IN THE GARDEN

Visit landscape designer Michael Bates’s mountain retreat; plus seeds and garden furnishings you’ll love.

Follow Georgina on Instagram @theplanthunter, or send garden news to austcountrystyle@bauer-media.com.au

HOME SOWN

Spring is the perfect time to begin planting seeds for summer crops, such as tomatoes, basil and eggplants. Need a little help to get started? Head to the Little Veggie Patch Co. online store for an excellent bunch of heirloom herb and vegetable seeds, $5 a packet. (03) 9531 5594; littleveggiepatchco.com.au

PERFECT PITCH

Get the kids outside and sheltered from the sun in this glorious Ted tent, $348, from Native Swinson. Designed by artist Kate Swinson, who grew up in Tabletop, NSW, it’s made from hand-printed 100 per cent cotton canvas and features Kate’s gorgeous gum leaf illustrations. The tent is portable, easy to assemble and can be set up indoors or out — for little and big kids alike. 0408 624 893; nativeswinson.com.au

save the date

The Millthorpe Garden Ramble is a great excuse to visit the gorgeous town of Millthorpe, near Orange in Central West NSW, and delve into its exquisite gardens. While you’re there, take a walk down the main street and visit one of the cafés or shops in this thriving village. Gardens open November 3–4, from 10am–4pm. It costs $25 to access all 10 gardens or $5 per garden. 0419 431 785; millthorpevillage.com.au