An eclectic, eco-friendly garden crammed with a rich assortment of plants

With a shared love of gardening and plenty of enthusiasm, Kinda and Stuart have created an eclectic, eco-friendly garden crammed with a rich assortment of plants.

The front yard has a tropical ambience, with a variety of palm trees, lush philodendrons, citrus trees, and flourishing banana plants. A bamboo wall divides the front courtyard, and a serene Buddha statue provides a peaceful backdrop for a meditation retreat.

Kinda’s extensive collection of indoor pot plants has spilled out of the house into an outdoor area where she propagates many different foliage plants, orchids, ferns, and succulents. As well as in pots, they grow in the ground and in hanging baskets, creating lush green layers peppered with splashes of colourful foliage and flowers.

The ponds and the rocky watercourse that trickles through the back garden are Stuart’s vision, and, as well as being an attractive highlight, they also provide habitat for fish, frogs and insects.

Bamboo, palms and large-leaved plants create a sub-tropical feel, and there are plenty of flowering species to attract butterflies and pollinating insects. Several bright red structures, including a small bridge over the stream, a Japanese-style Torii gate, and a Bali-style hut and seat, add a colourful, exotic flavour.

Raised beds are planted with vegetables, and there are several fruit trees, including some unusual varieties. The lower section of the sloping block has been terraced, and on the tiers are more productive plants, compost bins and a greenhouse.

A long verandah overlooks the garden and provides a glimpse of the nearby sea - a lovely spot to enjoy a cuppa and Kinda’s home-cooked Syrian delicacies.

NOTE: THERE ARE LOTS OF STEPS IN THIS GARDEN, SO TAKE EXTRA CARE