About Elissa

Ontario based garden designer Elissa Astorino becomes the first ever Canadian landscape designer to be invited and accepted to design a garden for Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show 2024, the worlds second largest flower show.

Elissa studied Ornamental Horticulture at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture. During her time as a student, Elissa designed annual and perennial displays for The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and one of North Americas most distinguished rose gardens.

Elissa has worked with several award-winning landscape companies in Australia and is a member of the Australian Institute of Horticulture, where she serves on the Future Voices Council.

Latest News and Updates

  • The Landscaping Podcast
    Check out this episode on The Landscaping Podcast where Joel Barnett and I talk about my experience at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show and my journey back to Australia to work with Yards Pty. Ltd. and Semken Landscaping Pty Ltd . I really enjoyed this conversation with Joel and I hope you do… Read more: The Landscaping Podcast
  • September Club
    Last week, I had the pleasure of working on the outdoor spaces for the AFL and Toyota Australia‘s exclusive ‘September Club’ at the MCG. The stunning planting display themed ‘Urban Wild,’ was beautifully designed by VividDesigns , blending nature with modern urban elements. The project came together through the exceptional teamwork of Vivid Designs ,… Read more: September Club
  • Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne
    I had the pleasure of visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne, where I was impressed by the diverse range of gardens on display. Some of the plants were familiar from home in Canada, while others were completely new. One highlight was The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, an incredible space designed for children… Read more: Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne
  • HortInsights Magazine Spring 2024
    The spring edition of HortInsight, the journal by the Australian Institute of Horticulture , is now out! In this issue, I share insights from my 3-month work placement with Yards Pty. Ltd. and reflect on the valuable lessons I’ve learned during my time there. A big thank you to Alan Burnell , Dianne Wallyn ,… Read more: HortInsights Magazine Spring 2024
  • Experience With Yards
    My time over the last three months with Yards Pty. Ltd. in Brisbane, Australia, has been truly remarkable. Coming from Canada’s Niagara Parks School of Horticulture, I’ve had the opportunity to channel my passion and expertise into various gardens while gaining deep insights into the subtropical horticulture of this region The Yards team is incredibly… Read more: Experience With Yards