Using Indigenous Plants In Your Garden

The aim of the ELZ provisions is to maintain the ecological integrity of the Bend
of Islands bush. The flora of the area is a very important part of the total
ecosystem as animal life and soil retention depend on it. The conservation of the
flora is best ensured by planting species which are indigenous, that is native,
to this area.

Weeds

One of the greatest threats to the natural bushland is invasion by weeds which
compete with the native plants and can ultimately replace them. This alters the
habitat which may no longer support the native animals.

Most weeds are exotic plants which have been introduced as garden plants and have
become naturalized in the bush. Local examples include Watsonia, Shell Grass,
Radiata Pine and Boneseed.

Australian native plants can also become 'Environmental Weeds'. Species from one
part of Australia can outcompete the native species in other areas. Examples
particular to our area are Cootamundra Wattle, Bluebell Climber, Sallow Wattle,
Hillock Bush and Sweet Pittosporum.

Much of Australia's native vegetation has been altered by weed invasion, and
ecologists are concerned at the threat to what remains. The Bend of Islands bush
is a relatively weed-free sample of Box-Stringybark Open Forest and by keeping
it intact we are helping to preserve a sample of this type of vegetation
association.

Ecological Balance

By planting only species which are indigenous to this area, the chances of
survival of all of our insects, lizards, birds and mammals will be greatly
enhanced.

Many native plants and animals in natural areas such as ours have evolved to
survive in A complex system of interdependence and mutual support. Change to any
one aspect of the ecosystem can threaten the livelihood of other species of
plants or animals. The Eltham Copper Butterfly and the Orange Bellied Parrot are
good examples of this complex interdependence. The Eltham Copper Butterfly has a
specific relationship with a species of ant and the Sweet Bursaria Bush. Destroy
this bush, and the butterfly disappears. The Orange Bellied Parrot spends a short
time in Victoria each year. Because of the destruction of certain plants in our
native grasslands and sedge-swamps, the species is threatened with extinction.

Advantages of Landscaping with Indigenous Plants

Indigenous plants are naturally adapted to the soil and climate of the area, thus
plant care such as watering, fertilization and the need for insecticides is
reduced to a minimum.

Availability of Local Plants
Local species are best obtained from a source which uses cuttings and seeds from
this area. BICA has a limited supply of plants that have been propagated from 
local stock and which are available for sale. Contact Carol Bonny 9712 0648