URGENT UPDATE: Lisa Passmore’s stunning garden in Kalamunda, Western Australia, is not just a visual delight; it embodies a critical movement toward sustainable gardening practices. As spring emerges, her garden reflects a passionate commitment to plant diversity and environmental health, making it a must-see for anyone interested in eco-friendly practices.
New reports confirm that Passmore, a third-generation horticulturist and executive officer of the Nursery and Garden Industry Association of WA, is leading the charge in promoting gardening as a means to foster community wellbeing and resilience. “I am committed to have-a-go gardening, recognising the benefits extend far beyond getting your hands dirty,” she states.
Her private sanctuary, designed with permaculture principles, highlights the urgent need for awareness around soil health and biodiversity. “I’m fascinated by emerging research linking soil microbiome diversity and human health,” Passmore adds, emphasizing the critical role gardens play in our lives.
As spring unfolds, Passmore’s garden comes alive with color and life. Bird-attracting water features and vibrant plantings invite a variety of wildlife, including a recent sighting of a bandicoot. “Flowers matter. They bring joy and feed the system — attracting pollinators and beneficial insects that keep my garden thriving,” she passionately states.
Curved pathways meander through her property, revealing hidden corners filled with citrus trees, vegetables, and herbs thriving in innovative raised beds. The garden not only serves as a private retreat but also stands as a testament to the worldwide trend of “wild and free” gardening. Spring weeds are intentionally left to flourish, contributing to soil health and biodiversity.
Passmore, who also teaches gardening workshops, encourages others to explore the edible qualities of these often-overlooked plants. “Weed eating comes with a warning — precise plant identification is essential,” she cautions. Chickweed and purslane, known for their culinary uses, are left to grow, showcasing the garden’s dual role as a food source and an educational platform.
The garden’s landscape is a vibrant tapestry, shifting from the cherry-red blooms of camellias to the bright hues of WA native chorizema. Soon, alstroemeria will fill the neighboring bed with summer colors, creating a visual feast that attracts pollinators.
Lisa Passmore’s mission is clear: she advocates for planting more trees, not just for aesthetics but for habitat and cooling benefits in urban areas. “I’m a strong advocate for planting more trees at home and across our suburbs,” she states, emphasizing the urgent need for more greenery in our landscapes.
The emotional impact of her garden extends beyond its beauty. It tells a layered story of her family’s gardening traditions, respect for cultural aesthetics, and commitment to permaculture as a sustainable lifestyle. Her efforts inspire others to engage in gardening, making it a source of joy and wellbeing while contributing positively to the planet.
As the Perth Garden Show approaches, Passmore’s garden stands ready to inspire visitors with its message of sustainability, creativity, and connection to the earth. This spring, her garden is not only a display of horticultural skill but also an urgent reminder of the power of plants in our lives.
For those interested in exploring sustainable gardening practices, Lisa Passmore’s garden represents a blueprint for how we can cultivate our spaces to benefit ourselves and the environment. The time to embrace these principles is NOW, and her garden is leading the way.
