Go native this Australia Day!

Clockwise from top left: banksia, lilly pilly, pink kangaroo paw. Photos: Yates

Yates Horticulturist, Angie Thomas, is sharing her top tips on how you can achieve a vibrant outdoor space by taking advantage of the spectacular range of native flora our country has to offer. Whether you have a garden, courtyard or just a small balcony, it's easier than you think.

Planting natives is also a great way to ensure our landscape remains uniquely Australian and, the best part is, Aussie plants will attract native birds, animals and insects, providing them with food and shelter.

Here is Angie's expert advice on what to plant:

“During summer, NSW Christmas bush, waratahs and kangaroo paws create a colourful feature and long lasting cut flowers. There are also native plants that can create a more tropical feel, such as the scented native frangipani, tree ferns, palms and colourful cordylines,” says Angie.

WATCH: All you need to know about the Waratah

For those living in warm temperate areas, Angie suggests macadamia trees, our native nut, or finger lime, which produces a gorgeous, intensely-flavoured fruit.

Lemon myrtle as another great option. And for those in temperate climates, Angie recommends native guava and lilly pilly.

For those with a sunny courtyard or a balcony, many Australian native plants do very well in pots. Try paper daisies, dwarf varieties of kangaroo paws, banksia, lilly pilly, geraldton wax, and boronia.

WATCH: Graham Ross discovers a beautiful array of banksias

Angie says, “regular light pruning is the key to keeping most native plants looking fresh and healthy, as it promotes new growth and flowers each season”.

Angie also recommends giving your natives a feed with fertilisers that are specifically designed for native plants, such as Acticote® for Natives or Dynamic Lifter® Organic Plant Food.

For more information about growing your own Aussie natives visit Yates.com.au.

Want more gardening tips? Visit our TV pages or check out the gardening section of our website.

PHOTOS: 20 big ideas for small gardens

Small space gardens