Tall Eucalpyts create islands of shade.
Address: 53 Lawson Drive, Mudgee, NSW 2850
Author: Jane Ivers
John and Wendy Reeves’ garden began in a paddock four years ago and has been created with the intention of following the natural lie of the land. A drive planted with liquidambar trees on one side and an intriguing patchwork hedge on the other brings visitors to the front of the house.
A lawn bordered by double rows of hedges formed from escallonia and bamboo on one side and Leightons green cypress and photinia on the other at the side of the house is the introduction into the large open garden area. Here there is a wide expanse of grass divided almost in two by a creek boasting banks clothed with yellow perennial gazanias.
The Reeves have kept most of the original eucalyptus trees which provide shade and shelter to the garden from the harsh Mudgee weather. John and Wendy have created plots around many of the trees with the idea of generating an understory. In each plot a eucalypt stands sentinel over collections of annuals and natives chosen for their hardiness.
A cottage garden area of armeria, lavender, salvia and poppies edged with pink bergenia provides Spring colour.
A nascent orchard contains a large collection of fruit trees. Mulberry, apple, pear, peach, nectarine, almond and plum trees are growing here, and along with a separate area of olive, hazelnut and pistachio trees will provide a cornucopia of fruit for many years to come. There are also productive vegetable gardens.
Many of the trees have seats installed under them so make sure you take some time to sit and enjoy the Spring sunshine glancing through those wonderful eucalypts.