National Water Week | 19–25 October 2026
Water is one of our most precious resources, and the plants we choose for our gardens can make a difference to how efficiently we use it.
This National Water Week, we're celebrating the remarkable diversity of Australian native plants and exploring how understanding their growing requirements can help us create more water-wise gardens.
From the intricate flowers of kangaroo paws to the papery blooms of everlasting daisies, Australian native plants offer extraordinary beauty. But more than that, with fascinating life history and adaptations to their environment, there's an opportunity to learn the science and ecology, and connect more deeply with the unique and diverse species and environments we have in Australia.
1. Plants adapted to their environments
Australia's diverse climates have shaped an incredible range of plant adaptations.
Some native species thrive in dry, exposed environments, while others naturally grow in moist forests, wetlands or along waterways. Their requirements reflect the conditions in which they evolved.
Depending on the species, adaptations that help plants manage water availability may include small or tough leaves, protective leaf surfaces and root systems suited to their environment.
Many Australian native plants can thrive with relatively little supplementary watering once established in suitable conditions.
However, not all Australian native plants are drought-tolerant. Choosing species suited to your local climate, soil, drainage and rainfall is essential.
2. Three simple ways to create a more water-wise garden
You don't need to redesign your entire garden to make a difference.
Choose plants suited to your conditions
Consider your local rainfall, soil type, drainage and available sunlight before selecting plants. Choosing species suited to their growing environment can reduce the need for supplementary watering.
Protect your soil
Suitable mulch helps reduce moisture loss from the soil surface. Keep mulch away from plant stems and choose a material appropriate for your garden.
Water thoughtfully
Check soil moisture before watering, account for recent rainfall and direct water towards the root zone. Newly planted natives still need appropriate watering while they establish.
Small, informed decisions can help you use water more efficiently while keeping your garden healthy.
3. Growing native flowers is an opportunity to learn
What happens when this seed germinates? How different is this seed from that seed? Why do some plants thrive in dry conditions while others need more moisture? How does a seed or plant respond to different environment?
Growing Australian native plants from seed gives us an opportunity to explore these questions firsthand.
Observing germination, recording growth and watching a plant develop over time can reveal fascinating insights into plant biology.
For children and adults alike, a garden can become a living classroom — encouraging curiosity, observation and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.
And the rewards aren't just educational. Many Australian native flowers are beautiful additions to gardens, and can be grown for cut flowers, dried arrangements and botanical crafts.
4. Grow, learn and connect with Australian native flowers
At Aquila Hills Australian Natives, growing native plants is about more than creating a beautiful garden. It's about discovering the science behind the species and developing a closer connection with Australian flora.
Our Monthly Discovery Kits bring together seeds, botanical species profiles and practical growing information to help you explore a new Australian native flower each month.
The collection of beautiful native flowers has been carefully curated with an emphasis on accessible growing experiences, with relatively reliable germination under a range of climate tolerances. Once established, many of the species in our collection are hardy and drought-tolerant.
This National Water Week, take the first step towards a more water-wise garden. Discover Australian native flowers and learn how choosing the right plants can help you grow beautifully with less water.
Grow • Learn • Connect
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