The Soul of Your Garden
A garden’s soul lives in its plants. While hardscape provides structure, it’s the planting that brings life, colour, movement, and seasonal change. At David Claude Landscape Design, we create planting schemes that evolve and mature over time, selecting species that thrive in local conditions while achieving your aesthetic vision.
With deep knowledge of Victorian conditions developed over 30 years, we understand which plants will flourish in different microclimates across Melbourne’s diverse suburbs. From drought-tolerant natives in Eltham’s bushland fringe to sophisticated exotic schemes in Ivanhoe’s established streets, our planting designs are always site-specific.
Our Planting Philosophy
Right Plant, Right Place
The foundation of successful planting is matching species to conditions:
- Sun exposure: Full sun, part shade, or deep shade requirements
- Soil type: Clay, sand, or loam, and appropriate amendments
- Water availability: Natural rainfall patterns and irrigation potential
- Microclimate: Wind exposure, frost pockets, and heat reflection
Designed for Maturity
We design with the future in mind, understanding how plants will grow and develop:
- Appropriate spacing for mature size
- Layered compositions that remain beautiful as plants fill in
- Succession planting for seasonal interest
- Long-term canopy development
Ecological Consideration
Our planting schemes consider broader ecological values:
- Habitat provision for native birds and beneficial insects
- Water-wise selections that reduce environmental impact
- Soil health improvement through appropriate species
Native Planting Expertise
Melbourne’s indigenous plants offer remarkable beauty and resilience. For help deciding between natives and exotics, see our guide on native vs exotic plants for Melbourne gardens:
Grasses and Strappy Plants
- Lomandra: Multiple varieties for different conditions
- Dianella: Blue-flowered beauties for shade and sun
- Poa: Native tussock grasses for natural texture
Flowering Shrubs
- Grevillea: Spectacular flowers in diverse forms
- Westringia: Coastal rosemary for hedging and structure
- Correa: Winter-flowering natives for shade
Specimen Trees
- Eucalyptus: Selected species for garden scale
- Acacia: Fast-growing options with seasonal flower displays
- Banksia: Sculptural forms with dramatic flower spikes
Exotic Plant Selection
For certain aesthetics and conditions, carefully chosen exotics perform beautifully:
Mediterranean Species
Perfectly suited to Melbourne’s dry summers:
- Olives, lavender, and rosemary
- Ornamental grasses like Miscanthus
- Succulents and drought-tolerant perennials
Japanese-Influenced Gardens
Creating contemplative, serene spaces:
- Japanese maples for autumn colour
- Bamboos for screening and movement
- Azaleas and camellias for shade conditions
Tropical-Look Gardens
Lush, resort-style planting for protected sites:
- Palms for vertical drama
- Bird of paradise and other bold foliage
- Layered underplanting for jungle effect
Specimen Tree Selection
A well-chosen tree can transform a garden. For detailed guidance on selecting the perfect tree, read our guide on choosing specimen trees for Melbourne properties:
Selection Considerations
- Ultimate size appropriate to space
- Canopy spread and shade provision
- Root system and proximity to structures
- Seasonal features (flowers, fruit, autumn colour)
- Growth rate and establishment requirements
Sourcing Quality Stock
We source specimen trees from specialist nurseries, selecting:
- Well-structured, healthy plants
- Appropriate root ball size for successful establishment
- Plants with character that enhance your garden immediately
Installation and Establishment
Proper planting ensures tree success:
- Appropriate hole preparation and soil amendment
- Staking and guying where required
- Deep watering systems for establishment
- Ongoing care guidance
Garden Bed Preparation
Successful planting begins below the surface:
Soil Assessment
Understanding your existing soil conditions and requirements for amendment.
Soil Improvement
- Organic matter addition for structure and fertility
- pH adjustment where necessary
- Drainage improvement for waterlogged sites
Mulching
Quality mulch provides multiple benefits:
- Moisture retention reducing watering needs
- Weed suppression minimising maintenance
- Soil temperature moderation
- Aesthetic finish to garden beds
Planting Services
Complete Garden Planting
Full implementation of planting designs:
- Supply of all plant material
- Professional installation
- Mulching and initial watering
- Establishment care guidance
Garden Refresh
Revitalising tired gardens:
- Assessment of existing plantings
- Removal of unsuitable plants
- Strategic additions and replacements
- Mulch renewal
Maintenance Guidance
Setting you up for ongoing success:
- Plant care instructions specific to your garden
- Watering schedules for establishment
- Pruning timing and techniques
- Seasonal task calendars
Contact us to discuss how expert planting can bring your garden to life with colour, texture, and year-round interest.
