Thursday, July 10, 2025
EditorialEditors editorial

Farewell message from the Editor

This issue marks exactly seventeen years since Hort Journal Australia began in July 2008. I have been the Editor from the beginning. However, it is now time for me to turn the page to a new chapter in my life. It is difficult to summarise my experience in this small editorial.… Continue reading

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EditorialIndustry Event

Propagation for conservation

By Karen Smith

The 53rd International Plant Producers Society (IPPS) conference ‘Propagation for conservation’ was held recently in Cairns at the Crystalbrook Riley Hotel with an extensive list of speakers and activities. Here is a snapshot of the event.

President, Clive Larkman, president of IPPS opened the conference and local MP Bree James welcomed the delegates to Cairns extolling the virtues of far North Queensland for business and tourism.… Continue reading

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EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

Young Botanist

Bringing science and art together for a rich learning experience

Megan Hirst and Claire Mosley

Science, education and art can be integrated in numerous ways, and this has been demonstrated often with reference to teaching methods, curriculum, and school-based projects. Applying science and art to teaching requires a positive, supportive environment that assists schools by developing a rich learning experience as well as personalising a student’s experience through meaningful and engaging content. TheContinue reading

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NutrientPlant Nutrition

Stressed plants? Kelp is on the way!

By Gabrielle Stannus

Living on an island state, I am never too far away from the coast, and therefore seaweed. Likewise, working in the horticultural industry, I regularly encounter seaweed in extract form when applying biostimulants at planting time. Up to now, I have only given a little thought as to how seaweed works to stimulate plant responses to stress.Continue reading

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EditorialIndustry Event

Equipment and services benefit landscapers

By John Fitzsimmons

Landscape design, installation, and maintenance involve creativity, materials, equipment, and skill sets provided as a service. As such, its enterprises also need complementary support on the supply side for materials, equipment and business services. This was all present at the annual Landscape Show 2025, presented recently at Sandown Racecourse in Melbourne by Landscaping Victoria.Continue reading

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Plant PalettePlants

Plug-and-play plants for neglected sites

By Daniel Fuller

Mass planting beds are favourable from a nursery and plant breeder perspective because less diversity will often equate to larger profit margins, even though they can be risky by having “all your eggs in one basket.” They are also easy for specifiers to use in designs, because it takes less research to source a single variety of plant that tolerates site conditions and can be replicated throughout large beds.… Continue reading

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Green InfrastructureLandscape

Designing with confidence:

Eliminating fear of green infrastructure in the built environment

By Michael Casey

In recent years, green infrastructure has become a buzzword in our industry and for good reason. I believe plants, with their remarkable ability to deliver multiple benefits, will be one of our most effective tools in mitigating the impacts of climate change.Continue reading

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Business FileEditorial

A business lesson from a master

By John Corban

Charles M Schwab was a master at managing and inspiring employees. Let me share his simple but powerful management approach to see how you can apply it today.

By John Corban

Schwab, one of the world’s most successful business leaders during the last century, ran a U.S.… Continue reading

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Business FileEditorial

Proposed tax on superannuation balances over $3 million

By Tara Cuddihy

The proposed tax on superannuation balances over $3 million has raised concerns, especially for Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) holding non-residential properties like farming land. With a focus on taxing unrealised gains, the measure could significantly impact the agricultural sector and create liquidity and double taxation issues.Continue reading

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EnvironmentEnvironment & Sustainability

Australia’s iconic Bottle Trees and their enduring presence

By Michael Elgey

The genus Brachychiton, part of the Malvaceae family, comprises around 30 species which are endemic to Australia and one species native to Papua New Guinea. These trees have become horticultural icons, admired for their distinctive forms, adaptability, and spectacular seasonal displays.Continue reading

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