Growing Beyond Borders
How working abroad can transform your landscaping career
By Elissa Astorino
As a recent graduate of the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture, I’ve always been captivated by the beauty of plant life and well-designed gardens. My journey took an exciting turn when I accepted an incredible opportunity to work in Australia, immersing myself in a world of diverse horticultural practices. Working with renowned firms like Yards, in Brisbane, and Semken Landscaping, in Melbourne, I participated in a variety of high-end residential and commercial projects that had me thinking about landscape design in whole new ways.
By gaining international experience, I’ve developed new insights on challenges that are unique to Australian climates, observed emerging trends, learned new techniques and vastly expanded my horticultural knowledge. In this article, I’ll share my reflections on how working abroad can inspire new perspectives and develop a richer skill set.
Plant diversity
One of the most rewarding aspects of working abroad was the chance to deepen my understanding of plant species that are less common in Ontario, particularly tropical and subtropical varieties. During my time with Yards in Brisbane, I was privileged to maintain high-end gardens showcasing various styles, including tropical, coastal, rainforest and Australian native gardens. These unique experiences allowed me to see the full potential of tropical plants when grown outdoors, as opposed to their more limited life as houseplants in colder climates.
Working with these plants taught me not only their aesthetic qualities but also their specific cultural requirements. I learned the optimal times and techniques for pruning, how to identify different species and the best ways to care for them in a variety of conditions. For example, I became adept at recognizing which plants thrived in the humid Brisbane climate, understanding the importance of soil composition and how to adjust maintenance routines accordingly. From a design perspective, I learned that some plants such as Thaumatophyllum xanadu tend to stain hardscape surfaces, so they should not be planted along walkways and driveways. Additionally, plant selection such as cacti or thorny shrubs, can effectively enhance security while contributing to an attractive garden aesthetic. These plants serve as natural deterrents, creating a lush boundary without the harsh look of steel fencing. By strategically placing them along property lines, you can achieve a beautiful yet functional landscape that combines safety and style. I can apply these lessons to my career in Canada when designing and maintaining gardens.
In challenging coastal gardens, I saw firsthand the importance of selecting the right plant for the right environment. In this case, that meant choosing plants for their tolerance to both wind and salt spray. This knowledge expanded my plant palette and provided me with the skills to design resilient landscapes that can withstand the challenges of their surroundings.
One of my favourite projects involved a rainforest garden that presented unique challenges. Here, I encountered various pests, such as bush turkeys, which are notorious for digging through gardens to create nesting mounds. To address this, we strategically placed rocks and wire mesh along pathways. This experience taught me not only about pest management but also about the interplay between native wildlife and garden design. While I encountered more familiar pests like aphids and scale, the methods for controlling them differed due to varying regulations. In Australia, regulations regarding pesticides and herbicides are generally less strict than in Canada, which presents both opportunities and challenges. I’ve learned to adapt pest management strategies to comply with local practices while still maintaining a commitment to environmental responsibility by using more organic treatments.
Regional materials
Another aspect of my time in Australia has been the opportunity to work with a variety of materials used in landscaping. In Brisbane, sandstone is a popular choice for hardscaping, primarily due to its abundance. Its natural beauty makes it an ideal option for pathways, retaining walls and decorative features. On the other hand, in Melbourne, I encountered bluestone, which is a textured volcanic rock commonly used in gardens.
Understanding these regional differences in materials has broadened my perspective on design options and aesthetics. For example, the choice of stone can significantly impact the overall look and feel of a garden, influencing how it compliments the surrounding environment. When designing gardens, it’s important to incorporate materials that align with the garden's theme while being locally sourced. Using native materials not only enhances the aesthetic but also promotes sustainability and helps the garden harmonize with its surroundings.
Emerging trends
Through my work in various gardens across Australia, I observed emerging trends that differed from those typically seen in Ontario. The extended warm season in Brisbane has led to the popularity of outdoor living spaces. It is common to see not only barbeque areas but also fully equipped outdoor kitchens and living areas designed for entertaining and relaxing with family and friends. This emphasis on outdoor living reflects an appreciation for the natural environment and an inclination to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. While Canada has a colder climate, I believe the trend of outdoor living can still be embraced. Natural swim ponds can serve as refreshing spots for swimming and enjoying warm summer days, while in winter, they can transform into beautiful ice-skating rinks.
The demand for pools in warmer climates also requires distinct fencing regulations. In Australia, a dedicated fence surrounding the pool area is typically required — even if there is already a perimeter fence around the house. This enhances safety, particularly for young children. To maintain a sense of openness and allow an unobstructed view of the pool area, I’ve noticed many Australian pool fences are made of glass.
I’ve also witnessed a trend toward higher front yard fences and enhanced privacy. In contrast to the open front yards often seen in Canadian suburbs, many homes in Brisbane and Melbourne feature tall privacy fencing or dense hedges, providing a sense of security. This shift in design reflects a growing desire for private outdoor retreats.
Bringing it home
My experiences in Australia have been truly rewarding. As I reflect on my time there, I feel grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to learn and grow. Collaborating with companies like Yards and Semken Landscaping has shown me the importance of working alongside passionate teams who are eager to share their expertise and love for the industry. Not only did I learn from those I worked with, but I also had the opportunity to share my experiences and knowledge from Canada. It’s rewarding to both learn from others and provide insight into the different styles and methods of gardening from my home country.
Although Canada has a colder climate, knowledge of tropical and subtropical plants remains important in the horticulture industry. We frequently encounter tropical plantings in shopping centres, offices and indoor gardens. By working directly with these plants in their natural environments, I can apply what I’ve learned to effectively design and maintain these indoor spaces.
I strongly recommend seeking opportunities to work abroad to fellow landscapers, whether you're involved in construction, groundskeeping, design or another area of the green industry. The world is so diverse, and there is much to gain from immersing yourself in different cultures and ways of living.
