Some plants from the Mediterranean region, Madeira and the Canary Islands thrive in dry sunny spots and bloom in late winter in Sydney.

This plant family has some exotic members, and they are well suited to our climate.

An afternoon visiting gardens brings delight and inspiration.

A visit to a friend's garden reminded me of the value of self-seeding spring annuals.

A bunch of flowers with some green carnations reminded me of the fascination of green blooms.

We have endured one of the hottest weeks on record in our gardens, but plants have still provided solace.

A stroll in the garden reveals many plants with attractive winter foliage.

A trip to the country shows the tenacity of some tough plants.

I have always loved poppies and poppy-like flowers.

Plants I have grown from seed have a special cachet.

Summer annuals can provide brilliant colour.

Many annuals can live on.

Many self-seeding annuals bloom now.

Potted colour comes to the rescue!

Spring annuals bring colour and interest.

Blue flowers for shaded spots!

These will provide colour and form in your garden every summer.