Guide for going native

STARTING that native garden has been made easier for hills residents following Cardinia Shire Council’s release of a free indigenous plant booklet.
The plant booklet guides green thumbs through the recommended plants for their area and has more than 90 plants listed with glossy photos to help people select the right plant for their landscaping needs.
Shire natural resource officer Rob Jones said indigenous plants were a great alternative to the popular European plants that are sold at many nurseries.
“Indigenous plants don’t just attract native wildlife but also require much less water and maintenance,” he said.
Mr Jones said the council had worked closely with the Casey Shire to provide a comprehensive guide that was simple to use.
“Indigenous plants are not just native plants, they are local natives from the Cardinia area.
“These plants have adapted to the unique climate of Cardinia and have a better chance of survival than other plants,” he said.
The booklets will be mailed out to rural properties while township residents can pick up a booklet from the customer service counter at the Shire Offices in Pakenham.