Low-Maintenance Native Garden in Eltham

Create a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance native garden with local supplies from ID Garden & Landscape Centre in Eltham. Soils, mulch & rocks that work with nature.

 

 

🌾 How to Build a Low-Maintenance Native Garden in Eltham

Eltham’s leafy surrounds and bushland character make it the perfect place to design a native garden that looks beautiful year-round — without constant watering, mowing or fuss.

At ID Garden & Landscape Centre, we’ve spent over 15 years in the landscaping trade helping locals create gardens that work with the natural environment, not against it. Here's how to build a native garden that’s both low-maintenance and high-impact.

 

Step 1: Start with the Right Soil

Most native plants prefer free-draining soil that doesn’t hold excess moisture. If you're planting into clay or compacted ground, we recommend improving the base with:

  • Garden Blend Soil – a versatile, balanced mix with compost and loam
  • Diggers Compost – for boosting microbial life and improving structure
  • Lightly mixing compost into the planting zone creates better root penetration and long-term resilience.

 

 

🌱 Step 2: Choose Native Plants That Thrive Locally

Opt for drought-tolerant natives suited to Eltham’s climate and soil. Some proven performers include:

·      Correa reflexa for a winter flowering and low-maintenance shrub

·      Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos spp.) for bursts of vibrant colour

·      Lomandra spp. and Dianella spp. for their strappy foliage and hardiness

·      Grevilleas for visual interest and to get the bees buzzing!

Group plants with similar water needs and allow plenty of space for shrubs — natives don’t like being crowded.

 

🍂 Step 3: Mulch for Moisture and Weed Control

Mulching is essential for a native garden — it suppresses weeds, retains moisture and mimics the natural forest floor.

Top choices for native landscapes:

·      Eucy Mulch Chunky – Long-lasting and great for informal, natural-style beds

·      Reground Bush Mulch – An earthy, lightweight option ideal for moisture retention

·      Eucy Mulch Fine – Use in more refined native garden designs

Apply 5–7.5cm deep and avoid piling it against plant stems.

 

Step 4: Add Natural Rock for Structure & Habitat

Rocks aren’t just decorative — they provide passive shade, habitat for insects and lizards, and help anchor a design visually.

We love using:

·      Field Granite – Irregular, earthy tones that blend perfectly into native settings

·      Basalt or Mudstone – Strong contrast against grey-green foliage

Rock groupings also work well as informal edging, seats or dry creek beds.

💡 Pro Tip:
Use Field Granite Sawn Stone to create native-inspired garden steps or features — it adds structure without overpowering the soft forms of native plants.

 

🌿 Built for Eltham. Built to Last.

Native gardens aren’t just beautiful — they’re smart, sustainable, and resilient. With the right soil, mulch and natural materials, you’ll enjoy a garden that thrives with less effort and more harmony.

Come see us at ID Garden & Landscape Centre in Eltham — we’re here to help with practical advice, bulk materials, and a passion for low-maintenance landscaping that works with nature.