need to grow into strong established ones.

Pests

It’s important to keep your plants free from pests that could eat away at their roots or leaves. That half a cup of coffee or tea left by the plant, don’t tip it in! The sugars will attract flies to breed in the soil and eat away at your plants. If your plant has low acidic tolerance, this will actually kill your plant. Watch out for any other little critters that might be piggybacking on the leafs and get rid of them as soon as possible.

Now that summer is in full swing, you want to be able to enjoy the sunshine as much as possible. Your backyard might be fantastic, but you might be looking for a bigger space to enjoy. Here’s what you need to know when you decide to build a desk.

Planning

It’s probably the toughest part of the job. Do you want a natural looking deck, or are you fine with a synthetic deck? Is it going to be connected to the house or will it be on it’s own in the backyard? Think about your budget and also do your research. What wood can sustain your usage, as well as where you think the deck will suit and compliment your backyard.

Size

It’s important to scope out how big your deck should be. Depending on how big your backyard is might determine the size. Following the lines and proportions of your home will help you design your deck to make sure it fits in with the flow of your existing home and backyard.

Materials

When planning out your deck, you need to make sure you’re using the right materials. Talking to your local garden supplier about the type of weather your deck will see, the amount of people using it and how often it will be affected by weather. If your deck will be in the weather, it must be able to withstand the elements. If it’s undercover, you might be able to broaden your options.

Cleaning

Remember, you have to clean it. Nobody likes doing it, but it will prevent your deck from degrading quicker. A lick of varnish and a good clean at least each year, if not twice a year will help your deck stay vibrant throughout it’s lifetime. Prevention is better than a cure, so keeping your deck maintained will save you money later down the track.

With so many ways to compost in the gardening world, how do you know which one will suit you the best? Let’s take a look at a few composts and how to best use them in your garden, as well as what items you should steer clear of when putting together your compost pile.

Hot Compost

This is for the more serious gardener. If you want to create a longer term compost with a bit more effort, you need to start with a hot compost. This involves nitrogen, carbon, air and water which cooks the compost faster and breaks it down to microorganisms to feed your plants with nutrients.

Cold Compost

This compost consists of your everyday items you can find in the kitchen and garden. Egg shells, food scraps, grass clippings, newspaper and straw will break down together to give you a great little added extra boost to your gardens nutrients. Continue to water the compost to help it break down quicker.

Stir

It’s important that your compost gets as much oxygen as possible. Give it a turn every week or so, depending on the temperature. If it’s warmer, it will help it cook quicker, so turning it twice a week will help to enhance it’s microorganism count. This will also help it from developing a bad odour, if you smell this, it means the pile has been settled for too long.

What NOT to Compost

You might feel as if you can throw any sort of scrap on the compost pile, but some items will actually deter the critters you want in the garden. Items containing any oils, animal faeces, sawdust or meat. These will attract insects to your garden that will only damage them, so steer clear of these when composting at home.

When building up your garden, you want to be able to separate some areas from others. A retaining wall is the perfect solution for this. There are some important things you need to remember when building a wall that will outlast even the worst weather conditions.

Trench

It’s important that your wall has a solid base to build on. If the ground underneath is soft and unstable, the wall won’t be able to do its job. A trench will stop your wall from cracking or moving when it comes up against rain or wind. This should be the first step you take in the creation of your masterpiece.

Sleepers

A timber sleeper is a perfect material for a retaining wall in your garden. Inexpensive and relatively easy to put together. You’ll find these in our yard and they are readily available to use. Place vertical supports along where you want your wall to run and the sleepers can easily fit in snug and tight. You can then choose to paint or stain your wall for added effect.

Backfill

It’s important that you backfill behind the wall so the soil underneath stays compact and tight. Your wall will probably be load bearing, so you want to keep the soil behind as solid as possible. Make sure you fill with aggregate that is able to drain water as well, as it will pass through to your piping behind the wall to easily get rid of that excess water.

Drainage

Yes, you will still need to think about where that water will go. If you change the way it flows with your wall, it means it’s imperative you look at where you need to add some pipes to help it disappear. If you leave the water to run wherever, you risk it getting in behind the wall and softening the soil. This can lead to damage that has to be replaced.

Summer is here and it’s the time that your plants are most susceptible to the radiant heat that Australia brings. There are a few ways however you can keep your garden flourishing through the warmer months.

