If you are surrounded by red bottle brush, lean into the native plants! Most are easy to care for, and minimal work still looks great.

Natives sometimes need a lot of pruning to keep them manageable, but could be a way to go. I find quick solutions here are geraniums for a splash of colour, and hardy shrubs like lavender and rosemary (that survive without water once established) for screening and general backdrop. As others have said agapanthus can have a place, and hardy succulents are also very easy to care for and will cover a bare patch ( but do have to keep an eye on once they are established because they can do too well and need thinning).

Get some tailored advice from Bunnings on plants that thrive well in your area

anything that can then be used in cooking or is edible, particularly now with the isolation going on.

Agapanthus may do and be all that, but they’re so ugly! Great idea using natives, easy to grow and not much water needed. Would love to know how you’re progressing

If you live in a bushfire prone area agapanthas are supposed to work as a fire retardant. They are a hardy plant and they multiply fairly quickly. Check your local nursery to find out if any plants that act as a fire retardant will grow in your area. I know there is a native tree / shrub that grows well in some parts of WA. They have a pod on them which bursts open and releases water when fire gets close enough and heat radiates from it.

Plantings natives would be great for the local wild life

By the sounds of it, you may be near Kuranga nursery. They have an incredible selection of native plants. Many of which they have growing around so you can see their form before you buy. You’ll be amazed at the colour and variety you can get with natives.

these are great tips. I might take them on board too! my son has a green thumb at the moment and I want to try all these ideas. thanks ladies.
he has a tonne of succulents that grow non stop.
if the house is a rental, always keep your favourites in decent size pots, so If you ever have to move, your favourites can come with you

I would go and speak to the people at the local nursery. They will have the best advice cos they will know what will work for the weather and conditions where you live

I tend to go to Bunnings or flower power for advice – natives, succulents are my choice as they can thrive on neglect, very low maintenance!

I love checking out markets and fates for good little plants and you can support others by buying from them ????

I love kangaroo paws. I have about 15 and cant wait to they grow bigger and flower. I also have a wattle.

Have a look what your neighbours have and see if there is anything you like – ask them! Succulents and ferns always look good all year round. Kangaroo Paws, Banksia, Wattle – all hardy natives.

Try to look at plants which dont need to much care or water. I love lavender

Fetes and plants sales often have well priced plants for the garden – might be worth having a look.

You need to go to your local nursery and ask what is right for your area, or even the local council may have information. If you plant a low ground cover that can survive with little water and is tough you cannot go wrong. Some ground covers can be mowed too.

Why no time have a big lush lawn? Or put in a veggie garden and some fruit trees

i love the palms and succulents. maybe a nice lemon tree as well.

Plant some veges and flowers