Val’s tropical garden a part of the heart

When Val Honeywood moved into her Coonarr property 22 years ago she had her sights set on creating a tropical rainforest.

After growing up in a family passionate about gardening, Val obtained her Certificate in Horticulture and before she knew it, her plant collection grew into the thousands as her outdoor area began to grow.

“There were no real gardens only some young shrubs, eucalypts and palms,” she said.

“This was a real challenge as my main interest in plants at that time was tropical foliage.

 “I set about creating a tropical rainforest with all the lovely colourful foliage plants like Crotons, Aralias and I had a very large collection of Cordylines.”

The shade houses are a favourite for Val, who she said the gardens were a part of her.

“My happy place is spending time in my shade houses and I love to wander about my gardens late in the day and spot something new,” she said.

“I also love the wildlife and so many birds- their calls are pretty much all I hear all day.”

With victory there was also loss, Val said for several years the garden thrived on regular wet seasons and bore water until periods of drought struck.

Succulents made their way to the forefront with their hearty nature after the dreams of a lush tropical garden were dashed.

“The recent drought proved that not only succulents are drought hardy, but my Bromeliads have also bounced back with all the lovely rain of late,” Val said.

“I did the huge job of repotting thousands into larger pots in the hope of retaining moisture for longer and happy to say it worked.”

The local green thumb said she loved collaborating with gardeners throughout the region.

“I am a member of several garden clubs in Bundaberg and bromeliad societies,” Val said. 

“I enjoy the friendships and interactions of other gardeners of which there are many in our beautiful region.

Last week's garden: Kerry’s colourful oasis a dream come true