1. Watering

An inch a week is the norm when it starts to warm up. You need to make sure that the soil under the ground remains moist as that’s the key area. If that starts to dry up, your plants will start to wilt quickly. Don’t be afraid to water a little more than you would during the cooler months as you’ll see more evaporation during the hot summer.

2. Weeding

You need to keep on top of the weeds in your garden throughout the warm months. Your plants are fighting for all the nutrients they can get already and battling against weeds will only hinder them. Take the time to weed most weeks as this will give your plants the best chance at surviving. Topping the garden up with mulch as well will stop the weeds from making a comeback.

3. Use Water saving products

Wettasoil crystals form a water holding gel which provides a healthy reserve of water near the plant roots, keeping the soil and plant roots moist through hot and dry weather.

Water Crystals hold water in the root zone and can be used in pots, gardens and turf.  They hold water up to 100x its own weight and is non toxic. See more here https://kennedys.net.au/?s=Wetta

4. Inside Plants

You can’t forget about your inside plants as well! If they’re in direct sunlight next to a window, they may suffer from leaf burns. Make sure they’re adequately watered and kept in the cool. The sunlight can be more damaging through windows than outside. If you’re heading away also, maybe put them in the bath with a small amount of water, this will keep them nourished until you return.

5. When to Pick

If you have a veggie garden, it’s important to pick the produce early in the morning. Don’t let the harsh sun beat down on the veggies and hurt their quality. If you can, take them inside early. Don’t be afraid to use some fertilisers as well to keep them strong and healthy throughout the warmer months.

Following these few tips will help you keep your garden flourishing in dry summer months.

Find more tips can be found herehttps://www.detsi.qld.gov.au/our-department/news-media/down-to-earth/beat-the-heat-must-know-tips-for-summer-gardening-in-the-tropics

With so many options around to help fill out your garden or driveway, how do you choose what stone, gravel or pebble you should use in yours? It all depends on your situation, but there are certain places that each stone will suffice as a solution for you.

Driveways

There are many different stones or pebbles you can use to line your driveway with. It’s better to get a stronger more stable stone though, such as gravel, as it wont move and shuffle around as easily when you drive on it. It’ll lock together much better and be far more durable in the exposed weather.

Gardens

Again, there are plenty to choose from. If you’re looking for a low maintenance garden then filling it in with pebbles is the perfect fix. They’ll also work in styling your garden to match your home and tie it all in together. Choosing stones that will drain well is another area you need to think about. You don’t want water pooling because the stones don’t allow it to pass, so picking a pebble that allows water through is a must.

Waterfalls

Many gardens are starting to feature waterfalls more and picking the right stone to complement it needs some thought. We recommend a few different sizes as this will provide a nicer feel and look to the feature. This will also make it look more natural than a man made waterfall, showing the care and thought that has gone into it.

Paving

While paving doesn’t directly fall in the loose stone category, it still applies in your garden. Your pebble or stone choice will be dictated by what type of paving you go for, whether it’s granite or another type. Choosing a stone that will compliment the paving well will add style and value to your home almost straight away.

There are many ways in which you can maintain a backyard garden, but how do you maintain a natural garden without to many other items such as fake turf or heavily concreted areas? Let’s see how you can be environmentally friendly when it comes to keeping your garden full of life.

Insects

There are certain insects you want in your garden and ones you don’t. You want to try and attract insects like bees, ladybugs and butterflies. These insects give your garden a nice feel and keep the pollination of plants going. Try to get rid of mites, aphids and beetles which can slowly eat away at the growing garden. Plants such as lavender and geraniums will attract the insects you want buzzing around your backyard.

Composting

Composting is one of the best ways to naturally help your garden flourish. It can really help in enriching the soil and giving it the nutrients it needs to help your plants become strong and stable. Food scraps and other items can be used to compost your garden and give the soil that extra value.

Pesticide Free Protection

It’s important to steer clear of chemicals. There are products on the market that can do the same job, just without the risk on your pets or other insects you want to hang around in your garden. Mulch is a great way to drive those pests away from your garden, while fertilisers are also a fantastic deterrent while also giving your garden an extra boost of nutrients.

Plants

Planting a diverse amount of plants throughout your garden will help it naturally keep pests away. Lemongrass will help keep mosquitoes out of your backyard, especially if you have a water feature or pond which can attract them. Planting herbs can also help with keeping insects such as flies, slugs and snails away as they can start to eat up your precious plants.  

For those who have a large amount of space to build their ideal landscaped garden, space is something you don’t think about. However for some in the suburbs or close knit communities, space comes at a premium. Well it’s not all doom and gloom and there are ways you can turn your garden/outdoor area into something special no matter the size.

