Nestled in the heart of Ascot, Western Australia, lies a remarkable backyard sanctuary that perfectly blends creativity with nature. This is the personal oasis of Rae Burton, the charismatic radio garden host and curious creative who has transformed her outdoor space into a living masterpiece.
A Creative Haven in Suburban Perth
Rae Burton, known to many as the voice behind popular gardening segments on ABC Radio Perth, has cultivated more than just plants in her Ascot property. Her garden serves as both a personal retreat and an experimental ground where creativity flourishes alongside native flora. The space reflects her philosophy that gardens should be living, breathing extensions of our personalities rather than perfectly manicured showpieces.
The garden spans the entire backyard of her Ascot home, featuring a carefully curated collection of both native Australian plants and exotic species that thrive in Perth's Mediterranean climate. What makes this space particularly special is how Burton has arranged different "rooms" within the garden, each with its own character and purpose.
Sustainable Practices and Native Focus
Burton's approach to gardening emphasizes sustainability and water-wise practices crucial for Western Australia's often dry conditions. She has incorporated numerous native species that require minimal watering once established, demonstrating how beautiful and diverse Australian gardens can be while remaining environmentally conscious.
The garden features several distinct zones, including a productive vegetable patch, ornamental flowering sections, and quiet contemplation areas. Burton has skillfully used height variations, texture contrasts, and strategic planting to create depth and interest throughout the space. Her use of local materials and repurposed items adds character while reducing the garden's environmental footprint.
As a radio host who regularly shares gardening advice with listeners, Burton practices what she preaches. Her garden serves as a real-world testing ground for the techniques and plant recommendations she shares on air. This hands-on approach ensures her advice is practical and proven in conditions similar to those her listeners experience.
Beyond Gardening: A Space for Creativity
The Ascot garden represents more than just horticultural achievement for Burton. It functions as an outdoor studio where she develops content for her radio segments and explores various creative projects. The natural surroundings provide inspiration for her work as both a broadcaster and visual artist.
Burton describes her garden as "a constantly evolving project" that reflects her curiosity about the natural world. She enjoys experimenting with plant combinations and observing how different species interact over time. This experimental approach has resulted in a garden that feels organic and authentic rather than overly designed.
The space also serves as an educational tool, with Burton often hosting small groups to share knowledge about sustainable gardening practices. Her passion for connecting people with nature extends beyond her radio work into these intimate garden gatherings where participants can see, touch, and experience the principles she advocates.
What makes Rae Burton's Ascot garden truly remarkable is how it embodies her belief that gardens should engage all the senses and evolve with their caretakers. It stands as testament to the idea that with creativity and care, even suburban backyards can become extraordinary natural sanctuaries that nourish both people and wildlife.
