TO THE INDIGENOUS PLANTS OF THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA

What Are Indigenous Plants?

Species that are part of the original flora of a particular area or
region are termed indigenous. In this booklet indigenous plants are those
that occur naturally on the Mornington Peninsula and any plants propagated
from them.

It is estimated that less than seven per cent of the original vegetation
of the Mornington Peninsula is left as viable remnants. Protection and
enhancement of these natural features are vital.

Why Use Indigenous Plants?

By choosing indigenous plant species for gardens and retaining natural
vegetation wherever possible, it is possible to create habitat for local
fauna and help protect the Mornington Peninsula’s natural heritage.

Indigenous plants will:

* Attract native wildlife to your garden and provide valuable habitat

* Grow easily, as local species are well adapted to local soils and
climatic conditions;

* Help maintain the natural balance so reducing pest outbreaks;

Generally require no watering once established.

Where Can Indigenous Plants Be Obtained?

Under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act it is illegal to remove indigenous
plants or seeds from reserves or roadsides without a permit. There are
several nurseries that specialize in the supply of Peninsula indigenous
plants.

Cultivation

1. Planting

Once the plants have been obtained, they should be planted out as soon
as possible. Soak the plants thoroughly before planting to reduce moisture
stress and wind damage. Ideally, planting should be done on cool days with
light winds. The hole to take the plant should be a little deeper than
the container. If the soil is dry, fill the hole with water and allow it
to drain away before planting.

Gently ease the plant from its container and only tease out the roots
if they are tangled and matted. Gently supporting the root and stem, place
the plant and fill the hole. Water immediately to displace air pockets
and help settle the soil. Staking is generally not necessary.

2. Mulching

Mulch is a layer of organic or inorganic material placed

on the soil around plantings. Mulch will help:

* reduce weed competition;

* conserve soil moisture;

* reduce soil erosion;

* add organic matter to the soil, and

* improve its structure.

Many types of mulch are available and all have their advantages and
disadvantages. Careful selection and effective placement of mulch can modify
the environment around the plant and im.prove its chance of survival and
subsequent growth. Mulch is most effective if applied just after planting.
Further information on mulching and planting may be obtained from your
Council’s Parks and Gardens Department.

Glossary

Alternate leaves

Opposite leaves

Aril:      Fleshy outgrowth of seed, which
may surround it, as in some wattles

Calcareous:      Describing soils with a relatively
high amount of limestone, or chalk, making them alkaline

Koori:      Australian Aborigine

Procumbent:      A branch that grows along
the ground without setting roots