Utilising Every Area

It seems obvious that you should utilise as much space as you can, however most people actually miss quite a bit. Invest in some shelves that stack along walls that can create a hanging garden, while also keeping the space on the floor to a minimum for other items that you might want to include. Stacking is a great way to save space and also create a unique looking area.

Multi-use

With space at a premium when it comes to inner city suburb living, you can utilise the area you have in multiple ways. Your outdoor garden can be used to surround an outdoor dining area as an example. Use your space to it’s absolute maximum while also being able to use it in a diverse number of ways. Just because it’s an outdoor area, it doesn’t have to stay as one!

Furniture

Furniture might sound like a large item to put into your backyard or garden area, however it will create a great cosy spot to sit in the sun in the spring or in the evening after work. It’s a great way to divide up space and create a hideaway to use whenever you need. This can also coincide with an outdoor living room, which are all the rage at the moment.

Fireplace

A fireplace is one of the best things to add to a small backyard. It means you can utilize it all year round, even when it’s cold outside. A fireplace isn’t a large addition either, so paving around the area of it will also give your backyard more uses. Combine this with a hanging wall feature and you’re well on your way to creating a backyard masterpiece.

There’s nothing quite like picking and eating from your own vegetable garden. It can save you when it comes to shopping as well as giving you the freshest ingredients for your home cooked meals put together a pills to slow down metabolism. There are many ways to create your own veggie garden, however here are a few things you need to know when building your own.

Raised

If you decide that your vegetable garden will be raised, it’s important that you pick the right sleepers to help contain the soil and water. A simple timber pine sleeper can keep your vegetable gardens in a neat and tidy order. Raised beds also mean pests like slugs and snails have a tougher time getting to your plants.

Sunlight

It’s one of the most important parts to a veggie garden. Before building, make sure your garden will get enough sunlight throughout the day. You don’t want to finish it and realise that the big tree next door blocks most of the sun, causing your vegetables to not grow to their full potential. Map out your space and even consult your local gardening specialist to help work out the best spot.

What to Plant

Some plants grow in different climates, so you’ll need to pick plants that grow in your specific climate. Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and beetroots are great for a winter climate, where strawberries, corn and tomatoes enjoy a warmer climate. They all require different amounts of water and care, so plan for what to plant.

Good Soil

With every garden you need to have good soil, but especially when it comes to vegetables. You want them to grow as big as possible, so the best soil with the best nutrients is the way to do it. Composting will also give your soil the nutrients it needs to transfer to your plants. A tip, keep an eye on the soil temperature as well, it can affect your plants

Mulching is a very popular way to keep your gardens soil healthy, it helps stave off the wind and rain from washing topsoil away while also keeping the moisture in on the hot sunny days, but it’s sometimes hard to pick which mulch works best for you garden, let’s take a look.

Compost

Compost is the best mulch as it has plenty of nutrients that will soak into the soil and into the roots of your plants keeping them strong and healthy.“It might be a little more expensive, but it’s one of the best coverings for you garden so we recommend this be your number one choice”. It’s one of the best coverings for your garden, so we recommend this be your number one choice.

Sugar Cane Mulch

This is one of the most readily available mulches you can get and one of the cheapest too. It does however need applying more than others which is the downside of picking sugar cane mulch. It encourages soil organisms to help build up your soils nutrients however, meaning it can be a really effective way to redevelop your garden bed, you just have to make sure you keep on top of it and re apply when necessary.

Bark & Woodchips

Bark and wood chips take a long time to disintegrate so they’re perfect for those who live in rain affected or wind affected areas. They will help cover your garden keeping the soil moist and your plants protected from the elements. If a yellow tinge begins to take place within your plants after mulching, don’t panic! This just means your soil requires a little extra nitrogen. Simply find a product that you can add to your soil to increase the nitrogen levels, and your plants will slowly return to normal.

Pebbles and Stones

A bit of a different take on mulching your garden, but pebbles and stones are great when it comes to covering up your garden and preventing weeds. They also retain heat during the day, so they’re perfect at night for plants prone to any frost damage.

Straw

You might see many gardens packed up with straw, and for good measure too. It’s a fantastic addition to your garden and looks great with it’s golden colour. It’s perfect for a veggie garden, keeping the dirt off your edible crops.

Did you know that a well maintained garden can increase your property value by 20%? If you didn’t, you do now! So here’s a few ways you can give your property the best look and the best value going forward.

