What got you inspired to be a gardener?

Pam was a life long gardener, knowledgeable plants woman, creating beautiful spaces and places for people and birds at each of our family homes. John helped in the practical side of the garden's development, building garden beds, mowing, pruning and moving plants under Pam's guidance.

When Pam and John, moved into town (2011) from an extensive country garden (at Woodlea, Cathkin), little remained of the original garden (apart from the Chinese Elm, Camelia (near the front gate) and the variegated Pittosporum.

Pam and John did the ground work for the new garden, building new beds which were filled with cuttings and direct transplants from 'Woodlea', gifts from friends and treasures found during visits to nurseries far and wide.

'Alukea' was created by Pam as a garden for all seasons. John is dedicated to maintaining Pam's wonderful legacy which holds so many special memories for her family and many friends.

Salvias, sages and other dry climate perennials are complimented by roses and other colourful shrubs. Native plants are interspersed throughout the garden, attracting many birds, whose songs are enjoyed from dawn to dusk. Quirky garden sculptures, collected over many years have found homes within the garden.

The shady Chinese elm and nearby fountain, makes the back deck and garden a perfect retreat during summer.