Jocelyn Bennett of Earthcore Landscapes took out the Gold Award in the Boutique Garden category for her design, Re-Set, at the 2025 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. Congratulations Jocelyn!
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Describe the garden in 5 words.
A Native Sanctuary for All.
What was the question you were asked most often?
Definitely, ‘What plant is this?’ And they were always asking about the Thomasia discolour.
What piece of feedback will you always remember?
My favourite piece of feedback was ‘I loved it. I got goosebumps looking at your garden. And I don’t even like native plants’. I love that I was able to affect an audience that wouldn’t necessarily lean towards native plants.
What was an obstacle you had to overcome and how did you do it?
Plant sourcing was one of the largest obstacles for two reasons: a) trying to source as many plants on loan or sponsorship as possible to keep costs low, and b) finding good specimens that are available in March, which is not easy for Native Australian plants!
To overcome this, I adjusted the planting plan slightly to suit what was available to me for this garden and asked everyone for leads or availability on plants. This turned out to be a highlight in the process as it lead me to connect with so many amazing growers and passionate plant people!
Would you do it again?
Absolutely. The Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show has an air about it that is entirely contagious and exciting.
The stage is yours – what do you want to say?
Participating in the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show was such a wonderful (and whirlwind) experience. It enabled me to meet and work alongside so many incredible people. I would highly recommend anyone get involved in whatever capacity you’re able to. I’m so proud to be a part of such a wonderful, creative, and welcoming industry.