Cleanup

You might already have a great garden, it just needs a clean up. Make sure you prune and cut back trees that might be getting out of hand to neaten it up and give it a more elegant feel. Keep on top of weeds and plants that might suffocate others. This will enable your garden to flourish during springtime.

Selling Point

There are many different ways to make your garden stand out from others, so finding that point of difference and selling point that will make buyers really struggle to pass on your home is key. Whether it be investing in a pond, water fountain or a nice patio that can be used in the warmer months, installing or building one of these will add value to your home immediately.

Paint

You might not need to paint in your garden per say, but adding some paint to the old fence will give your garden a renewed vibe. It will create a more presentable look and enable the bright colours in your garden to look even more vibrant to the eye, exciting potential buyers.

Lawn

Whether you replace it or regrow, it has to look impeccable. Potential buyers will love seeing a nicely trimmed and lush lawn that their kids can play on. It will help give the home that extra wow factor. If you have lawn that’s patchy or needs maintenance, it’s about rolling up your sleeves and working hard because the value that it will add to your home is immense. If you need some tips about lawn maintenance, don’t hesitate to head into your garden supply store for a hand.

Tall Plants

Heading down to your local garden supply centre to talk about how to give your backyard privacy should be one of your priorities. Hiding your backyard with neighbour-be-gone trees or other tall hedging gives your potential buyer a sense of privacy that maybe others couldn’t, giving it that point of difference come selling time.

Have you decided it’s time to give your backyard an upgrade and have settled on creating a patio? Now comes the choice of pavers and surrounds, so how do you pick the right pavers to match your home and style, while also creating a patio that you and your family can enjoy all year round? Let’s take a look.

It’s important to think about what purpose your patio paving will serve. Is it to be a border around a pond if so you’ll want to look for some non-slip pavers to keep your family and other guests safe when standing on it. Consulting your local garden supplier such as Kennedy’s can help you in making the best decision style wise and safety wise when it comes to paving your patio area and its surrounds.

Patios very rarely carry much weight on them all at once, so pavers don’t need to be very thick, therefore giving you more options to choose from for your patio. When it comes to weather, you want to be able to see your patio drain quick and not let water pool on the pavers, so a proper drainage system or way to get rid of the water is a must when building your patio.

A solid base before your construction work is also necessary. This stops the patio from moving when it’s built and any erosion to not cause cracks or damage to the pavers in the long term. When laying this base, remember to think about what might grow through it, so a layer of landscaping cloth might be another thing you consider to stop those pesky weeds from showing themselves through in the future.

Once you’ve installed your patio plans into place, the extra items you want to include, need to be considered, such as a feature wall, plant wall or a fireplace. Making sure you factor these into your plans is key, as some might need extra safety features or a thicker base to hold the weight that will be on top of it, such as a feature wall.

These are some areas you need to think about before starting your patio. It’s a great DIY job, however first getting some expert knowledge will give you that added confidence to construct and maintain your patio throughout the future.

It’s one of the hardest tasks as a landscaper and gardener, how to protect your lawn from the harsh Australian summer sun. Well, there are a few ways you can protect your garden and soil from the sun, to ultimately keep your lawn looking lush and bright in even the harshest conditions.

Water Time

It’s important to know when the best time to water your lawn is to keep it nice and lush. The best time to water is early in the morning. Not only does your lawn absorb more water without the cooler sunlight in the morning enables photosynthesis without evaporation. Directing your water evenly across the lawn as well is key.

Keep on top of Weeds

Nothing kills your lawn quicker than weeds. It’s forever been the toughest thing to keep your lawn weed free, but you need to get on top of it as quick as you can, as you don’t want the weeds root systems to take away from your lawns, weakening them and causing them to suffer more in the heat than they might otherwise.

Fertilise

In the winter your lawn will need a little bit more of a feed, so fertilising is key in setting up the root system for the harsh summer. The springtime is the perfect time to set up your lawn for the summer with fertiliser, and this will help its longevity during the scalding hot days.

Mowing

You don’t want to mow your grass too low, as that will stunt its growth and cause it to die out earlier in the heat. Setting your mower on a higher level will keep it trim, but also enable the blades to absorb the sun and longer grass means longer roots that can bury themselves in the dense soil and absorb the best nutrients possible.

When it comes down to the summertime, it really just is about caring for your lawn and taking the time to water it properly and fertilise, if you stick to this routine, you’ll see the benefits of a lush bright green lawn all summer long.