Nature Havens program

Step 1.Register for Nature Havens

The Nature Havens program is now fully booked until April. New dates for May, June and July will be released towards the end of April. 

Step 2.Prepare for your visit

Things to consider in preparation for your garden visit:

Timing of your project

• The best planting time is during the cooler months (May-August)
• It is recommended to install all hard-landscaping (footpaths, seating, water tanks) prior to planting

Your vision

• What is your preferred aesthetic for your garden?
• Do you have height preferences for potential planting areas? Are you open to layers?
• Do you have a design in mind or have you seen something you like the look of? If so, have some images of these available at the visit.

Existing garden

• Can existing features of your current garden be incorporated into your plans?
• Have you identified where your sunny and shady areas are?
• What have you noticed about the soil? Is it moist? Heavy clay?
• Do you have space for some larger trees?
• Do you already have indigenous plants that are thriving in your garden?
• Will you need to control any weeds or prepare the site before you plant?
• Are there opportunities to replace environmental weeds with indigenous plants?
• What wildlife have you already observed visiting your garden? 

Step 3.Custom report

After the visit you will be provided with a report customised for your space which will include recommendations for making your garden a more wildlife friendly nature haven. The report will include a list of indigenous plants suitable to your garden and to the wildlife you’d like to attract.

For more ideas on making your garden more wildlife friendly see Create a nature haven.

Step 4.Share your progress

We would love to see photos of your progress and the creatures that visit your nature haven. Please email your photos nature@maroondah.vic.gov.au, and let us know if you are happy for the photos to be featured in the image gallery below.