The most appealing thing about growing native plants is that they are the easy option. They are, after all, native. Choose species that you know thrive in your region and they will adapt to the conditions perfectly. You could source seeds or cuttings from neighbours for a quick start. Then watch your garden flourish as our feathered friends drop by for a meal of nectar and berries or even the insects, mites and lizards that make their home amongst the greenery.

Imported from the Northern Hemisphere, Arbor Day mostly goes unrecognised these days. Is it time to bring it back?